Decorated (Decorated Podcast, Will Fryer, and Cotter Christian)

Step into the vibrant world of 1980s New York City nightlife as we explore the revolutionary design and cultural impact of iconic clubs like Studio 54 and Infinity. From innovative lighting techniques and theatrical elements to the way these spaces shaped community and identity, this episode uncovers how nightclubs became more than just venues for dancing - they were transformative spaces that influenced residential design and provided sanctuary for marginalized groups. Featuring fascinating interviews with club owners, designers, and scene insiders, including Lee Soulja's incredible story of sneaking into Studio 54 as a teenager, we examine how these spaces used design elements like neon lighting, moving architecture, and dramatic spatial effects to create unforgettable experiences.

In Episode 3, Cotter and Will explore the formation of an industry giant: Architectural Digest. During the 1970’s and 80’s, the magazine became a major force in the industry, offering readers a glimpse of the world’s most luxurious interiors; and designers, a chance to become stars. Join us as we explore AD’s immersive photography, the complicated legacy of Editor in Chief, Paige Rense, and the allure and peril of aspirational media.In Episode 3, Cotter and Will delve into the rise of a major player in the industry: Architectural Digest. During the 1970s and 80s, the magazine emerged as a significant force, providing readers with a glimpse of the world's most luxurious interiors and offering designers the opportunity to become stars. Join us as we explore Architectural Digest's stunning photography, the complex legacy of Editor-in-Chief Paige Rense, and the captivating yet risky nature of aspirational media.

In this special episode, recorded live at Parsons School of Design, we explore the profound impact of the HIV/AIDS crisis on interior design, activism, and memory. Hosts Cotter Christian and Will Fryer moderate a panel discussion with artists, historians, and designers, delving into how interior spaces served as sites of resistance, community, and care. Featuring insights from Stan Walden, Jamie Drake, Ivan Munuera, and Gavin Browning, this conversation sheds light on the overlooked histories of design’s role in shaping queer spaces, preserving memory, and responding to crisis. For more, view the show notes here.

In Episode 4 of Decorated, hosts Cotter Christian and Will Freyer are joined by architectural historian Timothy M. Rohan to explore the dazzling interplay between NYC’s 1970s and 80s nightlife and home design. The episode dives into the cultural influence of clubs like Studio 54 on interior trends, including minimalist platforms, neon lighting, and the privatization of space. From ephemeral disco-inspired apartments to the lasting legacy of nightlife aesthetics, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how interiors became stages for identity and lifestyle. For full show notes and links to resources, visit: Episode 4: Bringing the Disco Home.

Wild nightclub interiors, the VonFurstenburgs, Melvin Dwork, HIV/AIDs, and other topics are up for discussion as we explore the world of interior design in 1980s and '90s NYC. Episode 1 drops on October 30!

In the second episode of Decorated, Cotter and Will dive deep into the intersections of gender and interior design, guided by the lavish world of Prince Egon von Furstenberg’s 1980 book The Power Look at Home: Decorating for Men. Join us as we discuss how masculinity, invigorated by the all-time high divorce rates of the 1980s, popularized a new interior design culture that manifested itself in the chosen habitat of the affluent single man, the bachelor pad. Click here to view links and show notes.

Research and editing support for this episode by Olive Jones, Paul Rochford, Kanishka Puri and Naniyah McClain.

In the first episode of Decorated, we cover the life and work of Melvin Dwork, a New York City interior designer who received an "undesirable" discharge from the U.S. Navy in 1944 for being gay. While Dwork is mostly known for his activism - he fought to overturn his discharge, and was the first to successfully do so - his work in interior design is famous in its own right for mixing old and new in an harmonious and timeless way. Join Will and Cotter as they recount his story and examine his work within the vibrant context of 1980s NYC.

This episode features music and scoring by Peter Mark Kendall. Research and editing support by Chitrakshi Chelawat and Stan Walden, with additional support from Olive Jones, Paul Rochford, Kanishka Puri and Naniyah McClain.