Maximalism Strong- A New Book, The Blue Door & Preview Private Tour of John Demsey's Upper East Side Townhouse

A Private Tour of 

Entrepreneur John Demsey's 

Eclectic 6-story Townhouse 

Which is Chronicled in His New Book,

Behind The Blue Door 

I was invited last week to a breakfast and private tour of the talented John Demsey’s townhome on the Upper East Side in New York City. It was a rare opportunity to glimpse at the wonderfully over-the-top home filled with beautiful and whimsical art, color and eclectic design. Perfect timing, as the breakfast and tour was planned at the debut of his new book, The Blue Door published by Vendome Press.

You may know Demsey as the beauty industry pioneer with a 30-year career in the business, including a long stint as a top executive at Estée Lauder where he helped grow the brand into a multi-billion-dollar company. He is also a known philanthropist helping animals, addressing food access challenges, promoting performing arts and fundraising for HIV and AIDS. With all his talent and hard work, it’s no surprise the home he created and curated is a wonder to behold- don’t let the muted exterior of the townhouse on this tree-lined street fool you because once inside the iconic blue door, every room delights in saturated hues and themes. He was inspired by designer David Hicks (one of my personal favorites) showing geometrics and bold patterns together with a mix of old and new furniture and art.

I enjoyed learning his living room palette was first inspired by a pair of Louboutin boots, and he then worked with interior designer BibiMonnahan, to finish the project. It's a Maximalist's dream!

Behind the Blue Door is captured in the book which is written by Alina Cho and photographed by Douglas Friedman, and it is a feast for the eyes with 300 colorful photographs on 236 pages. Published by Vendome, it’s in book stores and online this Fall.

Happy Nesting

XO Tamara