The co-owners behind La Maison Supreme (with locations in Tarrytown and Hudson), Gerald Palumbo and Pierre Francois Supreme have extensive expertise in design and antiques, which is why it’s such a treat to step through the doors of their shops.
The first location, which was on Hudson Street in Manhattan, opened in 2010. In 2016, the store was relocated to Hudson, and then last year, the Tarrytown location opened its doors to complement the Hudson location.
“The Rivertowns have a rich history of being a haven for fine antique stores, attracting designers, decorators, and antique afficionados alike,” says Supreme. “Our passion for fine antiques has deep roots, cultivated through years of extensive travel across Europe, exploring grand estates and museums. The fine craftsmanship found in these treasures has left an indelible mark on us, inspiring the inception of La Maison Supreme.”
Supreme was brought up around antiques with his family’s antique business in Montreal, which laid the foundation for his love of these treasures. Palumbo was trained formally as a designer and worked with esteemed design and architectural firms in NYC for many years.

The couple met 15 years ago and two years later, opened their first store together. “With both of our backgrounds, it seemed like the right fit,” says Palumbo.
Whether you’ve purchased antiques before or you’re new to the antique world, Supreme and Palumbo share their best tips for choosing, cherishing, and using antiques in your home:
Size Matters
“A common oversight is underestimating the size of a piece, leading buyers to realize it may be too large or too small, once acquired,” says Palumbo. “It’s great to take measurements and know the size. If it’s a piece of art or a mirror, you can cut a piece of brown paper the same size before you buy.”
The couple is happy to guide buyers. “We have a good eye and can work off of photos from their home and make suggestions,” says Palumbo. “A lot of times we will also visit their home bringing options.”
What to Look for
“Consider your purchase an investment and buy what you genuinely love,” they add. “Imagine the piece in your home years down the line — will it still bring joy? Antiques, large or small, add warmth and elegance to a space.”

Working Order
“Antiques require careful inspection,” they state. “Wear from age is expected, but ensure all parts are present and mechanisms are in working condition. Functional aspects, such as drawers and doors, should operate smoothly, and expert inspections for items like clocks and lighting are essential.”
“If it’s something like a clock, before we sell it, we send it to a clocksmith to make sure it’s in good condition,” says Palumbo. “With a sideboard, the doors should open and close properly, and make sure the hinges aren’t broken. There is a difference between a little bit of wear and serious damage. If something has been repaired, we tell the client that.”
“Antiques, whether grand or modest, contribute to a room’s character and elevate its ambience.”
— Gerald Palumbo
Why Buy an Antique
“The emotional connection to the piece surpasses size or cost,” says Palumbo. “Antiques, whether grand or modest, contribute to a room’s character and elevate its ambience.”
“The design, construction, and quality of antiques often surpass newer alternatives,” says Supreme. “Handcrafted with longevity in mind, antiques stand out for their enduring charm compared to the often poorly constructed, short-lived modern furniture.”
To Refinish or Not?
“It’s okay to change things,” says Palumbo. “People should make [a piece] their own. You’re not going to love every piece of upholstery.” He adds that if you reupholster or refinish a piece it’s not going to lower the value of the piece, but he does add some caution. “If you’re buying something for a few thousand dollars that’s one thing, but if you’re going to spend $50,000 on something, you don’t want to repaint it.”
Mixing and Matching
Supreme and Palumbo go on to say that a huge trend in design is mixing and matching newer and older pieces. “Younger people are moving to the suburbs and they’re buying these older homes, and they are taking a more clean and contemporary approach to the décor of the home,” says Palumbo. “They are choosing a more contemporary or mid-century modern sofa or coffee table, but they need something that brings warmth and glamour to the space. That’s where they may go with an ornate sideboard, mirror, or Venetian chandelier.”
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