Incollect Magazine - Issue 11

Incollect Magazine 53 WALKER TOWER PIED-À TERRE, NEWYORK CITY, 2019 Walker Tower is named for architect Ralph Thomas Walker, who completed the Art Deco skyscraper for New York Telephone in 1929. It was one in a mental list Torrey compiled of New York buildings he hoped to work in one day; the residences are known for their elegant proportions and outstanding views. When these clients, collectors of photography and sculptural glass, called upon him for an extensive re-do, and he checked one building off his bucket list. The first task was to enhance the envelope: new floors were installed with hand- beveled floorboards to accentuate the chevron pattern. New millwork and moldings added vintage character and charm. A photograph of Kate Moss by legendary fashion photographer Arthur Elgort hangs above a custom sofa by Torrey. At the windows, a pair white “Hoof” armchairs with black metal and brass frames by French designer Aloys Waldisphul are paired with a side table of stacked oxidized copper-clad wood disks by Italian designer Mauro Monti. A contemporary charcoal gray armchair is in the style of Jean Royère’s 1940s ‘Ours Polaire’ design. The brass and glass coffee table is vintage 1970s, and the patinated bronze “Openwork’ stool/side table is by Eric Schmitt for Maison Liaigre. Atop a plinth, the kilncast glass sculpture is Blind Tracery by British glass artist Colin Reid, the glass vessel sculpture is Citrine Agate Geode by Angela Jarman. The torso sculpture is June of Youth, and a 1950s cast bronze work by Leon Underwood. Photo by Douglas Friedman Andrew Torrey, New York City, 2023. Photo by Manolo Yllera