Art in The City by Baccarat and Sotheby’s

Art is part of Baccarat’s DNA, as evidenced by the artistic sensibilities of  Georges Chevalier’s Art Deco style, Thomas Bastide’s unconventional designs, and the unique art installations dispersed throughout Baccarat Hotel & Residences New York.  Step into any of Sotheby’s auction locations, and you instantly know that hospitality is part of who they are – they create a welcoming atmosphere as well as access to the art market. The partnership between Baccarat and Sotheby’s could not be any more ideal.

During the May Impressionist & Modern and Contemporary sales, Sotheby’s preferred clients were invited to the Baccarat Lounge at the auction house’s newly renovated New York headquarters on the Upper East Side. Baccarat’s design team and artist Aquarela Sabol used a massive blank gallery to create a welcoming lounge. The satellite salon was filled with classic Baccarat crystal pieces and the hotel’s signature scent which made for a luxurious, relaxing space – and what better way to take a break from the frenzy of New York City and Frieze week than to walk the red carpet before unwinding in an elegant sofa surrounded by dazzling chandeliers and a peaceful garden mural?

The lounge was the ideal space for Sotheby’s Cocktail & Conversations event. At one session of this speaker series, Kemper Hyers, Head of Design for Starwood Capital Group, spoke about the creative process behind the brand’s flagship hotel. Hyers, along with French design team Gilles & Boissier, crafted, designed, and styled the midtown Manhattan property. Hyers’ inspiration for the project was a Parisian Hôtel particulier, but with a special touch. The property combines the artistry and craftsmanship so deeply rooted in the brand, adding a touch of glamour and seduction for guests to “see the world through crystal”.

Meanwhile, the Petit Salon at the hotel became the gathering location for Sotheby’s Preferred clients throughout the May sales. The highlight of this members-only alcove was the reception hosted by Katharine Thomas and Nate Borgelt of Sotheby’s to showcase the highlights of the forthcoming Important Watches Sale. The tranquil and intimate salon was the perfect location for expert dealers to have a closer look at the rare yellow gold Patek Philippe up for auction. Add a cocktail and a limited edition, art-inspired truffle by Vosges chocolates, and the evening was perfect.