I called New York City home for 12 years. Here are some of my go-to spots for inspiration, discovery and enjoyment. 

New York Public Library Art & Architecture Collection

I love to visit the Art & Architecture Room when I am doing research for a new project or searching for inspiration in general. I request books that intrigue me and spend a day reading, looking at images, taking notes, scanning pages of particular interest. They have everything you could ever think of, from old exhibition catalogues to out-of-print artist monographs. Admire the ceiling of the Rose Reading Room on your way in. Enjoy a coffee in Bryant Park on the way out. You need a NYPL library card and an appointment.

Room 300

New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018

Chelsea Flea

An iconic flea market on 25th street between 6th Ave and Broadway. I always spot Lynn Yaeger here, and once got a Takeshi Nii footstool for $40. There is a man who usually has his stand in the far corner towards 6th avenue who sells good Scandinavian vintage objects. I also like the costume jewelry stands. 

Saturdays and Sundays

29 W 25th St, New York, NY 10010

Judd Foundation

101 Spring street is a live/work space situated in a former textile factory in Soho. Donald Judd treated his environments as if they were works of art. Each floor has a designated function: sleeping, eating, working. He designed his own furniture, collected artwork from his friends and brought home objects that he found interesting from his travels. 

By appointment

101 Spring St, New York, NY 10012

Mast Books

This bookstore in the East Village has the best selection of art and design books. Sometimes they will sell off someone's rare book collection. Sometimes there is a small exhibit. I always make some kind of discovery and walk away filled with inspiration. 

72 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009

Bar Oliver

A perfect day-to-night cafe, restaurant and bar in Chinatown. My favorite place for coffee and frittata in the morning and a spritz towards the evening.

1 Oliver St, New York, NY 10038