July 6, 2025 | DESIGN & INTERIORS
a BOHEMIAN PIED-À-TERRE in WEST CHELSEA
words Laura Cottrell
photos Patrick Xiong
interior design Tannehill Interiors
stylist Tannehill Interiors Samantha Tannehill, Oliver Rumney and Susan Van Tassel
Nestled in the heart of West Chelsea—just steps from the High Line—this colorful pied-à-terre captures the spirit of Manhattan living with a laid-back, bohemian twist. Designed by Samantha Tannehill of Tannehill Interiors, the space offers a vibrant retreat that channels the energy of the city while feeling deeply personal, grounded, and serene.
From the moment you enter, it’s clear that this home is all about mood and material. The walls are coated in Farrow & Ball’s ever-changing Dimity, setting the tone for a journey of texture and tone. Vintage finds meet playful patterns, and rich hues—from navy kitchen cabinetry to a bold green dining nook—anchor the apartment’s personality. Inspired by the homeowners’ extensive travels through Africa, the interiors weave together global references, curated art, and handcrafted details to create a layered, soulful space.
Samantha Tannehill, who happened to live down the hall from the clients, recalls how the design process began almost by chance. “There was a flood in their apartment, and that led to conversations about contractors and flooring,” she says. “Eventually, we ended up creating a home that feels like a true extension of who they are.”
Throughout the home, textures play a leading role. Bouclé chairs, velvet pillows, linen wallpapers, and natural woven baskets come together to form a tactile experience that’s both cozy and elevated. The guest bedroom features enveloping pink walls and a floral wallpaper from Mitchell Black, while the main suite is wrapped in a warm, textured Art Deco pattern from Dedar. In the hallway, a gallery wall showcases artwork collected during the family’s philanthropic travels in Africa—subtle nods to culture and craft that inform the color palette and overall mood.
The kitchen underwent one of the most dramatic transformations: what was once standard-issue wood cabinetry is now painted in Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore, enhanced with classic Schoolhouse hardware. The result is a space that feels timeless, bold, and deeply personal.
In the dining nook, a custom green banquette sits beneath a Lloyd pendant by Soho Home, adding another punch of color and comfort. Lighting and furniture throughout the home—from the scallop chandelier in the entry to the Theodore armchair in the living room—enhance the eclectic yet considered feel of the apartment.
For Tannehill, the aim was always to create a space filled with positive energy. “We wanted the homeowners to walk in and instantly feel at ease,” she says. “It’s joyful, it’s grounded—and most importantly, it feels like home.”
