The latest buzz has New York City’s design scene perking up this season.

Kligerman projects in Bridgehampton PHOTO BY RICHARD POWERS
A Kligerman projects in Bridgehampton

BUILDING BUZZ

Tom Kligerman, one of the former principal designers of Ike Kligerman Barkley, is paving a new path with the recent launch of his eponymous new firm, Kligerman Architecture & Design. “[My team has] learned to step outside their comfort zones and experiment—even if it means going out on a limb,” he says. The firm specializes in shingle-style exteriors and luxurious interiors, though, Kligerman prides himself on his ability to challenge the boundaries of time. “Be it traditional or modern, shingle or masonry, the 1930s or 1880s, we bridge those gaps,” he adds. Projects intertwine distinctive design rooted in tradition and modern elements, including sculptural forms, taut detailing, glass expanses and a touch of whimsy, all of which illustrate an exciting future for the firm. 500 Fifth Ave.

FLOOR MODEL

Jennifer Manners’ new showroom is an oasis of design inspiration PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
Jennifer Manners’ new showroom is an oasis of design inspiration.

Renowned designer Jennifer Manners is laying out the carpet for the debut of the British rug brand’s first U.S.-based showroom at the New York Design Center. Manners describes the space as one that emphasizes the artistry within each rug rather than overwhelm the space with merchandise. The 2,300-square-foot space on the ninth floor of the NYDC is appointed in a fusion of olive green, aquamarine and club blue hues complemented by linen and plaster to showcase the textural nature of the floor coverings. “Rugs can be tricky to display, and it takes discipline to fight the urge to just fill the walls and floors with rugs to show the variety of all we can do,” says Manners, founder and creative director. “Instead, we wanted the space to feel light and airy—like an art gallery.” 200 Lexington Ave.

THE TOWNHOUSE

SFERRA’s facade. SFERRA PHOTO BY GENEVIEVE GARRUPPO
SFERRA’s facade

Italian home lifestyle brand SFERRA recently opened the doors to its NYC flagship location, dubbed SFERRA Townhouse. The three-story, 2,600-square-foot spot is an ode to the brand’s beginnings in founder Gennaro Sferra’s townhouse just a mile away. In-store, the brand’s luxe bedding, bath, decor, tabletop and more will be on offer, as well as limited-edition, one-of-a-kind selects available exclusively at the flagship. “The new SFERRA Townhouse will offer our customers and the design community access to the entire world of SFERRA in a beautiful home setting,” says Michelle Klein, president and CEO. “It’s a unique opportunity to experience the craftsmanship, luxury, and timeless design that are synonymous with SFERRA.” 11 E. 20th. St.

RETURN TO THE ROOTS

Alaïa’s new boutique showcases works by renowned American artists  ALAÏA PHOTOS BY ANGELA HAU
Alaïa’s new boutique showcases works by renowned American artists

Luxe label Alaïa recently unveiled a new U.S. location in Soho—the same place where Tunisian designer Azzedine Alaïa first touched down in America. The boutique, situated inside a reimagined brownstone, is a refined, minimal space that allows for intimate discovery of the brand’s creations alongside artworks by renowned American artists such as Donald Judd, Robert Rauschenberg, Mike Kelley and Jonathan Horowitz. “New York has always been one of the creative hearts intimately linked to the history of the house,” says Myriam Serrano, Alaïa’s CEO. “We are delighted to open this new and exciting chapter in a city that means so much to fashion, to creativity in general and to Alaïa.” 149 Mercer St.