Franklin Report Report Card for Cullman & Kravis Inc. in Connecticut/Westchester
★ Franklin Report Card
Cullman & Kravis Inc.
790 Madison Avenue,
7th Floor
New York, NY 10021
(212) 249-3874
www.cullmankravis.com
ellen@cullmankravis.com
Main Contact: Elissa Cullman
Categories
Interior Design

Services & Specialties
Exquisite, stately yet accessible, traditional interior design

FRANKLIN REPORT RATINGS
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4.5]
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FR Review:
Cullman & Kravis has clearly established itself as a venerable design firm transcending generations. Founded in 1984 by Elissa Cullman and the late Hedi Kravis, the firm is often called upon to design around superb collections of fine art and antiques. Cullman's own Fairfield home is filled with the results of a lifelong devotion to fine Americana, a theme often carried to patrons' country homes. Clients are consistently impressed by the firm's ability to execute its goal of "redefining the traditional interior" with antiques from all periods, clever textures, project management acumen, and extreme attention to detail.

Clients have included the CEOs of major corporations and celebrities including Oprah Winfrey and Candice Bergen. While the firm may have as many as 25 projects at any one time (in various stages), a full staff of Cullman, three partners, and twelve designers are referred to as "completely on top of it." Cullman's supporters see her as the design inspiration, working from the client's interests. Generally speaking, most clients note that she was fairly available and were pleased with their strong project managers. The firm also wins accolades for its sensitivity to family living.

Customers consider pricing top of the market but worth it. The firm charges a standard design fee, classic retail on product and workroom, standard markup on antiques and standard hourly fees for oversight. While "no expense is spared," the contract reportedly is followed to the line. The firm's outreach to superior craftsmen is described as "unparalleled." Supporters highly recommended the firm for those who appreciate effective oversight of the highest caliber quality. Many clients have used the firm multiple times--the ultimate compliment. AD's "Deans of American Design." AD 100, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2007, 2010, 2012, 2014. KB 2010, 2014.

Representative Client Comments:
"I really respected Ellie's integrity. With our new home she insisted that we first put the money into the proper architecture, saying that the sofas could be purchased anytime." "The firm's incredible organizations skills are very comforting." "If she could not find the perfect antique, she would find a really good substitute." "Even though slipcovers are not Ellie's thing, she did what I asked and made it look great." "Many of the same chintzes and tartans are used, even in the same colorways." "Ellie personally vetted every antique and kept a close eye on the associates assigned to us." "We lucked out and I loved my young project manager, but things did not work out so well with my friend." "I did not want to be involved on a detailed basis, and I certainly did not need to be." "My husband is crazy about Ellie--it amazed me that he got involved at all." "Ellie's knowledge of antiques and rugs is extensive and central to her stately decorating." "The designs are less predictable than you would have thought." "While progressing, I would not say they are on the edge of pizzazz." "She delivers an American original--extraordinarily luscious designs that withstand the test of time. It is classic opulence meets livable comfort." "Expensive, but worth it."

5 Stars
 
(6)
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REGISTERED (6 reviews)
Posted 6/24/2014
Reviewed By:
deborah weinberg greenwich ,CT

Bottom Line:
exquisite taste and a delight to work with. consummate professionals.
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Project Description & Comments:
C & K has exquisite tastes, they are extremely professional, focused on every detail, so easy and nice to work with, they listen to you and are eager to help create the kind of environment you want, very creative in terms of finding new sources, always coming up with new and unique treatments but always elegant, chic , comfortable and inviting. ellie overseas everything, down to the last detail.
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Posted 6/26/2014
Reviewed By:
judylobel@gmail.com judylobel@gmail.com

Bottom Line:
There are 4 attributes that make Ellie Cullman a world-class designer: she is a perfectionist, gives incredible attention to the details, has exquisite taste, and an extraordinary commitment to client service.
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Project Description & Comments:
Cullman & Kravis advised on every aspect of an extensive duplex apartment/terrace renovation
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Posted 6/28/2014
Reviewed By:
Susanne Pritchard Houston

Bottom Line:
We felt like we were Ellie's only clients- even though we knew she had lots of other projects. She is full of energy, upbeat, always available and a pleasure to work with. Her extensive knowledge of art and antiques was an invaluable resource. Cullma
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Project Description & Comments:
Cullman & Kravis worked with us to design our new home from the ground up. Through every stage of the project, Ellie and her team helped us to create the home that we envisioned. C&K’s highly qualified design team vetted every detail including wall and floor finishes, lighting, hardware, plumbing fixtures- even the placement of wall switches and electrical outlets. This was in addition to the antiques and custom made furniture, rugs, draperies and accessories that you typically think of when looking for an interior designer. Their attention to detail was incredible. They are very organized, energetic and creative in their work. The firm keeps meticulous records, creating a project book listing each item purchased. Our home is classic, timeless and beautiful- just what we wanted. We couldn't be happier with the result.
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Posted 6/29/2014
Reviewed By:
Jody Yudkoff Chestnut Hill ,MA

Bottom Line:
It was an outstanding experience. Everyone at the firm is highly professional. We always feel as is we are getting excellent advice while our preferences and ideas are listened to and treated respectfully.
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Posted 7/8/2014
Reviewed By:
Maggiechi1@yahoo.com Maggiechi1@yahoo.com

Bottom Line:
They take the utmost care of you and your space with the greatest style, expertise, service, talent
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Project Description & Comments:
Amazing service, anticipated every need and want, facilitated and delivered above and beyond throughout the project, accessible, welcoming, positive, the chicest style including pragmatism, incisive attention to detail, creativity and problem solving unique and effective while still providing deep understanding of style
        Cost of Project: $500,001 or more
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Posted 7/8/2014
Reviewed By:
marlene hess New York ,NY

Bottom Line:
Cullman &Kravis is wonderful to work with. They are consummate professionals. They make the entire experience as easy as is possible - and the end result is just what you hoped it would be, if not even better.
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