DEMYSTIFYING DESIGN

The formidable Michaels twins. They define tall, tan, and terrific!

Recently when I was taping a segment for the fabulous folks at Editor at Large on 1st Dibs@NYDC I met the glorious sister/twins design duo Jayne and Joan Michaels of 2Michaels Design. They are not only statuesque and fabulously nice, but their work is incredible and they have an impeccable eye.

A glorious, spare interior by 2Michaels. Um. Chic!

And anyone with a Jayne Mansfield moniker is A-OK in my book, n’est-ce pas?

The sisters are currently at work on a table installation for DIFFA as I type this blog installment, but they very graciously answered my questions in spite of the late hour and the stress of pulling together something marvelous for such a good cause. If you are headed to the DIFFA cocktail party tonight (March 17th), check out their work and laud these hard-working lasses.

Head's up! Jayne Mansfield gives a big ole thumbs up to Miss Jayne Michaels.

Here’s a brief on what to expect from Les Mademoiselles Michaels:

The Michael sisters have teamed up with Roche Bobois, the perfect partner to set their unique table, which pays homage to natural tranquility. Roche Bobois’ Horizon table and bench embrace rustic elegance, nature in the city.  Adding the Syntaxe chairs creates a wonderful mixture of industrial undertones that offset the pure lines, a theme that is further emphasized with the bold Shakti floor lamp.  The table setting, inspired by 19th-century industrialization, will motivate each guest to participate in a labor of love for the good cause. Once again, the 2Michaels have used their peaceful designs to touch and inspire visitors.

Bravo, Jayne and Joan!!! You inspire us.

Here are a few question for these tantalizing twins:

1. Tell us a little bit about your involvement with DIFFA.

Through a friend and fellow designer, we were asked to participate last year in Dining by Design, and we couldn’t resist when we were asked again this year. The people involved are sublime human beings,  gracious, giving, generous, supportive, etc. The cause is vitally important to everyone: helping those afflicted with AIDS.

2. What look or sensibility did you want to create in your installation for DIFFA.

Support DIFFA, the Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS!

We came up with a concept of an industrial sewing room at the turn of the century. We created a wall collage using FLOR carpet tiles and plywood. Joan came up with the “totem poles ” which are spools of threads. The gigantic floor lamp was just the right gesture for the space.

3. What do you love about Roche Bobois?

The variety of styles of furniture.  We were obviously well aware of Roche Bobois as a major source for modern furniture, but, I confess, we were astounded by the depth and variety of choices. I’m also amazed at the iconic pieces that they carry, many of which are in design museums.

4. What other projects do you have on the table?

We are working on an apartment on the Upper West Side, a country house in New Paltz, and a TriBeCa loft.  I’m also re-doing my apartment.

Gio Ponti: The Complete Work. If it's good enough for a Michaels sister, sign us up!

5. Favorite design book?

Gio Ponti: The Complete Work.

6. Please pick an item from Anthropologie.com that you love.

Fabulous Bronze Age flatware from Anthropologie, a Michaels must-have item.

Bronze Age Flatware. It’s utterly chic, simple, and just offbeat enough to make it interesting.

7. What are your summer plans?

Amagansett, can’t wait!

The 2Michaels table from the 2010 DIFFA event. Don't miss their latest creation for this year's DIFFA to-do!

8. Dream project?

Designing a home for an artist.