Schumacher’s Creative Director, Dara Caponigro, on the return to traditional interior design—and the enduring legacy of the Prince of Chintz.
When I started my career, it was the raging ’80s. Think bullion fringe, floral chintz, balloon shades, Staffordshire dogs and tons of English antiques.
I went antiquing this month, and it seems like all of the people who decorated with those things are downsizing (at least, I hope that’s the case). The shops were brimming with items straight out of 1986 House Beautiful, and I must admit that they felt fresh again—even though I hope, this time around, they’ll be used with more restraint!
Then, there’s the upcoming Sotheby’s sale on January 23rd and 24th featuring the estate of the legendary decorator, The Prince of Chintz, Mario Buatta. You can view the catalogue online or, better yet, attend the preview in person January 16th through 22nd. Many of the items are extraordinary.
Mario Buatta’s New York Apartment Courtesy of the Estate of Mario Buatta and Scott Frances OTTO
Still Life of Various Flowers Arranged in a Glass Vase with Goldfish, Two Butterflies, and Other Insects, all on a Stone Ledge, Jan Van Os (1744-1808), on sale in "Mario Buatta: Prince of Interiors" at Sotheby's this month.
In its new February 2020 issue, The World of Interiors published a story on Buatta’s house in Connecticut. It’s an interesting read and gets to who Mario was as a person (I can attest to every word!).
The ’80s are in the air! I’m not saying that that’s all there is—personal style is still so important, so people will and should still feel free to express themselves as they like—but there is definitely a shift out there toward traditionalism.
It’s perfect timing for Schumacher’s new Classics collection—archival treasures that celebrate the natural world, reimagined for today’s tastes.
Roca Redonda fabric
Cabot Botanical Large fabric
Del Tesoro fabric
Baudin Butterfly Chintz fabric
Bedolina Chintz fabric
Floreana fabric
SHOP ALL SCHUMACHER CLASSICS >
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A fabulous cape of chrysanthemums appeared in a 2016 show by Dutch fashion designer Edwin Oudshoorn, in collaboration with avant-garde Amsterdam-based florists The Wunderkammer. Melody Lieftink
Do You Know Your Floral History?
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