Inspired by vintage French Varages plates, Golabek utilized a Vieux Provence pattern. Using items sourced from his own collection, he created the perfect setting using both new and vintage items. “Aside from doing flowers, I also collect and sell unique and interesting objects, including tabletop items I use with my floral decor,” he explains. arthurgolabek.com
How did you get into floral work?
Ever since I was a child, I have always loved flowers and nature. I would pick flowers from my grandma’s garden and fields surrounding our house in Poland. At the age of 17, I moved to NYC and soon after, I was very fortunate to start working at Ronaldo Maia Flowers on the Upper East Side over a period of seven years, which I consider my floral upbringing. I live and work out of both the city and Sag Harbor. I occasionally forage flowers on the East End to add to my arrangements, which often brings childhood memories.
What has been your most elaborate/memorable service?
Scent holds memories, and my most memorable installation was at last summer’s Animal Rescue Fund Designer Show House in Sagaponack. I created a floral waterfall, made up entirely of my favorite flower, lily of the valley.
What is your favorite floral arrangement?
I love a very elaborate but relaxed, English-style still life arrangement including seasonal flowers, ideally with lily of the valley. Many times, I make an arrangement more interesting by using vintage or antique vases from my collection.
How do you go about choosing florals for an occasion?
I arrange all of the ideas, then propose the appropriate option to create the most beautiful experience. I source all my flowers from the NYC Flower Market and local farms on the East End in the summer, where I personally select every bunch. The best is when I have that dream client and the flexibility to add in an unexpected special flower found in the market that morning.
Photography by: Photography by Doug Young
