Finding Design Inspiration at The Met and Capping It Off at Don Angie

There’s nothing quite like a visit to New York City to recharge your creative spirit. On a recent trip, I spent the afternoon wandering the galleries of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and it was a reminder of why I love what I do. Great design whether in a painting, a sculpture, or a beautifully furnished room tells a story.

The Met is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about interiors. From the rich textures in ancient tapestries to the intricate patterns in art, each offered a fresh idea. I found myself snapping photos of color palettes I wouldn’t have thought to combine, admiring the mix of metals, woods, and stone, and mentally bookmarking the way light plays against different materials.

One highlight was standing in front of the Impressionist paintings, noticing how layers of soft, seemingly random brushstrokes could come together to create something deeply moving. It reminded me that interiors, too, are built from layers. These layers create a subtle, beautiful, and personal space.

After a day of soaking up inspiration, we headed downtown to Don Angie, a cozy West Village gem that perfectly balances tradition and innovation. The atmosphere was inviting and warm just like their famous pinwheel lasagna! Sitting there with my family, surrounded by soft lighting, and the hum of happy conversation, I realized that great spaces like great meals leave you feeling connected, cared for, and a little more alive.

Design is everywhere, if you know where to look. Sometimes it is in a centuries-old painting. Sometimes it is in the perfect corner booth. And sometimes, if you are lucky, it’s in both.

A beautiful night with family at Don Angie’s.