Grandeur Reconsidered

Kips Bay Showhouse is always a lesson in maximalism and I end up with 500+ photos on my iPhone every year.  This year was no exception, and I was particularly struck by Matthew Monroe Bee's petite sitting room on the fourth floor.  Each room typically has a story behind it, and Matthew's "Grandeur Reconsidered" was inspired by Drayton Hall plantation in Charleston, South Carolina.  Originally built in the 18th century, the estate is a classic example of Palladian architecture that has remained in tact for over 250 years.  The house is now a hisotrical preservation site and sits unfurnished, allowing the architecture of the home to be the main focus.

Matthew did a fabulous job paying homage to Drayton Hall within his room's details.  Fine antique pieces and valuable artworks are mixed in with relaxed southern touches- like the sisal carpeting throughout. If I had to describe my design aesthetic through a room, this would probably be it.  The room masterfully steps in to the present while keeping an eye on the past.  It was my personal favorite of the 2019 showhouse:

A few details shots I took on my iPhone while walking through the house- I adore the chartreuse pom trim on the curtains and the figure sketch:

Antique armchair uphosltered in a classic blue and white floral:

My favorite pieces in the room (although it's nearly impossible to choose) were these neoclassical bergeres upholstered in a cut velvet red and blue print, paired with the Scalamandre le tigre pillow:

Heather Clawson of Habitually Chic took this photo which perfectly encapsulates the level of detail Matthew considered when decorating his room.  A marbelized trash can, a silk-wrapped lamp cord, a marble baseboard, wall-to-wall sisal carpeting, and a whimsical chinoserie linen curtain panel:

{all photos, unless otherwise noted, via Matthew Monroe Bees}

“It’s no secret that Charleston and the Lowcountry’s architecture and interiors have been the sirens call to those both far and near for the better part of the last two centuries,” the designer explained in his show notes. “Now, the evolved aesthetic of a once colonial capital to one of the world’s top travel destinations is arriving at Kips Bay Show House. Where other places restore dwellings to a certain time period, Charleston has led the charge in preserving history as it is found. Inspired by the preserved rooms of Drayton Hall, a concept was formed.”

-Matthew Bee

Read more about Matthew's room here and here.