The interiors created by Stephen Bastone are as sensual as they are sophisticated, as modern as they are classic.
In his adept hands, this marriage of Old World forms with 21st century style is seamless, yet the contrast is bracing — much like the designer himself.
Born in New York and gifted with magnetic appeal, he was spotted early on by the likes of Donatella Versace and Vivienne Westwood, who flew this 6’1′ hulk to Milan and Paris to walk their runways.
A ten-year apprenticeship with Vincent Fourcade introduced him to interior design based on the finest 19th-century craftsmanship, as well as to an urbane social milieu that included Diana Vreeland, Jayne Wrightsman and Annette de la Renta.
Stephen has also been a long term associate of Alberto Pinto’s Paris atelier, where he has helped produce some of the most opulent interiors of our time. One of the best kept secrets in the New York design world, Bastone now creates completely bespoke interiors for a very select group of clients.
Q
What was the first investment piece of furniture that you purchased?
A.
My first investment piece was a French Empire bed. I purchased it from a dealer at the time, Paul Martini.
Q
Are you a dog or cat person?
A.
Definitely Dog:)
Q
What is the best gift you have ever received?
A.
I received a pair of beautiful Jar cufflinks for my 25th birthday: rock crystal and platinum. I regret to this day that I sold them at Christie’s. I knew the designer did not like his pieces to come up at auction but I did it anyway. Youth…
Q
What are the three things you cannot live without?
A.
My film noir, Silvio (my chihuahua from Russia), and pasta.
Q
How did you get started in this field?
A.
I originally wanted to work in advertising, but wound up assisting Vincent Fourcade of Denning and Fourcade. He was a decorator who brought the Rothchild look to America in the 80’s. At the time, All the the heavy hitters wanted an “old money” look. He was the real deal as he came from an aristocratic French banking family.
Q
What is the best thing about shopping in person?
A.
For thirty years of my career, New York was chockfull of antique shops. One could walk a few blocks and be confronted with so many gorgeous things. To instantly see or touch things allowed me to make accurate condition assessments for items in the New York auctions. I was sourcing for Alberto Pinto at the time. I was lucky to be able to not only have my own clients, but to be able to search out and purchase items for his worldwide clients, which I did for twenty years. This is why Newel was heaven on earth. Each floor had a different style, and things were just stacked….. You felt the grit, the age, and the life of a piece….. It was almost a religious experience.
Q
How would you define your work in three words?
A.
Opulent, Lush, Elegant
Q
Who is your role model and why?
A.
My role model is Vincent Fourcade because of his authenticity. He lived with exquisite taste and grace. From the way he dressed, the way he ran his house, his business. to his management of social relations, his comport was flawless and elegant. And, his decision to bring this beautiful French style of living to America when he did, is much to be admired and an honor to emulate.
