The architect and designer takes us through his graceful mid-century modern Manhattan duplex.
Poul Kjaerholm prototype chair.Mindel holds a prototype three-legged aluminum chair by Poul Kjaerholm, the mid-century Danish designer who took the machine-centric mantra of the International Style and imprinted it with a human touch. The lightweight piece is made of metal, but its sinuous lines give it astonishing grace and make it a comfortable seat—rare for a chair from this period. “Kjaerholm came from the boatbuilders’ and cabinetmakers’ guilds, so he could make steel almost look like an organic material; he combined it with wicker and leather to make it personal and livable.” Kjaerholm pieces have a sculptural presence and can bring surprising warmth to a modernist space, making them extremely useful objects—ones that dwell halfway between art and furniture.
Hermès blue felt messenger bag.
“The guy that I get my coffee from every morning is so open. Something happens there—it’s a kind of intimacy that we don’t talk about but that makes me feel better.
“Collaboration is about the kind of interchange you have on every level. On my own, I’m not really so good. With great people, you get to share ideas and go places you could never go intellectually. I worked with Reed Morrison on my loft, and without him, I couldn’t have done this. Every time I work with my team, at the office, I learn something, and that’s what keeps things fresh.”
Passions
Passions: Golden State Glamour
Smarts
Can Gas Go Green?
Smarts
An Architect Strikes (Olive) Oil In The Middle East
Features
Derelict Duty
Spotlight
Upgrade your John Hancock with a John Adams
Your privacy is ensured. We never sell, disclose, or trade contact information.
02138 is an independent magazine and is not affiliated with Harvard University. Please note that 02138 is available to the general public by subscription only, but is not automatically mailed to all Harvard alumni.
