By: Maria Williams

Elevating the humble staircase, one of the most neglected parts of any home, has been reimagined in a luxurious transformation project by leading interior designer Lucinda Loya. 

Pulling on her 30 years of experience, the Houston-based interior designer was handed a task that would have floored mere mortals: overhauling the Grand Staircase and a powder room, two spaces in an iconic Upper East Side townhouse, into a design masterpiece. 

Immersive Experience 

What transpired was not only design magic but the stamp of a true artist. Lucinda’s vision of “couture interiors” was translated into immersive experiences that intersect art, history, nature, and modern design. 

The result is ‘Enchanted Roots’, a fusion of artistic flair and organic elegance that seamlessly combine as part of a project at the annual Kips Bay New York Show House 2024. It also doubles as the nation’s most anticipated design event of the year. 

For nearly half a century, the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club has been a beacon of interior design excellence. Each year, it brings together renowned designers to transform a luxury Manhattan home into a stunning exhibition of fine furnishings, art, and technology. 

The house on 125 East 65th Street, which is open to the public until May 28, is a prime example of the magnificent townhouses and mansions that the city’s gentry called home at the turn of the 20th century. 

Designed in 1904 by Charles Platt, a prolific architect known for also designing houses for the Roosevelts and Astors, it was home to several notable residents, such as publishing magnate Henry Luce. 

“I am truly honored to be a part of the Kips Bay Show House this year,” said Loya. “Our goal is to create spaces that tell stories. The design of the grand staircase and powder room celebrates the fusion of elegance and nature, providing an immersive experience that transports visitors into a realm of refined grandeur.” 

Elevating The Senses 

Loya and her trailblazing design team have delivered on a promise to captivate the senses and elevate the spirit with aplomb. 

In the Grand Staircase, visitors will encounter the stunning “Ripped” rug from Lucinda Loya Interiors’ upcoming 2025 collection with The Rug Company. The staircase’s backdrop is adorned with custom wallpaper in collaboration with Flavor Paper, featuring a collage of 19th-century etchings that create a unified perspective. 

As visitors ascend the staircase, they will be greeted by a tranquil waterfall. This waterfall leads to the landing, which is adorned with large-scale custom cornices and alpaca drapery crafted by The Shade Store using Sandra Jordan’s luxurious fabrics.

The highly detailed design extends to the main powder room on the second floor, which is dressed in Loya’s “Rift” wallpaper. This new design, created in collaboration with Flavor Paper, was inspired by runway fashion and Lucinda’s vision of organic futurism. 

Elements of Sophistication 

A custom-designed vanity by Cosentino pairs seamlessly with Kohler fixtures. Vaughan pendants, luxurious accessories, and custom monogrammed towels by E. Braun & Co. New York adds a touch of refinement and sophistication. Scott Eaton’s Perpetual Now! video art offers a delightful surprise, blending seamlessly with Melt mirrors by Bower Studio and a unique rug installation by Stark Carpet. 

Innovative lighting is a hallmark of LLI’s design, evident in the Fiddlehead fixtures by Roll and Hill that mirror the delicate unfurling of fern leaves. The Grand Aperture by Allied Makers echoes the graceful passage of light and the shape of the sun, enhancing the space’s ambiance. 

An unparalleled attention to detail was paid to every custom piece, from the black piping that is repeated on the bathroom vanity, alpaca drapery and bench to the harmonious repetition of shapes and organic patterns on the rug, lighting and art. 

In Demand Designer 

Lucinda’s work over 30 years has established her as a leading figure in the world of interior design. She is known for her unmistakable aesthetic and imaginative approach. Her work spans private homes, commercial spaces, private jets and professional sports facilities around the globe. 

LLI’s participation in Kips Bay further solidifies its reputation for creativity and excellence. The firm’s current projects include a villa in Cabo San Lucas, an expansive flat in the heart of NYC in Central Park Tower, a home in the Hamptons, the Thompson Hotel Houston rooftop pool and café. 

Lucinda’s innovative ‘eclectic high-end style’ has also graced the hit TV shows, while her philanthropic efforts, jointly with her husband and prominent Houston businessman Javier Loya, help empower communities and support various causes. 

Her eclectic trademark is breathing life into multifaceted spaces. The results are soulful, couture interiors that stand the test of time and transcend both fashion and interior design. 

Ticket admission to the Kips Bay New York Show House 2024 starts at $50.

Published by: Khy Talara