Client Stories:

Extraordinary Custom Solutions for Design Executive Kevin Sharkey

client: Kevin Sharkey

location: New York City, NY

design consultant: Carolyn Musher

Kevin Sharkey standing in front of his rainbow colored book shelves | California Closets

Kevin Shakey's library withrainbow color coordinated books | California Closets

What He Wanted


As Martha Stewart’s trusted right-hand, Kevin Sharkey appreciates the importance of details. Over his illustrious 20-year career at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Kevin has brought his design expertise to everything from editorial projects to product development. At home, Kevin approaches design with the same level of careful consideration; an avid entertainer and collector, he needed sophisticated storage that would elegantly organize and display his impressive collections.

Kevin knew California Closets New York’s Carolyn Musher—who’d transformed his closet years earlier—would be the one to help him achieve his vision: a multi-wall bedroom library that kept his Manhattan skyline view intact and a statement China cabinet to meticulously house a myriad of silver, china, linens and glassware.

Kevin Sharkey's custom dining room shelves housing his collectables | California Closets
Kevin Sharkey standing in his custom dining room | California Closets

How we did it


For the bedroom, Carolyn designed floor-to-ceiling shelving that framed the wall of windows and included a custom bed flanked by two bedside tables. Kevin, who likes his books arranged by color, completed the room’s vibrant appeal. In the dining room, Carolyn took careful stock of Kevin’s collections to ensure every item would have a proper and accessible place. Knowing the cabinet would be fully visible while entertaining, she designed the unit with clean-lined doors, striking backpainted glass, and a rich black finish that flows seamlessly with the dining room table—a custom solution that aligns effortlessly with the space.

For me, being in a place that’s really beautiful is a place where I can contemplate things. I can acknowledge where I am and process all the beauty that’s around me. Being in that state of mind is where I’m at my most honest with myself.

Kevin Sharkey

final result


Custom designs that capture Kevin’s vision down to the details. A single shelf designed with a lower height provides a spot for small books on his bookshelf; pull-out shelves and drawers corral the tiny treasures of Kevin’s china collection; and his custom bed flows perfectly with the bedroom library. All completed in a dramatic black finish, each solution ties together for a true style statement.

Photo Credits:Stefan Radtke

Design Details

Finish:

Dakota™ Shadow Black

Hardware & Accessories:

Inset faces on drawers and doors

Accents:

Backpainted glass

*Note: product availability may vary by location


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