Francesca Bodini's Free-Spirited Upstate New York Home
Designed with Rafael de Cárdenas, this house combines comfort and sophistication.
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1A bohemian living space
Francesca Bodini moved away from the perfectionist lifestyle of New York's Upper East Side to build a home on her family's 1,000-acre estate in Upstate New York. As a mother of three, Bodini wanted nothing more than a living space where her children and dogs could feel comfortable. She realized this dream by collaborating with designer Rafael de Cárdenas.
2Custom-designed furniture
The living area near the main entrance features custom sofas by Rafael de Cárdenas upholstered in Dedar fabrics, paired with a Xavier Lavergne coffee table. A 1960s French chaise longue, 1972 Meret Oppenheim side table, and vintage rattan stool complete the setting. The wall displays Allan McCollum's Collection of 90 Drawings, harmonizing with Roman shades made from Holland Sherry textiles.
3Personal art collection
Artworks collected by Bodini over the years find their place throughout the home. Pieces acquired with art advisor Meredith Darrow include ceramics by Kazunori Hamana and Yukiko Kuroda, a lacquered side table by Christophe Delcourt, and Peter Beard's 'Untitled (Picasso Sheet).' These elements enhance the home's personality and warm atmosphere.
4Serene sunroom retreat
Bodini's favorite space, the sunroom, features custom millwork by Studio Townsend and Jouffre. Luteca armchairs, a vintage Lorenzo Burchiellaro coffee table, and a rug from Beni Rugs complete the area. A 1960s French bamboo table with tile inlays stands as one of Bodini's most cherished pieces in this light-filled room.
5Dramatic dining room
The west-facing dining room basks in dramatic sunset light. Espasso chairs by Lina Bo Bardi surround Bodini's custom table atop a Christopher Farr rug. Overhead, a Josef Hoffmann Wiener Werkstätte pendant from Woka Lamps illuminates the space. This area creates an ideal atmosphere for both family meals and entertaining guests.
6Luxurious primary bedroom
The primary bedroom was the one space Bodini wanted to feel 'fancy.' It features a custom bed frame by de Cárdenas upholstered in Pierre Frey fabric, dressed in Matouk linens, and flanked by vintage sconces from Provence. Walls are finished in Limestrong limewash. The ceiling is tented in Dedar Fanfara silk shantung, crowned by a crystal chandelier inherited from Bodini's grandmother.
7Architectural details
Bodini's father Daniele Bodini, an architect and engineer, contributed to the home's design. Working with Raffaella Bortoluzzi Architecture, he ensured the house harmonized with other structures on the estate. The low-slung structure features a bronze-colored sloping roof, stone chimneys, expansive glazing, and teak siding, creating an understated yet impressive architectural statement.
8A personal sanctuary
Francesca Bodini's home represents a sanctuary created for herself and her children after her divorce. Adorned with Rafael de Cárdenas's designs, family heirlooms, and a personal art collection, this house perfectly balances comfort and sophistication. Every carefully chosen detail makes this space an ideal reflection of Bodini's new chapter in life.
Original article: Architectural Digest — Francesca Bodini'nin Upstate New York'taki Özgür Ruhlu Evi