Our fascination with the Catskills continues, not only as a retreat from Manhattan but to discover creative individuals that have made the transition from city to country. From design, food, to lodging, places like Scandinavian Grace, Peekamoose, and Breathe Inn bring the urban sensibility to a rural setting. Our search went even further this time, about an hour off of I-87 and four hours away from Manhattan comes the tiny town of Andes, NY. With a population of less than 2000, it is a sleepy town just waking up from its slumber, preparing itself for the summer season. Upon our visit many of the shops were closed with only a handful making preparations for the big Memorial Day weekend, signaling the start of the season. One of the few stores that was open was Kabinett & Kammer, owned and operated by Sean Scherer, an artist and former Manhattanite. Retreating from the city after 9/11, it wasn’t until 2006 that Scherer opened up the shop. Kabinett & Kammer is filled with scientific and academic posters and models mixed with a rustic blend of furniture and accessories. New York Times profiled Scherer in his farm house last fall, revealing a dwelling that is the perfect habitat for elaborate dinner parties. Be sure to also check out Delaware Trading Post and Fisk Antiques if you make the adventure up there.
