There are corners of our world where luxury, alchemy, art, and functionality intersect. Those corners do not exist in department stores or chains, rather, in art and furniture gallery spaces where the work of international independent artists is displayed. Often sold at a rather high price point, these gallery pieces seamlessly integrate functionality and artistic flair, providing a room with an unforgettable, chic focal point. Here we start with three of them. Over time, we’ll keep you updated as more favorites pop onto the scene.
Gallery owner and alchemist, Antoine Vignault, is the visionary behind OΔK Gallery, curating works of art with the goal of breaking with industry tradition. He creates a world of mixed-media, contemporary artwork, mixing furniture and accessories with sculpture and photography. OΔK Gallery offers an opportunity for talented artists who embody the gallery’s unique perspective to showcase their work. Each creation shown at OΔK Gallery must evoke a feeling of magic through sacred geometry and alchemy.
Our favorite piece currently available at OΔK Gallery is this piece titled Ether by Vincent Poujardieu, the perfect focal point for a minimal space. Pair with clean lines and sharp geometric angles.
Best known for his work in luxury fashion, Ralph Pucci International began to incorporate furniture in 1989. This unexpected change was catalyzed by a mannequin, created by Andrée Putman, famed French interior designer. Putman was insistent that Pucci represent her furniture line in the US, catapulting Ralph Pucci, a contemporary design and art showroom into the world of luxury furniture. Now, he represents notable international furniture designers, while supporting emerging talent, which has led to a place on the board with Pratt Institute of Design.
The very definition of an artist blending luxury and functionality is Herve Van der Straeten, represented by Pucci on the East Coast in the U.S. Van der Straeten’s furniture combines exquisite lines, perfect proportions, and contrasting materials. His iconic style has a unique allure and an overall sense of elegance.
Currently, Pucci’s gallery holds two of our favorite Van der Straeten’s pieces.
The first, Buffet Trace exemplifies Van der Straeten’s unique style. Stark lines and contrasting, complementary colors give this buffet a sense of opulence, yet it remains approachable in functionality and form. This piece would work well in a luxury minimalism modern room, perfect for a dining area or office, complemented by minimal, streamlined furniture and lighting fixtures.
The second, Armoire Kimono, uses stark, yet neutral, contrasting color, incorporating marble in a unique and surprising way. This piece is versatile and can be worked into minimal design schemes or luxury modern schemes with stark lines and pronounced articulation.
Founded in 1997 by Zesty Meyers and Evan Snyderman, R&Company is dedicated to representing innovative, impeccably crafted work by a distinguished group of designers. Meyers and Snyderman’s shared goal of preservation of 20th and 21st-century design is clear in their exquisitely curated collection. Meyers and Snyderman have become synonymous with the discovery and promotion of new talent.
Currently, our top pick at R & Company is Bench Space, by well-known designer, Johnny Swing. Though industrial at first glance, the texture and sensual lines of this piece create a surprisingly soft look, enhanced by its uniformity. This elegant piece would work well in the entryway of an industrial space and would play well against modern furniture and accessories.
Looking at luxury furniture as art can change your perspective entirely. Instead of simply providing function, these investment pieces often act as the focal point for a room. A design concept can start with a furniture masterpiece and flow from that inspiration. Alternately, it can be the last piece added as an epiphany, capping off the ending phase of a project. Regardless, such artful and highly aesthetically defined pieces make a statement in any space or environment.
To find out how you can incorporate gallery furniture into your home or commercial space, schedule your consultation here or call us directly at 212-271-0087.
