During a recent shopping trip back east, a colleague of mine mentioned a showroom in the Flatiron District of Manhattan that fosters breakout design talent from around the world. Since I’ve always rooted for the underdog, I myself once one; I decided to stop in and experience it for myself.
Founded by Dominic Lepere in ’06, Lepere Inc. showcases a discriminating yet palpable mix of furniture, lighting, rugs and accessories; rooted in tradition yet based in the future. Boasting contemporary collections from around the world, the owner has exercised a well-honed artistic vision; producing a product mix that may not necessarily share a common provenance but is definitely united.
With degrees in art history and economics and subsequent roles at Bulthaup, Cassina and Dakota Jackson, Dominic clearly understands texture, proportion, utility and ease. As an artist who plays similar notes in my design work, a sense of balance and harmony was evident.
Located in an industrial loft space off W. 22nd Street, Lepere boasts 15-16 distinct lines; providing designers from around the world with a voice here in the U.S. while giving us here something to talk about. With products by such design laureates as Jean-Marie Massaud, Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola and master of minimalism, Piero Lissoni, Lepere merges technology with artisanal craftsmanship to help you create environments for the way you live today.
So how did a guy who has yet to design a residential space carve out a name for himself in the world of home design?
As my new friend and colleague Dominic humbly says, ‘I look for the gems’.
My response? Look no further than Lepere.
Until next time…
