The Age of Elegance: A New York Townhouse Designed by Diamond Baratta

What does it take for an ordinary object to become a well-designed one? Perhaps it is the attention to detail or inclusion of embellishments that serve to elevate the piece. The elusiveness of it all is what often confuses buyers when decorating a home.  Sometimes what is required is help from outside tastemakers, whose talents are to source furnishings and give confidence to buyers. Stair’s auction, The Age of Elegance: A New York Townhouse designed by Diamond Baratta, is a wonderful opportunity to bid in confidence on items selected by a highly respected design team.  

 What is notable about these interior designers is the pedigree of each. Anthony Baratta is known for a unique use of color that honors traditional design and is a historic Williamsburg’s first designer in residence. The late William Diamond was known for his playful, dramatic creations, and often experimented with color and proportion in his stylish work. Together, the dynamic team created some of the most celebrated interiors of the last several decades. Their works graced over 70 magazine covers worldwide and received a 2010 lifetime achievement award from Benjamin Moore.   

 The taste of Diamond & Baratta is represented in the sumptuous detail and harmony of pieces offered in the auction, which is itself a nod to Edith Wharton’s New York City at the turn of the last century. The Gilded Age title reference is reflected in lavish highlights that include a pair of large Chinese Mandarin Palette Porcelain Ginger Jars mounted as lamps, and a pair of terracotta urns, at once delicate and monumental. An unusual Louis XV style kidney-shaped desk is a luxury item of the past, as is a gorgeous Neo-Gothic lantern. There is also an array of giltwood mirrors, French and Continental furniture and Aubusson-style carpets present. To view the auction’s complete catalog and register to bid, go to Bidsquare.