Filed under: Design, etc, News & Trends
Don't let yourself fall into a shopping rut. Instead, explore some of the best boutiques around the country. This week: Ann Gish, 4 West 20th Street, New York, NY.Designer Ann Gish, who is known for her brightly colored bedding and pillows, has finally set up a retail outpost in Manhattan where she is based. From the moment you step into the luxurious and comfortable space, you immediately feel relaxed thanks to the shop's calm and soothing atmosphere. We sat down with Ann and chatted with her about her fabulous new spot, the antiques she picked out for it, and her venture back into clothing design.
1. What was the greatest inspiration for opening your first New York store?
It was time. New York is New York, and it's where I live. It was a chance for me to do more outside my normal loop and I love stepping off the cliff. That's what makes life so interesting.
2. Are any new collections debuting with the new store opening?
The Scroll bedding, which has accents in polyester-taffeta that's been laser-cut and it doesn't tear. Basket, which is silk-jacquard, is also new.
3. There's also loungewear in the store, is that also a new venture?
I first designed loungewear and robes 20 years ago and then I stopped. I'm reintroducing them here for the first time since then. I'm only doing loungewear and robes, though. If they sell, then maybe I'll design more.
4. There's also a lot of great art in the store, are those also for sale?
Everything in the store is for sale-all of the art and prints like paintings by this California artist named Michael Ornstein whom I found out through a good friend, and there are also one-off pieces that you won't find again anywhere else.
5. Where do you find these rare pieces?
Everywhere! I'm going to London soon and I'll stop by Paris. You never know where you'll find something.
6. Do you have a favorite piece in the store?
It's a fight between the hand sculptures that I found in a statue factory in China, a huge chaise, and a gorgeous 1950s Italian ormolu wall sconce. I found the sconce at one of the antique fairs along the piers in New York and I'm hoping to have it reproduced. I've been looking into finding more ormolu pieces, especially porcelain dishes with ormolu rims and handles and the little feet at the bottom.
7. How has the response to the store been?
Everyone's been great. I really like meeting all the people who shop in here and finding out about them. My office is right in the store. Plus, I love the openness and lightness. I get to do what I want which is true luxury as far as I am concerned.
On ShelterPop's wishlist: Dupione pillows with eyelash trim, $160 each.
Courtesy of Ann Gish