Charles Fazzino

The Art of Emotional Design Designing a home means capturing a feeling rather than following a checklist. When Kate Upton and Justin Verlander transformed their New York City apartment, they moved away from the cold sterility of a typical new build. Collaborating with designer John Ruggiero, they moved past the all-white trend to embrace a palette inspired by Central Park sunsets. This choice proves that color is not just an aesthetic; it is a tool for warmth and intimacy. Reclaiming New York Glamour The living room serves as a masterclass in using saturation to scale. By drenching the space in soft pinks, they visually lowered the ceilings to create a cozy, cocktail-hour atmosphere. This "Shent-house" philosophy prioritizes personality over formality. In the theater room, the mood shifts toward Art Deco nostalgia. Deep tones, wainscoting, and a rare Cher-rivaling lamp transform a standard room into a historic retreat. Even the kitchen avoids utility-only vibes, using green cabinetry and de Gournay wallpaper to bring a touch of the outdoors inside. Function Meets High Fashion Every design choice reflects the couple's unique lifestyle. For an athlete like Verlander, the primary bedroom is a temple of recovery. Beyond the custom Stitch bed, the room features high-tech blackout capabilities, including specialized doorway slats to eliminate light bleed. This shows how high design must serve biological needs. A Legacy of Personality Personality shines in the smaller details, like the custom Charles Fazzino 3D art that cleverly hides Upton's career highlights. The home feels lived-in because it respects the occupants—from the "Genevieve Purple" walls chosen by their daughter to the functional entryway storage for city life. It is a space that favors the narrative over the trend.