Over the years, I have gathered a collection of exquisite 18th-century French chairs. These chairs serve as my canvas and inspire many of my artworks.
Growing up surrounded by the treasures of the Marché aux Puces in Paris, I developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of antique furniture. This early fascination turned into a lifelong passion. As a young adult, I pursued my love for antiques by enrolling in a prestigious trade school in France, mastering 18th-century French upholstery techniques. After completing my studies, I was offered a position at Bergères et Marquises, a renowned company famous for its fine hand-made period furniture reproductions. I spent five years working there and gained valuable experience in antique furniture.
In 2001, I moved to New York City and began working with Pierre Deux, a French antique store. This opportunity allowed me to collaborate with top designers like Christopher Maya, Bunny Williams, and Jeffrey Bilhuber on high-profile commercial and residential projects, utilizing my expertise in French antiques and classic upholstery. Other notable clients included Emma Jane Pilkington and Michael Flanigan.
One of my most memorable projects was the interior design and restoration of a 1939 71' Trumpy motor yacht named Eleanor, once owned by Howard Hughes. Additionally, I restored the ceilings of the Elysian Cafe, a landmark in Hoboken, and an 18th-century farmhouse in Bucks County.
In 2004, I launched Bermingham & Co. on East 60th Street in NYC, where I managed an upholstery workroom and Ikat fabric business for a decade. Today, the fabric can be found at Fortuny in NYC.
In 2020, I embarked on my latest venture, Atelier Kardès, specializing in high-end antique furniture, upholstery, restoration, and fabric design consultations.