Analisse Taft-Gersten has spent decades shaping interior design trends, but her latest project is perhaps her most personal. Alongside her husband James Gersten, the designer behind The 1818 Collective turned their Sag Harbor holiday home into a permanent residence. The project required a departure from their previous approach, as the couple sought to downsize into a space that functions as an intimate jewel box.
The renovation of this 1950s shingle-clad cottage was extensive. Despite keeping the original exterior walls, the interior was gutted to the studs. Analisse aimed to infuse the property with the aesthetic of a Swedish cottage. This meant returning rough-cut wood to the living room walls, exposing ceilings, and incorporating natural stone and brass finishes. Every choice was intentional, aimed at balancing timeless character with practical, everyday living.
Space efficiency became the core priority for the design. Analisse compares the interior layout to a boat, where every square inch serves a purpose. Bespoke storage is integrated throughout the home, including clever solutions in the basement for seasonal wardrobe rotation. This approach removed clutter and allowed the home to remain airy and functional despite the smaller footprint.
Beyond the structural changes, the home reflects the surrounding Sag Harbor environment. The bedroom design incorporates wavy headboards and bubble mirrors to mimic the nearby water. Soft, neutral tones create a calm environment for the couple and their two labradoodles. While designing for oneself often brings a unique set of challenges and doubts, the result is a quiet retreat that perfectly meets the needs of its owners.