Architecture News

A Brooklyn residence, once devoid of distinctiveness, has been thoroughly reimagined into a lively and inviting haven, thanks to the vision of designer Alan Eckstein from Somerset House. Initially seeking mere furniture, the homeowners found themselves embarking on a complete interior design journey that culminated in a personalized space brimming with warmth and character.

The Journey to Personalized Interiors: From Blank Walls to Plywood Paneling

When a Brooklyn couple approached Somerset House, a Queens-based collectible design gallery, they were simply looking for furniture. However, their encounter with Alan Eckstein, cofounder of the gallery, led them down an unexpected path towards a full home transformation. Eckstein, whose expertise extended beyond sourcing to comprehensive home design, quickly forged a connection with the couple. Their spacious 3,600-square-foot home, despite its high ceilings and open layout, suffered from a lack of personality after a recent renovation. Rejecting the prevalent minimalist aesthetic, Eckstein proposed a bold solution: extensive use of oak plywood wainscoting and cladding, drawing inspiration from Jean-Michel Frank's 1920s interiors. This decision, though initially met with some apprehension due to the sheer volume of wood, proved to be the cornerstone of the home's newfound identity, a testament to the trust the couple placed in Eckstein's unique vision.

The implementation of the plywood wainscoting was a meticulous process, spanning approximately six months. Despite plywood being a common material, achieving the desired warmth and character involved overcoming challenges like inconsistent staining, which resulted in hues that were initially too red, yellow, or golden. With the collaborative effort of Studio BAD, the wainscoting, finished with elegantly rounded bullnose trim, became the defining element that imbued the house with its much-needed personality. Beyond the structural changes, Eckstein curated a selection of predominantly vintage furnishings, with about 80% of the pieces sourced from Somerset House’s own collection. This thoughtful blend of custom design and carefully chosen vintage items, including a 1950s Ico Parisi dining table and Poul Henningsen’s copper PH3 pendants, created a home that feels lived-in and deeply personal, where every object contributes to a larger narrative of comfort and style.

Infusing Vibrancy Through Color and Curated Details

Beyond the fundamental structural changes, Eckstein skillfully integrated bold color schemes and unique details to elevate the home's overall ambiance. The living room, a central gathering space, radiates warmth, anchored by a custom credenza featuring vinyl pockets that extend across an entire wall. This area, while housing valuable vintage designs like French oak armchairs by Guillerme et Chambron, maintains an approachable feel. Eckstein emphasized that the space was designed to withstand daily life, ensuring that nothing felt too delicate or untouchable. The seamless flow into the dining area further showcases Somerset House’s distinctive touch, with historical lighting fixtures complementing the midcentury table, creating an environment that encourages connection and interaction among family and guests.

The exploration of color continued into other private spaces, particularly the dressing room, which the wife envisioned as a monochromatic fantasy. After experimenting with various shades of pink and green, they settled on the tranquil Benjamin Moore’s Bluebelle, complemented by a luxurious carpet and a 1930s Murano glass ceiling light. This serene blue sanctuary became a cherished retreat, described by the wife as a “very happy space.” Similarly, a guest room, which also functions as an office, was transformed into a vibrant "hilarious red room." This deliberate use of color, along with distinctive elements like a 1970s red marble plinth and a 2nd-century Roman bust, ensures that each area of the Brooklyn home possesses its own unique character and charm. The homeowners and their guests consistently praise the residence for its elevated yet unpretentious atmosphere, a testament to Eckstein's ability to blend sophisticated design with practical, livable comfort.

The arrival of autumn ushers in a popular debate: when exactly does fall officially begin? Regardless of whether you embrace the season early or cling to summer's warmth, one truth remains constant: the changing colors of the leaves possess a timeless beauty. For those residing in bustling cities, a weekend excursion to admire the vibrant foliage is an ideal escape. Such a trip necessitates a festive autumnal spirit, an abundance of apple cider doughnuts, comfortable attire, and, crucially, a welcoming sanctuary to retreat to. While lavish facilities are always a bonus, the most desirable basecamp for leaf-peeping offers a cozy fireplace, expansive windows, and convenient access to nature's breathtaking display. This article presents a selection of the finest hotels in upstate New York and the broader Northeast, serving as your ultimate guide to experiencing the season amidst the majestic Adirondacks, the colorful reflections on Lake Placid, and the invigorating air of the Berkshires. We've also included options in surrounding Northeastern areas for those looking to venture beyond the Hudson River's charm to witness the seasonal shift.

