Renowned antiques dealer and designer John Rosselli announced yesterday that he will be permanently closing his beloved shop on Manhattan's Upper East Side that has been a destination for interior designers, architects, and antiques aficionados for 65 years. The 88 year old shared that he will be shifting his business model in favor of a digital-driven commerce platform in light of the uncertainty with the pandemic and continuous evolution of the design industry.
"As a young editor in New York, a visit to John Rosselli was the ultimate education in all things chic," says Dayle Wood, VERANDA's senior style and market editor. "Getting lost amid the shelves of blue-and-white porcelain and elegant displays of painted furniture—not to mention the magical way Mr. Rosselli and his team put everything together!—was truly instrumental in training my eye. While it’s certainly the end of an extraordinary era in New York, it is exciting to hear that his legacy and brand will live on through a new digital platform, and I can’t wait to get shopping!"
John Rosselli Antiques is hosting a heritage sale at the 61st Street shop through October 23, offering up to 50 percent off antiques, art, and furniture with the intention of launching a designer-focused e-commerce site later this fall. Loyal customers can expect to find his signature blue-and-white ceramics, curated antiques, and atelier pieces still available to shop online. Rosselli plans to continue expanding the offerings of the latter, as his East Harlem workshop will remain open for producing collection pieces. A broader range of atelier pieces will be available at his New York; Chicago; Washington, D.C.; and Dania Beach showrooms.
While Rosselli says the thrill of antiquing lies in the sensory experience, he is adapting to today's technology and is excited for a new chapter that will allow him to connect with even more designers.
"At 88, I still wake up every day excited by the promise of what lies ahead," Rosselli writes in his announcement. "For now, we are closing a chapter, but the book is still being written. And I am honored to be on this continuous journey with you."
Lauren Wicks is a Birmingham-based writer covering design trends, must-have products, travel inspiration, and entertaining. She’s obsessed with globally inspired textiles, hosting dinner parties, and French cocktails.
