We’re back with a new guest tastemaker for some quick-fire questions and a mini-curation of some fab Chairish finds!
This week, we are joined by Frederick Tang and Barbara Reyes of the Brooklyn-based Frederick Tang Architecture. The two have an undeniably impressive resume. A graduate of the Yale School of Architecture, Frederick worked at prestigious architecture firms prior to starting his own. Barbara, the interior design mind of the operation, has worked at Barneys New York, Redken, and Oprah. Before joining Frederick Tang Architecture, she was a creative director at Condé Nast where she led design and photography direction for editorials featuring Gwyneth Paltrow, Serena Williams, Jennifer Lopez, and more.
Together, the pair construct lively, yet casual, interiors that emphasize brightly muted color schemes and statement-making vintage pieces. Because of the distinct architectural focus of the firm, their interiors expertly utilize and adapt to the form of the space. Read on to discover Frederick and Barbara’s design must-haves and plans for the new year!
You’re known for creating unique and whimsical children’s rooms. What are some of your favorite elements to incorporate into kids spaces’?
Barbara Reyes: We love designing kids’ rooms because it’s a chance to create a space that showcases personality and celebrates youth. Our favorite way to achieve that is by mixing and matching the palette through unexpected color pairings or clashing patterns or textures.
Frederick Tang: With kids’ rooms, storage is key. We always try to integrate closed cabinet storage for toys, games, clutter, and clothes, along with open shelves for books, LEGO creations, photographs, and art. It’s really great to give kids a space to display objects that are meaningful to them.
Can you give us details on any upcoming design projects that the firm has slated for 2022?
FT: We have several residential projects in Manhattan and Brooklyn, but also a large renovation in Gallatin in Upstate New York, as well as an exciting mountain home in Bozeman, Montana.
What’s one trend you’re hoping to see more of in 2022? What’s one trend you’re hoping retires?
BR: We would love to see all white interiors (unless it’s a museum and/or the client can handle the colorless space) and faux distressed decor or faux finishes—we say go for the real thing!—to retire. We would also like to see more sustainability and use of natural materials. We love colored concrete but have not found the right project for it!
FT: We really hope to see more big, fun patterns—houndstooth, gingham, checker, paisley—in surprising fresh color combinations. And, we really don’t have to see another “reclaimed wood” shelf again!
Do you collect anything?
BR: Not really. I try to buy what I love, and sometimes I tend to purchase the same thing over and over.
FT: When I was younger, I used to be more specific about collecting a certain category of object—Jens Quistgaard wrought iron candle holders, Ben Seibel ceramics, Paul McCobb pitchers. But now, I feel like my purchases are more eclectic.
When you’re not working, where can we find you?
BR: Any museum or Dough—obsessed with their donuts.
FT: When I’m not working, I’m most likely with my kids. I have a six-year-old and an eight-year-old and taking them to play dates, the park, activities, and parties can be a full-time job!
