Podcast Summary: "Can Design Save a Historic American Town?"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Chairish Podcast
• Host: Michael Boodro, Chairish Inc.
• Episode Title: Can Design Save a Historic American Town?
• Release Date: August 30, 2023
• Description: Hosted by design-insider Michael Boodro, The Chairish Podcast explores the evolving interior design industry. This episode focuses on the revitalization of Hudson, New York, through the lens of design and creativity, featuring insights from local dealers, designers, and a renowned photographer.

Introduction to Hudson's Revival

Michael Boodro opens the episode by tracing the history of Hudson, New York. Founded in the late 18th century by whalers, Hudson became the first incorporated city in the United States. Its prosperity peaked due to its strategic location on the Hudson River, attracting renowned artists from the Hudson River School, including Frederic Church and Albert Bierstadt, whose paintings showcased the region's natural beauty.

However, the latter half of the 20th century brought decline as industries closed and local resorts shut down, leading to economic downturns. Recently, Hudson has experienced a renaissance driven not by traditional industries but by antique dealers, designers, and style influencers, transforming it into a vibrant hub for fine shopping, dining, and design.

Guest Introductions

Michael introduces his guests:

• Hannah Khatchadourian: Owner of Modern Exchange on Hudson's Main Street since 2020, offering a curated selection of mid-century Scandinavian and eclectic modern furnishings.

• Nick Olson: An Elle Decor A List Designer known for his colorful, quirky interiors. He owns weekend homes in the Hudson River Valley, restoring 18th-century farmhouses with a focus on Americana and comfort.

• William Abranowicz: A renowned New York photographer who maintains a family retreat in the western Catskills. He recently published "Country Homes of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River Valley," documenting 20 homes and studios of prominent creatives.

The Transformation of Hudson

[02:06] Michael Boodro: "The town has been so transformed. I'm always amazed when I go how many restaurants, I mean shops, antique shops, new brand branded shops. It's amazing how there's been this renaissance and I'd love to get a sense."

Hannah's Journey: Hannah shares her transition from nursing to the design business, launching Modern Exchange in 2017. In 2020, she expanded to Warren Street just before the COVID-19 pandemic, a move fraught with uncertainty. She observes significant changes, noting an influx of families post-COVID, which has diversified her clientele beyond primarily designers to a broader demographic seeking various styles for their homes.

William on Architectural Diversity: William discusses the diverse architectural styles emerging in the region, from rustic cabins to modernist masterpieces. He emphasizes the economic ripple effect from Hudson into surrounding areas like the western Catskills and the Delaware Valley, highlighting how affordability and community involvement have been pivotal in sustaining Hudson's growth.

[05:23] Michael Boodro: "It seems to me that Hudson really was revitalized by design and designers. Is that a fair thing to say?"

Hannah Khatchadourian: "I really do. I think that there's been some, you know, Vince Mulford, like, he was a really iconic designer who came with so much vision and had that beautiful, you know, the tin ballroom that's now Westerland. But I think that designers and also dealers alike really revitalized together."

William Abranowicz: "Designers in particular and antiques dealers, creative people in those endeavors, and artists. It was affordable to live here as well. It was nice. It was a community that was building and that had been going on for a very, very long time."

Affordability and Gentrification Concerns

Michael raises the issue of increasing rents and affordability:

[16:11] Michael Boodro: "It's not as affordable as used to be. I mean, Hannah, I'm sure your rents haven't gone down."

Hannah Khatchadourian: "No, they're like right up there with the city, like Manhattan. I mean, they're crazy. They really are. And I think that that's going to. It's difficult. Cause once that starts to happen, I think that the affordability and the accessibility, like the fact that we were like the difference between Hudson and the Hamptons, you know, the Hamptons is a huge commitment to get there."

William Abranowicz: "Satellite towns like Livingston Manor and new art spaces are emerging, diversifying the region's appeal and economic benefits, though some poverty remains."

Nick Olson: Nick shares his personal experience purchasing and renovating his second home, noting the difficulty in finding reliable contractors. He also emphasizes the importance of community gratitude and the charm of Hudson, contrasting it with more commercialized areas.

Community Involvement and Preservation

Hannah highlights the collaborative efforts among dealers to maintain Hudson's charm through events like "Winter Walk," window displays, and participation in local holidays and parades. She reflects on Hudson's past reputation for being dangerous but underscores how the design and art communities have played a pivotal role in changing its image.

[28:25] Nick Olson: "Maintaining it is expensive to maintain historic structures. People have to understand the value of that."

Hannah Khatchadourian: "The design community and antiques have played a neutral role, helping to lift the area's charm and economic standing."

Future Prospects and Sustainability

The guests discuss the sustainability of Hudson's revival:

• Nick believes that the maker and creative aspect will continue to fuel Hudson's growth, and that the economic benefits will outweigh potential resentments from locals.

• Hannah is optimistic but cautious, noting the need for continued creativity among dealers to keep designers engaged and to adapt to changing market conditions.

• William emphasizes the region's vastness and potential, suggesting that as long as people continue to produce and maintain affordability, the renaissance can persist.

[34:35] Michael Boodro: "It's a choose your own adventure. There's a space for everybody."

Hannah Khatchadourian: "Authenticity and the ability to be oneself are key attractions for Hudson."

Conclusion: Design as a Catalyst for Change

The episode concludes with the guests reaffirming the integral role of design and the creative community in Hudson's revival. They advocate for continued support of local makers, designers, and entrepreneurs to sustain the town's charm and economic growth.

Notable Quotes:

• Hannah Khatchadourian [02:06]: "We have to be kind of creative in ways to keep designers interested."

• Nick Olson [21:13]: "It was really meant to be."

• William Abranowicz [37:51]: "It's a magic town."

• Hannah Khatchadourian [39:40]: "People can be their authentic self."

Final Thoughts: Michael encourages listeners to explore Hudson and the broader Hudson Valley region, highlighting events like Field and Supply's fall Maker's Fair on October 6th. He emphasizes the region's beauty, authenticity, and the unique opportunities it offers to designers and visitors alike.

This summary captures the essence of the podcast episode, detailing the historical context, current transformation driven by design and creativity, challenges faced, and future prospects. It includes notable quotes with timestamps and maintains a natural flow, making it informative for those who haven't listened to the episode.