House Tour: An art advisor's Art Gallery-style home in Chelsea, New York City (NYC)
By Karine Monie -
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New York-based art advisor Maria Brito’s manifesto, which she shares with her team, clearly expresses her vision: “We believe in unique aesthetics, engaging ideas, special environments and moments attached to meaningful things.
We create worlds and havens with and within the context of contemporary art. We believe in the transcendent power of unique objects and the cherished memories and long-term appeal these pieces can hold.”
Lives in Chelsea, New York City
Also an art collector herself, Maria has lived in Chelsea, a neighbourhood with many galleries, for almost 10 years. It was here she designed her own 1,797 sq ft (167 sqm) apartment.
“We found this place when I was pregnant with my first child”, remembers Maria. “My husband and I owned another home in the city and we wanted to move to a bigger place.”
The round mirror panels on the artwork in the bathroom livens up the space.
3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms
Maria’s current apartment comprises three bedrooms and three bathrooms. The hardwood floors bring warmth to the space while some rooms were decorated with colourful wallpapers, creating a unique atmosphere.
Quirky artworks give the kitchen a contemporary accent.
Poggenpohl Kitchen
In the kitchen - adorned with Poggenpohl cabinets and a Marilyn Minter photograph - and the bathrooms, Maria used quartz and marble for their durability.
Filled to the brim with colour and life, this spectacular apartment houses some of its homeowner’s diverse variety of contemporary artworks, lovingly peppered throughout the abode.
Art Gallery Home
Convinced that designing an interior space inspired by the artworks it hosts is the best way to reflect the personality of the dwellers, Maria followed this same approach for her and her family.
“My home is art-centric, funny, cosy and authentic”, she says.
The eclectic homeowner is not afraid of messes in her living spaces, which lend a touch of authenticity to the design of the interiors.
Contemporary pieces by Brazilian artists Vik Muniz and Osgemeos, Michael Linares of Puerto Rico, Iván Navarro of Chile, Germany-born Rafael Neff and Young British Artists member Tracey Emin - among others - echo Maria’s eclectic and bold style.
“I’ve travelled all over the world, first when I was single and then with my husband; throughout the years, I collected a lot of art”, she confesses.
When asked which artwork she prefers, her answer is straightforward: “I can’t answer this! It’s like asking me who of my two kids is my favourite!”
Vintage Designer Furniture
The paintings, sculptures and photographs combine with vintage furniture, such as the LC2 sofa by Le Corbusier, another sofa by Florence Knoll, a lamp by Ettore Sottsass and two Art Deco armchairs.
Pillows made with sarees from Sri Lanka, a small painting by Matthew Palladino, a stone sculpture from a village in South Africa, an Andy Warhol Brillo Box, a Jen Stark sculpture and Jeff Koons-inspired mini sculptures unexpectedly mix and match.
Most of the artworks in her collection are from established and popular contemporary artists
“I am a woman of many dimensions and interests”, Maria says, “I have been combining contemporary art with more traditional furnishing for a long time, but now I tend to veer more towards modern furniture.”
xxph Karam, the architect and former owner.
Most of the artworks in her collection are from established and popular contemporary artists.
Dining Room
In the dining-living room, the red and orange tones evoke the sun.
“These hues make me feel engaged and happy”, she explains. “I don’t get tired to see as many colours.”
Unique prints inject life into the bedroom.
Master Bedroom
Adorned with Sanderson wallpaper, artwork by Mickalene Thomas and a custom designed headboard, the master bedroom features greens and neutrals, giving a sense of serenity.
One of her favourite rooms, Maria’s office provides her privacy and silence.
Filled with contemporary art, colours and pieces of furniture and accessories with different styles, Brito’s apartment is an ode to her endless creativity.