Kips Bay Designers Reveal How They’re Holding Up, Why They’re Excited, and More

The countdown to Kips Bay is on. With just two weeks until show time, it’s the home stretch – literally – for 2024’s participating designers.

We couldn’t help but wonder: How are they holding up?

What better way to find out than from the participants themselves. We reached out to local designers Trish Sheats, Traci Connell, and Eddie Maestri.

Trish: I’m thrilled with how the room is progressing. Our vendors have graciously worked with our tight turnaround time. Aside from the occasional surprise that keeps us on our toes, the design process has gone very smoothly.

Traci: It’s been a whirlwind, but I’m holding up pretty well. Between the creative highs and the inevitable challenges, it’s been a balancing act, but seeing everything come together makes it all worth it. Honestly, the excitement of the reveal and the positive energy around the project have been keeping me going.

Eddie: Great! The space is mostly done except for our art installation.

Tell us about your space.

Trish: “Le Salon du Champagne” blends luxe elegance with a warm welcome. “The space will feel like an invitation – a charmed, poised setting to put on some music, catch up with friends, play a round of mahjong, and sip on some bubbles.”

Details include new Gracie wallpaper, Kravet Couture’s latest fabric collaboration with Joseph Altuzarra, a custom mantle, and a fire screen designed by Sheats’ son.  

Traci: The “Femme Fumoir” cigar lounge integrates a rich tapestry of historical and modern details. A faux humidor showcases a curated selection of cigars, while a built-in coffee system serving espresso martinis caters to today’s tastes.

“The design gracefully balances tradition with contemporary luxury, creating a space where all are welcome and celebrated, and guests are reminded that the guilty pleasures of the past remain thoroughly enjoyed and celebrated today.”

Eddie: Veranda magazine calls his “Le Salon de Musique” a love letter to travel: “There’s a Paris-meets-Tokyo vibe that pays homage to his affinity for the spectacular Château de Gudanes as well as memories of extensive travels across Japan and South Korea.”

Features include an Arcana x Maestri fireplace, an oval reflective ceiling medallion and chandelier, hand-painted wallpaper by Porter Teleo, a Maestri modular sofa, Mous console bar, and Feizy custom rug. 

What are you most excited about?

Trish: The room truly feels complete when enjoyed by those who visit – music playing, chatter filling the air, and every guest taking in the beauty. I am so excited to connect with visitors in the space that has become so special to me.

Traci: Watching guests immerse themselves in the Cigar lounge – whether it’s imagining themselves savoring a cigar, enjoying a drink, or simply relaxing in the ambiance. It’s not just a lounge; it’s an experience that celebrates indulgence and refined leisure for both men and women.

Eddie: Opening up my room to the public! I’m looking forward to meeting and talking to people about the design.

Why do Kips Bay?

Trish: It provides an opportunity to celebrate each designer’s imagination while teaming up with vendors to support three worthwhile causes: Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club, Dwell with Dignity and The Crystal Charity Ball.

Traci: The opportunity to showcase my design talent and creativity in such a prime location was an easy ‘yes’! Turtle Creek’s blend of classic architecture and modern flair perfectly mirrors both my personal aesthetic and design philosophy.

Eddie: The opportunity to do something different, creative, and incorporate the latest design products.

The Kips Bay Decorator Show House is located at 2999 Turtle Creek Blvd. Tickets are online now for the opening day VIP preview (Thursday, Oct. 24), and general admission (Oct. 25 through Nov. 13).