A couple of weeks ago, in celebration of another year, MR gathered for its annual holiday party, hosted by David and Fritz at their home in the illustrious residence towers at United Nations Plaza. While the setting was familiar to some of us, it was new to others, a space only seen before in pictures—a corner apartment high in sky and one of MR’s definitive projects.
Walking through the building’s grand, red-carpeted lobby on our way to the elevators, we marveled at how being there feels like a trip back in time to when Truman Capote, Richard Avedon, Dina Merrill, Johnny Carson and Walter Cronkite were among the famous names who called the address home. David and Fritz’s apartment, on the other hand, feels present-day. Renovated in 2014, the materials and surfaces in black and white provide a modern backdrop for furniture, furnishings, objects and art in a warm, natural palette in browns and greens. With city lights sparkling through wrap-around windows, we mingled easily from room to room, our hosts’ perfectly balanced minimalist-maximalist home as comfortable as it is chic.
In the breakfast nook in the kitchen, Fritz set out a festive bar and in the dining room, under the dazzling bronze and dandelion chandelier, a gorgeous spread on the brass table. Over cocktails and dinner, we visited with one another and caught up with some old friends, a handful of MR alumni in attendance. It was a chance to unwind away from the office and away from work, in the spirit of the holiday season.
At the end of the night, along with our office mascots Tulip and Apple, we gathered in the living room for an MR-style White Elephant game, with gifts targeted for the design lover. Included in the array were objects both beautiful and interesting, including a glass tea set, a verdigris catch-all and a pair of handmade plates from Japan. A few of the items got the attention of more than one of us, creating some friendly competition with a handful of surprising steals.
The evening was a festive celebration of not only a successful 2025, but of the creative spirit and camaraderie that make MR unique. Before our goodbyes, David took a moment to say a few words, in appreciation for our work throughout the year and toast another one beginning.
Happy holidays and cheers to 2026!
