Designer Jake Arnold Never Leaves These Decorating Decisions Until the End

This article features an interview with Jake Arnold, a British interior designer based in Los Angeles, known for his signature style that combines timeless sophistication with lived-in comfort. Arnold's design philosophy emphasizes rich textures, warm color palettes, and bespoke detailing to create modern luxury spaces. The interview delves into his creative journey, starting from his unexpected transition from studying economics in London to pursuing interior design in LA. He details how he secured an internship by messaging a design studio on social media and subsequently established his own studio in 2020 after working with established firms. Arnold's core design elements include a neutral palette and natural materials, often incorporating unique antiques and curiosities to maintain a classic yet timeless aesthetic. His goal is to create cozy, high-impact spaces that are also functional for modern living. He frequently utilizes materials such as bronze, brass, oak, walnut, and a variety of layered textiles like linen, heavyweight wools, suede, and mohair. While he favors warm neutrals, he is not averse to using color, mentioning Farrow & Ball's 'Dimity' and 'Broccoli Brown,' and Portola's 'Patagonia' as preferred paint colors. Stripes are considered neutrals in his design vocabulary, and he appreciates subtle prints and textures, occasionally integrating eclectic wallpaper or bold fabrics. Material drenching, a technique where one material is used extensively throughout a space, is a hallmark of his style. He also emphasizes layering textures, employing earthy color palettes, and sourcing vintage pieces from places like JF Chen and Galerie Half. Arnold shares personal insights, including his recent purchase of his first home in West Hollywood, an area he values for its creative energy and design history. This personal project allows him complete creative freedom to focus on layered and collected design. The article also highlights three of Arnold's favorite projects: Benedict Canyon, Loma Linda, and Del Lago. The Benedict Canyon project, for Chrissy Teigen and John Legend, focused on artisanal craftsmanship, incorporating warm tones, mauve, chartreuse, and gold and brass accents with calacatta monet and jade quartzite. Key features include a custom brass shell TV cover, Venini sconces, and a Jeff Zimmerman pendant. This home was designed as a generational and organic space, aiming for comfort, luxury, and a connection to nature, moving away from historical architecture to embrace a contemporary cultural paradise. For the Loma Linda project, a 1980s Mediterranean property, the approach was 'less is more,' transforming it into a serene, liveable home using muted neutrals, earthy greys, beiges, walnut, oak, calacatta viola, and antique limestone. Highlights include a custom daybed, mohair seating, vintage lamps, and Rose Uniacke pendants, balancing luxury and comfort. This project involved restoring the Gerard Colcord home to its natural state, creating an open and amicable space. The Del Lago project in Fort Lauderdale, for a hotel developer, aimed for a tropical vacation feel with Californian softness meeting Palm Beach style, using cool neutrals, lush greens, blues, calacatta monet, and zellige tiles. Notable elements are vintage Axel Einar chairs, an Atelier Vime pendant, Stephen Antonson lighting, and De Gournay wallpaper, all designed to evoke escapism without being clichéd. This ground-up home was a collaboration with Smith & Moore Architects, creating an architectural dreamscape with whimsical details and island motifs. #InteriorDesign #JakeArnold #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #DesignPhilosophy #AlistClients #ArchitecturalDesign #LAInteriorDesign

Mohair, a luxurious fabric derived from Angora goat hair, is gaining significant traction in interior design, endorsed by renowned designer Jake Arnold. Arnold highlights mohair's ability to introduce depth and warmth to spaces while offering remarkable durability, making it a desirable material for high-end projects. The fabric is praised for its lustrous appearance, softness against the skin, and excellent dye absorption, distinguishing it from standard wool, similar to cashmere or Angora in its premium status due to its more complex production and harvesting processes. Interior designers Alice Moszczynski and Michelle Iapicco offer differing approaches to incorporating mohair into design schemes. Moszczynski advocates for bold applications, such as entire sofas or chairs upholstered in mohair, believing it significantly elevates the overall aesthetic and texture of a piece. She suggests that if a full furniture commitment is too much, mohair pillows can serve as an effective alternative. Conversely, Iapicco prefers to use mohair more subtly, recommending it for accent pieces like throw pillows, cozy throw blankets, or luxurious accent chairs, to add a touch of elegance without overwhelming a space. Both designers acknowledge the fabric's inherent ability to enrich a room's decor. The article showcases a curated selection of mohair and faux mohair products, reflecting various applications and price points, catering to different design preferences and budgets. These include a Hayes Faux Mohair Throw Blanket from Pottery Barn, a Capra Faux Mohair Decorative Pillow from Perigold, and a SOHO HOME Harlyn Checked Mohair-Blend Throw from Net-a-Porter, which is ideal for rustic or cozy cabin aesthetics. Other featured items are a Luxe Mongolian Lamb Pillow Cover from Quince, a Viso Project Two-Tone Mohair Pillow from Saks Fifth Avenue, and an Albion Mohair Throw from Serena & Lily, noted for its soft feel and vibrant color. For larger furniture pieces, the Chelsea Ottoman from Maiden Home is highlighted for its playful design and amber-colored mohair, alongside the Ceremonie Green Mohair Dining Chair by Athena Calderone for Crate and Barrel, made from faux mohair velvet. The Plaid Mohair Throw from Schoolhouse is presented as a colorful and cozy accent, while the Varick Sofa from Maiden Home, upholstered in 'brown sugar' mohair, is described as a contemporary and luxurious investment. An abc home Mohair Throw, made in Spain's Upper Oja Valley with unique frayed edges, offers a familiar touch. Finally, the Garrett Dining Chair from Maiden Home showcases mohair's excellent dye retention with its slate blue-gray cushion. The increasing popularity of mohair suggests its position as a key trend in interior design, offering designers and homeowners a versatile material that combines aesthetic appeal with practical benefits like durability and warmth. The varied product recommendations illustrate how mohair can be integrated into diverse home settings, from subtle accents to prominent furniture pieces, aligning with its reputation as a sophisticated and tactile fabric. #MohairFabric #InteriorDesignTrends #LuxuryTextiles #HomeDecor #JakeArnold #FurnitureDesign #TexturalElements #FabricDurability

