It began with event planning and floral design. Robert Bardin (standing) and Robert Palomo discovered that they had a talent for transforming ordinary spaces into dazzling backdrops for lavish weddings and society soirees. Their résumé includes beautiful surroundings and floral arrangements for such clients as Bergdorf Goodman, party planner and TV host Colin Cowie, the New York City Ballet, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
This past winter, the design duo decided to use their knack for devising alluring event environments to convert part of their Manhattan studio into a chic loft-like retail showroom.
The Bardin Palomo Collection is located in a walk-up in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. The industrial-looking exterior belies the elegant assortment of furniture, accessories, and artwork you’ll find in the third-floor showroom. (The collection has been meticulously accumulated over the past 12 years.) Highlights range from a 1950s Italian lacquered bar by Aldo Tura to a Victorian wire garden set and abstract art from artists such as Mary Clare Galvin.
"We’ve always looked at the entire picture when transforming an environment," says Palomo. "Creating should be a magical process, and our collection will, hopefully, help others realize their own visions."
Getting There
Bardin Palomo is located at 432 W. 19th Street (between 9th and 10th avenues) in New York City and is open from 10 to 4 Monday through Friday or by appointment. For information, call 212/989-6113 or visit bardinpalomo.com.
Photography: John Bessler