Seeking a memorable autumn escape? The Northeast boasts a diverse array of accommodations, each offering unique charms for visitors eager to immerse themselves in the region's stunning fall foliage. From historic inns that blend vintage elegance with modern comforts to serene lakeside retreats designed for ultimate relaxation, there's a perfect spot for every traveler. Many of these establishments are celebrated not only for their prime locations amidst vibrant natural landscapes but also for their exceptional amenities, including gourmet dining, rejuvenating spas, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and boating. Whether you prefer a rustic cabin experience with all the luxuries of a hotel or a sophisticated hotel stay with picturesque views, these destinations promise an unforgettable seasonal journey.

Enchanting Retreats for Nature Lovers

For those eager to fully immerse themselves in the splendor of autumn, a variety of distinguished accommodations offer unparalleled access to the region's most captivating natural vistas. These handpicked establishments blend luxurious comfort with direct immersion into the vibrant tapestry of fall, ensuring that guests can revel in the seasonal transformation from the moment they arrive. Each location provides a unique vantage point and an array of amenities designed to enhance the leaf-peeping experience, from cozy interiors to expansive outdoor spaces. Whether nestled beside a tranquil lake or perched amidst rolling hills, these retreats are perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure during the crisp autumn months.

Consider The Six Bells in Rosendale, New York, an 1850s inn transformed into a maximalist haven, where the Double Duke room offers a sensory delight with its fretwork wallpaper, deep cinnabar hues, and pistachio window shades. Beyond its whimsical interiors, guests can step directly into the vibrant Hudson Valley, with the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail and Rosendale Trestle offering dramatic elevated views of the changing leaves. Similarly, The Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa in Aurora, New York, provides a luxurious lakeside escape on Cayuga Lake. Praised by Architectural Digest editors, this resort features a tranquil spa, exquisite dining, and easy access to paddleboarding, biking, and hiking, all against a backdrop of stunning autumnal colors. Further north, Eastwind Hotel in Lake Placid, New York, reimagines a historic motor lodge with standalone Lushna Suites that provide direct views of the surrounding forestry. Guests here enjoy the privacy of a cabin alongside hotel luxuries like an on-site bar, vintage library, and sauna, with Lake Placid’s shops and restaurants within walking distance and the Adirondacks’ dramatic fall hues at their doorstep.

Idyllic Stays for Relaxation and Exploration

Beyond the immediate spectacle of foliage, several premier destinations offer a harmonious blend of tranquility and adventure, making them perfect for an autumn getaway. These establishments are meticulously designed to provide a serene environment for relaxation while also serving as ideal launchpads for exploring the natural beauty and local charm of their surroundings. Guests can indulge in a variety of activities, from unwinding in luxurious spa facilities to embarking on invigorating outdoor excursions, all within a setting that celebrates the distinct character of the fall season. Each location promises a rich and memorable experience, catering to those who appreciate both refined comfort and the call of the wild.

For a truly indulgent experience, the Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut, stands as a benchmark for luxury autumn retreats. Its sprawling 58-acre grounds, featuring manicured gardens and woodlands, are just a two-hour drive from New York City. Guests can enjoy comprehensive spa services, multiple pools, and tennis courts, alongside the charm of Washington, Connecticut, which inspired the fictional town of Stars Hollow. The Henson in Hensonville, New York, offers a different kind of allure, described as a place guests never want to leave, even on rainy days. This unique spot provides a perfect blend of cozy lounge areas for chess and tea, an on-site restaurant serving local delicacies, and easy access to Catskills attractions like skiing at Hunter Mountain and the waterfalls of Kaaterskill. Venturing further afield, The Norumbega in Camden, Maine, presents a sophisticated seaside escape. Here, guests can savor fresh-caught seafood while gazing at Penobscot Bay, where vibrant fall foliage contrasts beautifully with the ocean backdrop. Camden's year-round vitality, with establishments like First Fig, ensures a lively atmosphere even during late autumn, offering a unique coastal leaf-peeping adventure. Each of these hotels provides a distinctive and delightful way to experience the Northeast's autumnal grandeur, blending scenic beauty with comfort and convenience.