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Decorator Alex Papachristidis Shops Contemporary Living

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“How chic is it to have a French 18th-century chair next to a steel Maria Pergay chair with contemporary art in the background?” asks interior decorator Alex Papachristidis. While many would find this mélange of styles intimidating to execute, Papachristidis fully embraces the art of mixing. “To me, when you live with individual taste, that’s real style.” Born and raised on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Papachristidis is internationally admired for his saturated colours, attention to detail and use of eclectic influences ever since establishing his firm in 1987. Now bringing his astute eye and knowledge of decorative art history to Sotheby’s, Papachristidis shopped our cross-category Contemporary Living sale to share his best tips for blending contemporary and traditional interiors. Click ahead to discover his favourite lots and why he believes that “if you’re collecting great art, you should also be collecting great furniture.” –Stephanie Sporn

Contemporary Living
28 July | New York

Decorator Alex Papachristidis Shops Contemporary Living

  • Josef Albers, I-S G (Danilowitz 207). Estimate $1,500–2,500.
    “I adore the blend of colour and geometry in this piece  and think the Albers looks beautiful mixed with antique furniture.” 

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  • John Dickinson, “African” Side Table. Estimate $8,000–12,000.
    “John Dickinson is a favourite designer of mine. He has incredible sensibility. I would love this piece  as a side table next to an 18th century chair or a contemporary upholstered chair.”  

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  • Robert Polidori, Cabinet des Beautées, Château de Versailles. Estimate $20,000–30,000.
    “This print has incredible detail, and I love this 18th Century interior used in a contemporary way. It adds depth to any space, and I love anything Versailles.”  

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  • Pablo Picasso, Visage dans un carré (A. R. 353). Estimate $7,000–10,000.


    “This dish is a wonderful way to own something by a great genius for a reasonable price. It is beautiful and sculptural.” 

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  • Finn Juhl, “Judas” Dining Table. Estimate $8,000–12,000.


    “I find this table super elegant, and it would be stylish in any interior. I adore the simplicity and beauty of this table, and I love the silver inlaid top.” 

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  • Patrice Dangel, Monumental Chandelier. Estimate $6,000–8,000.


    “I love this white plaster chandelier for its sculptural form and scale. It’s monumental.” 

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  • Pierre Paulin, “Mushroom” Chair and Ottoman, Model No. 560. Estimate $1,500–2,000.
    “This chair has a fun shape and is easy to use, which is why I like incorporating these kinds of pieces into kids’ rooms. It’s incredibly stylish and whimsical.”     

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  • Alberto Giacometti, Chaise et Guéridon (Lust 33). Estimate $3,000–5,000.


    “I love anything Alberto Giacometti. This drawing is beautiful, elegant and timeless. It would look great in a living room in the Hamptons.” 

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