Dinner in the Garden with Michael Devine and Thomas Burak

Thomas Burak and Michael Devine, at home in their garden in Kinderhook.

Thomas Burak's chic interior design and Michael Devine's amazing hand printed fabrics are wonderful sources of inspiration. It was a delight to meet this talented duo while seated together at the Lenox Hill Neighborhood House Spring Gala, where we both designed tablescapes. We became fast friends and I was very excited when Michael and Thomas invited me to visit them in Kinderhook, New York.



Their charming Upstate escape feels like stepping back in time. Located in downtown Kinderhook, you enter the house through Michael's street level shop, which is packed with his beautiful fabrics. Upstairs is a charming flat, which overlooks the back garden.

Mirrors reflect light and create the illusion of depth - use them indoors and out!

The garden is narrow but deep. Michael and Thomas have cleverly divided the space into layers.

Just off the house is the seating and dining area followed by a quadrant of planters, some with flowers, others with vegetables.

This potted plant on stand creates a focal point.

Love this wicker fencing!

At the end of the garden is the ‘bagatelle’- a simple shed that has been delightfully overgrown with vines.

The interior of the bagatelle received a dose of its owner’s styles - the simple wood floor was hand painted, the shed door was replaced with a pair of French doors, and a chandelier is the final touch for transforming this space from storage to an elegant entertaining enclave. The walls are draped in Michael’s fabric for a whimsical tent like feel.

After a tour of the garden, Michael and Thomas poured cocktails over home made ice cubes that had been frozen with flowers from the garden. Such thoughtful touches make guests feel extra special, which is something these two know all about. 

Michael is currently writing a book for Rizzoli about entertaining in the garden. Michael and Thomas entertain in their garden all year and I can’t wait to learn more of their tips when the book comes out.

Beautiful table setting for our dinner; dinner's ingredients came right from the garden!

Thank you, Michael and Thomas, for such a lovely and fun evening!  Visit www.michaeldevinehome.com for more on Michael Devine and his beautiful fabrics, and check out Thomas Burak’s fabulous decorating at www.thomasburak.com.