by Debbie Tuma
Five top designers from around the country, were signing their new coffee table books, and mingling with guests at a lovely reception at Mecox Gardens in Water Mill, in August. Susan Kaufman, whose book is titled, “Walk with Me: Hamptons,” wrote her book as a photo tour through some of the most picturesque homes, streets, nature scenes, and hidden treasures throughout the Hamptons. Cathy Purple Cherry, of “Purple Cherry Architects & Interiors,” was showing her new book, “The Design of a Country Estate,” the story of a fabulous, newly built, coastal country estate. She also has a design store headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland.
When asked how she got this unusual name, and if it helps her stand out in her field, she laughed, “My name is Cathy Purple, and I happened to marry a man whose last name was Cherry. It’s kind of a conversation starter, and yes it has helped me stand out.”
Philip Gorrivan’s new book, “Authentic Interiors: Rooms That Tell Stories,” has pages of uniquely designed homes in Manhattan, where he is based, and elsewhere. He is known as a master for creating ambiance with surprising simple gestures, as he conjures up stories. Danielle Rollins of West Palm Beach was showing her large coffee table book, with her impeccable taste, and with lovely photos of herself in the book. Eric Groft owner of Oehme, van Sweden & Associates Landscape Architects, wrote his book called “Beyond Bold: Inspiration/Collaboration/Evolution.” He is known for his diversity in residential, commercial, and residential work.
The afternoon event, which included wine and a lovely spread of hors d’oeuvres, was held inside this location at 1040 Montauk Highway in Water Mill. This upscale store combines a sophisticated yet coastal inspired look for casual, elegant living. It features furniture collections of iron, rattan, rope and teak merchandise, along with custom upholstery and unique mirror designs. The Mecox Collection is exclusive to their 7 stores located around the country in Houston, Dallas, Palm Beach, Los Angeles, Napa, Manhattan and the Hamptons.
The Mecox store originally opened in Southampton in 1996, on a three-acre property with extensive gardens throughout. These expansive grounds and charming rural architecture helped create the Mecox philosophy of taking inspiration from the interior and exterior. Attracting many Hamptons and New York City based interior designers, their original location evolved over the years, and in the Fall of 2022, Mecox Southampton relocated to Water Mill. They still have lovely grounds for their outdoor furniture and garden ornaments.
At the book signing event, Mecox Gardens owner Mac Hoak and manager Kristina Gale greeted guests. They welcome people to come visit their store and check out these exciting new design books.
“We wanted to introduce the authors of these beautiful designer books to our clientelle,” said Hoak. “They are for sale in our store, and fit in nicely with our décor. They will be inspirational to our clients, who are always looking for new decorating ideas, and new ways to improve their homes.”
