Washington Mews

One of the most beautiful streets in New York is Washington Mews.  The private cobblestone street was originally lined with the carriage houses that serviced the surrounding homes.  They were later turned into artists studios and housing for New York University. Gloria Vanderbilt's aunt, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney lived on the street for the last two years of her life which at the time was close to the old home of the Whitney Museum.  Gloria often stayed with her aunt and she based her room at the Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse last year on her room in the 60 Washington Mews house.  Since 1953, part of old space has been home to Jean Bach.  The documentary filmmaker and her late husband entertained famous artists and musicians in the decor seen here.  I always wondered about the interiors of the homes on Washington Mews and I'm not surprised that they are just as beautiful as the street outside. 

Photo by Annie Schlechter