Discover How Alyssa Kapito Transformed Her Upper East Side Home into a Design Masterpiece

A Designer's Vision in the Heart of the Upper East Side

In a grand 1920s building, AD100 designer Alyssa Kapito has meticulously transformed her own family home, prioritizing authenticity and visual interest throughout the space. The living room features vintage wood-and-cane chairs, a stunning Philip Arctander shearling Clam chair, and a custom sofa upholstered in Dedar linen. Decorative elements include a parchment-veneered coffee table and an artwork by Gary Simmons adorning the walls.

Transforming a Challenging Space

Kapito saw the potential in the original apartment, which boasted a maze of smaller rooms and odd proportions. She combined three small public rooms into an expansive living room that also incorporates a library. The home is flooded with natural light, thanks to its 11-foot-three-inch ceilings and oversized windows, which she expertly maintained during the renovation.

Showcasing Renowned Designs

Kapito's home is filled with pieces from renowned designers such as Jean Prouvé, François-Xavier Lalanne, and Jacques Adnet. She emphasizes the importance of authentication, having researched every historic home on the Upper East Side to inspire her design decisions. The home features bespoke details, including custom hardware and paneling reminiscent of Jean-Michel Frank.

A Warm and Inviting Atmosphere

Known for her ability to create intimate spaces, Kapito's home is a reflection of her social circle, which includes influential figures in the art and fashion worlds. The designer aims to make her space feel warm, disarming, and inviting, a quality noted by her close friend Isabel Wilkinson Schor.

A New Design Project on the Horizon

Kapito is set to open a brick-and-mortar gallery near her apartment, featuring a mix of fashion, art, and design. This project will showcase works inspired by her creative friends and collaborators.

The Balance of Old and New

Reflecting on her design process, Kapito aims to create spaces that inspire curiosity, saying she loves the tension between new and old, which brings a fresher perspective to her work. Her signature style involves breathing new life into timeworn pieces, encouraging visitors to appreciate the stories behind them.