10/20/2026
What a dream it was to redesign a portion of the historic Vanderbilt Mansion on Fisher Island this year.
Historic architecture has so much depth, artistry, and beauty embedded in its bones. Our approach was rooted in preserving that integrity while imagining how the Vanderbilts might live and entertain here today.
The lighting, art, and interior architecture draw from the era in which the Mansion was built, while the custom furniture, layouts, and functionality were designed for how the space is used now. The goal was never to create a period room, but to capture the spirit of that world — its intimacy, elegance, luxury, and sense of occasion.
When I design, I often begin by imagining the world a space belongs to. Here, I kept returning to the Vanderbilts’ history of entertaining, travel, European influence, and hospitality — rooms filled with stories, objects gathered over time, long dinners, drinks at the bar, and quiet conversation. I wanted stepping into this space to feel transportive: a departure from the pace of modern life into something more intimate, romantic, and connected.
We introduced a historic gesso, wax, and gilding treatment to the walls, layered over a rich warm brown by Farrow & Ball. Custom ceiling plasterwork was inspired by nearby Vizcaya, and every piece of furniture was designed by us specifically for the room. Burnt strawberry, rust, and caramel bring warmth and depth throughout, and the lighting and artwork were sourced to feel as though they had been collected by the family over generations.
For me, that is the most exciting part of hospitality design: creating a fully imagined world around how people will gather, linger, connect, and remember a space.
I can’t wait to reveal the finished project. For now, a glimpse into the process — and a few iPhone photos that will have to do.
A beautiful corner with ocean views. Gina Berschneider, Inc. TKD designed custom furniture. Farrow & Ball
The original boathouse next to the mansion.
Install day and our giant Woka fixture
The Vanderbilt Estate — Fisher Island
The octagon study received a different palette.
Vintage lighting of the era paired with JP Weaver Company plaster rosettes
The Bar WIP
Worki