I just love a weird coincidence!

Earlier today, I was chatting with Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch of vanguard New York interiors firm Roman and Williams—not about the chic homes they’ve kitted out for bigwigs Gwyneth and Kate Hudson (the design duo is very discreet), but about redoing the iconic Royalton Hotel’s public areas. Among other topics, the designers dished on the challenges of reworking the windowless rear dining room, above, into a stunning eatery, now named Brasserie 44 (and run by John McDonald of Lever House and Lure Fish bar fame). “Because it’s kind of a cul-de-sac back there, we wanted to make it lighter than the surrounding spaces,” explains Robin. “It’s a beacon to lure you in from the lobby.” In addition to subtly evocative details like honeyed-teak millwork and wall dividers of intertwined rope, the space is enlivened by mesmerizing blown-glass fixtures emitting a moonlit, gaslight glow that’s flattering to both the space and its sexy patrons.

Fast forward a few hours: I’m checking out Brooklyn glass artist John Pomp’s website to see if he’s previewing new goodies yet. And what do I find? In addition to his architectonic vases (below) and clever accessories, I discovered that he is also the behind-the-scenes fabricator responsible for the Brasserie 44’s fabulous orbs!

Caught the glassblowing bug yourself? Drop by one sixty glass, his Williamsburg studio/shop, and take a class. I was bummed to see that I just missed the beer-mug-making workshop, but perhaps that was no coincidence–a sign from a higher power discouraging me from mixing drinking and design? Hmmm…. –Jen Renzi

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