Meet the Kips Bay Designer: Jamie Drake
The New York designer and longtime Kips Bay Decorator Show House collaborator shapes the garden terrace at this year's location
Perhaps no designer is more synonymous with Kips Bay than Jamie Drake. He is vice chair of the Kips Bay Decorator Show House, benefiting the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club, and co-chair of its President’s Dinner, regaling the audience at the prestigious industry event with his signature sense of humor.
Over the course of his illustrious 47-year career, his expertise has spanned a wide range of projects—from cosmopolitan glass-clad penthouses and sprawling oceanfront estates to commercial spaces including private foundations and state-of-the-art medical facilities. His civic work includes the renovation and restoration of New York’s Gracie Mansion, the City Clerk’s Office (also known as the Marriage Bureau), and numerous rooms at City Hall, all completed during the administration of his longtime client of nearly four decades, Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
Beyond interiors, Drake is a prolific designer of luxury home products, with collections that include carpets, rugs, furniture, fabrics, lighting, and bath fixtures and accessories.
What was the inspiration for your room at this year’s Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York?
“I was inspired by great icons of 20th century design; Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Pavilion, John Saladino’s spaces of contemplation and intrigue, and Louis Kahn’s spiritual tranquility, all were at play as the concept evolved.”
Please tell us about a significant piece that helps shape the mood of your space.
“A lacy phosphorescent bronze and silver sculpture by Richard Filipowski from Hostler Burrows captured the sense of delight and magic I wanted. Its delicate filigree of leafy forms and mystical planets is a focal point of fascination. The artist was a highly regarded member of the New Bauhaus movement.”
How does your work for this Kips Bay project exemplify your style as a designer – or is it just the opposite, something you have always wanted to try as a designer but haven’t found the client?
“My work over the past 47 years has always evolved. I love every new challenge, and my tackling a garden for this year’s show house is a first. My signature use of color and material is on display here, as well as the inclusion of fascinating furniture and art.”
What does it mean to you to be back participating in Kips Bay New York?
“Having created my first Kips Bay room in 2002 and participated in five others over the years, I enjoy the opportunity to create a vision again.”
What does it mean to you to be part of the 50th anniversary of Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York?
“It is an honor to be one of the 20 talents selected for this fantastic milestone. Having raised over $30 million over the past half century, supporting the fantastic life-altering opportunities of the community is very satisfying.”