Within the eclectic mix of stores populating the Lower East Side, we have what often feels like infinite choices when it comes to shopping, especially for décor. But head and shoulders above many a fine retailer is designer John Derian’s shop. A short jaunt from the One Manhattan Square condos, John Derian Company is the place to discover those hard-to-find hand-painted vintage and new-theme ornaments that will make your home shine this holiday season. They’ll also make your houseguests envious as they gaze upon your one-of-a-kind decorations (and the furnishings they accent all the year through).
With the help of a small team of artisans, Derian creates all manner of ceramics, furniture, and ephemera that can be found in upscale shops around the world. But to get a close-up and personal view of his work, head over to his East Village location and fully experience the ever-evolving assortment of his wares, imports, and other items in a store that has been prominently featured in the pages of Elle Decor, Vanity Fair, Bon Appétit, New York Magazine, GQ, and other publications. And, of course, this is also the place to be for the season’s latest and best decorative options.
John’s decoupage — part of his initial offerings when he launched in 1989 — is created in-house, right here in NYC, and forms the basis for a full seasonal assortment of original, unique pieces. These seasonal motifs bring instant charm and a classic sense of holiday festivity to any decorating scheme. Turkeys, holiday trees, holly, and wreaths will warm your home throughout the winter, while doves, stags, and poinsettias can transition to other times of year with a bit of creative placement and incorporation.
To add some merriment to your shelves, Ino Schaller papier mâché Santas, imported from Germany, offer a warm texture when placed next to another holiday staple: toys, especially those by Steiff. Makers of the original teddy bear (in 1902), Steiff’s current line features a variety of popular modern and classic characters, such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and a host of other animal figures, like the Bully Bulldog Puppy, Chari Cat, and Siro Panda. All are certain to add a whimsical dash of childhood delight to any home.
While the holiday season brings endless inspiration for home décor, don’t limit your creative instincts and drive to just this one part of the year. John Derian Company brings you selections for every part of your home that will be the envy of your friends come spring, summer, fall, and winter. But during the cold season, we love to start our decorating with textiles. Rag rugs followed by hand-stitched coverlets and soft wool throw blankets are just the thing to warm a space through those months following the ringing in of the new year. Myriad stylings of glassware and mugs provide just the right vessels for everything ranging from the steamy coziness of a hot toddy to the crisp refreshment of an April mint julep. Stock your cupboards with a variety of plates and dinnerware that will make every meal its own work of art, be it a lively Fourth of July barbecue or a quiet dinner with your in-laws. Bog and Butterfly chairs, along with a Dromedary sofa, can add just the right amounts of both class and comfort to your sitting area, especially when accented by Dragonfly, Bouquet, or Butterfly pillows, each a conversation starter on its own.
For one-of-a-kind furnishings that will make your home the envy of your social circle, there’s no better bet than the fun and charm you will find in the offerings at the John Derian Company.