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Designer Shawn Henderson’s Manhattan Sanctuary

In the heart of Manhattan, designer Shawn Henderson reveals the transformative journey of his one-bedroom apartment. Initially drawn to its architectural features, he reminisces about the bare brick walls that presented a blank canvas for his creativity. “I had this fantasy of moving in and not doing anything—just a mattress on the floor,” he notes, chuckling at what could have been a minimalist approach.

However, Henderson’s vision quickly evolved into something much more layered and intricate, reflecting his extensive experience and unique aesthetic that he has honed over two decades through his design firm. His interiors resonate with a distinctive kind of contemporary charm, proving that there is more beneath the surface than mere simplicity.

Defining the hallmark of his style is a challenge for Henderson, as he describes it as an elusive concept. “I’m just not that way,” he admits, highlighting the difficulties in categorizing his work into clear labels. It was through the process of compiling his first monograph, titled Interiors in Context and published by Phaidon in 2021, that the core tenets of his design philosophy began to crystallize. He articulates how elements of color, texture, and scale manifest consistently across his projects, whether they lean toward the modern or the traditional. This thoughtful integration allows him to create environments that foster balance, serenity, and comfort for those who inhabit them.

In a nod to both practicality and style, a custom-made ladder ascends to the lofted area of his apartment, which is furnished with a desk created by Arne Hovmand-Olsen and a striking sculpture by Paul Morehouse. Each element within the space has been carefully chosen, reflecting Henderson’s unique perspective and design sensibility.

Ultimately, Shawn Henderson’s living space is a testament to the power of thoughtful design—transforming a stark apartment into a warm and inviting home that resonates with personality and creativity.

Source
www.architecturaldigest.com