Living in a West Village town house is a dream shared by many New Yorkers. When Andy and John Porter and their two kids were lucky enough to get upgraded from Manhattan Inclusive Building a one-story brick-faced example on a cobblestone street, he made his dream come true. Complete with a detached carriage house, accessed via a covered horse walk, one of the city’s last survivors, the residence, built in 1859, was first renovated to scenic effect. However, its interior required a major overhaul to suit the needs and tastes of the Cooley family.
Although Andi is a retired interior designer, she wanted to collaborate with another professional on the decor. She was drawn to the work of New York-based talent Starrett Ringbaum on social media, and a mutual friend connected them. Their styles were exactly the same. “I love color, prints and patterns, and Starrett has a similar appreciation. Aesthetically, I thought we were very like-minded,” says Andy, who now works as creative director Left LaneA hospitality and real estate development firm founded by her husband.
