Readers: This is how timeless midcentury modern design IS DONE! What a fantastic amazing mind-blowing find: After the New York Times story ran last week, I was contacted by a realtor who has listed for sale a 1962 house in Montclair, New Jersey — with original interiors, still in place, by the renowned and super important midcentury interior designer William Pahlmann.
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These interiors are a veritable primer — a treasure trove of inspiration and ideas — about how to create stunning — yet timeless — interiors for your midcentury home. Linda, the real estate agent, writes:
Hi Pam,
I loved reading the article in the NYTimes! I’m a Realtor in Montclair NJ and have a house listed that is the most amazing home that I have seen in 25 years of real estate. Built by the owners in 1962 and decorated by Wiliam Pahlmann, a Manhattan decorator w/a newspaper column in the ’60s. The house is exactly as decorated when new… It looks as if it was done yesterday! The jelly beans in the bowls in the living room are color-coordinated to the “summer” slip covers and they will change with the season!
-Linda
Now, I must admit: Until I received this email, I didn’t know anything about William Pahlmann. I am sure that students of interior design must study him. But his name does not seem to be mainstream widespread like many of the most famous architects from back in the day. By the way, I find this to be true time and time again — the names of many professionals who were incredibly influential in the world of interior design and consumer goods in the postwar era have faded — and it’s time that they are resurrected! Another of my goals!
I started to do some online research, and quickly found that Pahlmann was incredibly important in the history of interior design.
He is credited with launching the “eclectic style” that, for the most part, permeates our culture today.
That is: Mixing modern pieces with vintage and exotic pieces. I think these interiors are ALL incredibly livable. And, they look as current Today as ever!
I will write more about Pahlmann coming up. He is someone We Need To Know!
Sigh.
Ann V says
My favorite part is the curtains that match the wallpaper in the kitchen.
Becky P S says
Holy Guacamole! How on earth did they keep it so PERFECT!?!! Beautiful and breathtaking.
Sarah Brown says
if only i could find similar wallpaper for my own kitchen!
Paula P. says
I think this home should be made into a museum for people who wish to be inspired by vintage interior decor and design. Everything looks brand new, like it was furnished yesterday. What a gem!! Such a rare find these days.
Michael says
Holy COW!!! I think if I went to the open house I’d chain myself to the room divider– I want to live there!
I love so much about it, but the pool umbrellas are the cherry on top of this delicious retro sundae for me.
cynthia says
Fantastic decor and house; vitality, fun, function, color plus comfort, yet not sappy or sloppy. My favorite is the last photo of the bedroom. Also, love that big kitchen island with upholstered counter stools!
Chutti says
Wow! This is a stunner!
I’d be hard pressed to pick a favorite thing. But that wallpaper in the kitchen is awfully great.
Inquiring minds DO want to know where the jellybeans are!
This one goes on the dream list for sure.
Edwin says
Beyond stunning – so so so so incredible.
The pictures are well done! There will be one lucky new homeowner soon.
Linda Grotenstein says
Hi,
I’m the Realtor with the wonderful 1962 Pahlmann decorated home! Just want to give a credit to Jeff Bogart, the person who did the photography. He spent a few hours in the house, just absorbing the “vibe” and he took such wonderful photos! There are many other photos and details that are just great including a full soda fountain with syrup dispensers and all, game room, the dressing room in the master bedroom has a lighted vanity, two walk-in closets, shoe closets to accommodate at least 50 pairs of women’s shoes (my favorite!) and a three sided mirror usually only seen in high-end dress shops of the era! I find new treats every time I walk through the house!
-LindG
Ann-Marie Meyers says
It is a gorgeous home, and Jeff did a fantastic job. He is to be commended. I think just about any one of us who subscribes to this site would be more than happy to live in that home if we had the chance. With the furniture, though!
Mary Barker says
OMG! I just emailed my husband to ask if we could please move to New Jersey!