Throughout the year, our exploration of countless spaces—from homes to art exhibitions, hotels, and the hottest new restaurants—has led us to discover some truly remarkable places. These standout spaces have captivated our imagination for their newsworthy impact, transcendental quality, or sheer glamour. In an effort to highlight the best, our team of editors, A-list designers, and contributors have sifted through the numerous spaces encountered to present those that continue to inspire us as we move into 2025 and beyond.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Frank Lloyd Wright
Location: Spring Green, Wisconsin
Designer: In Common With
Art: Claudio Bonuglia
Culinary Team: Jennifer and Nicole Vitagliano
One particularly magical place that left an indelible mark on our minds is Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin campus in Spring Green, Wisconsin. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a beacon of revolutionary design ideas but also a testament to tragedy and subsequent renewal. Known for nurturing the talents of John Lautner and Bruce Goff, Taliesin is emblematic of Wright’s organic architecture concepts. The reopening of Taliesin’s historic theater this year was a special occasion, offering the rare opportunity to witness a sublime second act. The theater, once a gathering place for the community almost a century ago, has undergone an impressive $1.1 million restoration. A striking feature of this renewal is the meticulously restored abstract curtain, based on an original Wright design, which breathes new life into this iconic venue.
Another unforgettable destination lies up a graffiti-covered metal door in the heart of Tribeca. As you ascend a narrow staircase, you enter The Bar at Quarters, a space that resonates with the eclectic vibrance of a downtown secret speakeasy. This concept store by the creative minds behind the Brooklyn lighting brand In Common With spans an expansive 8,000-square-foot area. Arranged like an actual home, the space features rooms designed as a library, living room, dining room, and kitchen—all filled with items for sale. Notable pieces range from an André Solnay sideboard from the 1950s to a $21 jar of chocolate hazelnut spread. Completing the experience is a natural wine bar with a captivating fresco by artist Claudio Bonuglia, and culinary offerings by the Vitagliano sisters, known for their acclaimed restaurant Raf’s. The atmosphere here is one Madonna herself would no doubt embrace.
These standout spaces offer more than just visual appeal; they encapsulate narratives of innovation, renewal, and style that resonate on a deeper level. Taliesin’s renewed theater, for instance, does not just restore a historic building but revives a place of community engagement that once served as a hub for film, performances, and creative thought. The continuity of design principles championed by Frank Lloyd Wright underscores a legacy of creativity that is still relevant today. Visitors to this space not only appreciate architectural beauty but also engage with the rich history and transformative stories embedded within its walls.
Similarly, Quarters redefines the traditional concept store experience by blurring the lines between retail, art, and social spaces. In its unique juxtaposition of a cozy home environment with the allure of a speakeasy, it challenges our perceptions of shopping and socializing. Bringing together curated design pieces, a vibrant social scene, and artistic flair, it invites visitors to explore and indulge their senses. The inclusion of a wine bar with specialty drinks and inventive culinary delights elevates the experience further, making it a must-visit destination in the urban landscape.
Through these exceptional spaces, we continue to find inspiration and joy. They remind us of design’s power to reinvent spaces, enrich experiences, and evoke emotions. Whether it’s the rich tapestry of history woven into Taliesin’s fabric or the bold creativity demonstrated in Quarters, these destinations have proven to be much more than mere physical locations. They are living representations of the innovation and passion that drive the design world forward. As we carry these experiences with us, they will undoubtedly influence our thoughts and pursuits in the upcoming year and beyond.