Jake Arnold, a prominent interior designer based in Los Angeles, has made a significant impact in the design world, decorating homes for notable personalities such as Chrissy Teigen, John Legend, Rashida Jones, and Aaron Paul. Originally from London, Arnold's early exposure to design, influenced by his interior designer mother and jeweler father, fostered a deep appreciation for aesthetics. His journey into interior design began with an internship in L.A. at the age of 21. Despite starting with a modest salary of $800 a month and facing initial challenges, including faking expertise and relying on online searches for design solutions, Arnold persevered. His breakthrough came when his first independently designed home was featured on the cover of *Better Homes & Gardens*, leading to a surge in client calls. Arnold attributes his success to a combination of opportunity, hard work, and being in the right place at the right time. He recalls that his distinctive approach of painting walls black contrasted sharply with the prevalent beachy, bohemian interiors in L.A., setting his work apart. He emphasizes that while he may not consider himself the world's best designer, his conviction and dedication to his craft are unwavering. His career has seen him featured in prestigious publications like *Architectural Digest* and *ELLE Décor*, and he has collaborated with brands such as Crate & Barrel, even publishing his own book. Throughout his career, Arnold’s design philosophy has evolved from a naive curiosity to a more risk-taking yet timeless approach. He emphasizes comfort in his designs, creating spaces that are inviting rather than overly avant-garde. He aims for timelessness, drawing inspiration from figures like Ralph Lauren, by combining classic elements with a youthful, contemporary feel, rather than being driven by fleeting trends. He recognizes that interior design projects can span several years, necessitating a forward-thinking perspective to ensure designs remain current and relevant. Arnold's personal style mirrors his interior design principles, focusing on comfort and material mixing. He avoids bold prints and patterns, instead opting for textures such as denim, velvet, and mohair. His wardrobe choices reflect an effortless aesthetic, with shoes serving as an outlet for more colorful and playful expression. He recounts a significant shift in his personal style after moving to L.A., a "rebirth" that allowed him to shed self-consciousness and embrace fashion as a form of enjoyment, a stark contrast to his university days when he dressed to avoid attention. His favorite clothing brands include Acne, for its quality basics with a unique twist, and The Row, for its comfortable, timeless, and high-quality pieces. He also admires Dries Van Noten for its innovative fabrics and Bottega Veneta for its playful shoes. He enjoys discovering new brands like Found and Porto Diego, which offer whimsical and quality items. For everyday wear, he often customizes James Perse T-shirts for an added edge. If limited to one outfit for life, Arnold would choose a "Canadian tuxedo"—a dark, raw denim jacket paired with oversized, slightly flared jeans, accessorized with New Balance sneakers, a James Perse white T-shirt, a Ralph Lauren hat, and a Prada bag and glasses. He believes this ensemble is versatile enough for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events, highlighting denim's timeless appeal. #JakeArnold #InteriorDesign #MensFashion #CanadianTuxedo #PersonalStyle #DesignPhilosophy #FashionBrands #LosAngeles #HomeDecor

The editor-in-chief of Country Living, Rachel Hardage Barrett, discusses the common pitfall of seeking instant gratification in home decorating, a trend often fueled by social media. She argues that true, personal, and layered spaces—the kind frequently featured in Country Living—do not emerge overnight but rather evolve through a process she calls "Slow Decorating." This approach is likened to designer James Farmer's "cast-iron skillet strategy," where spaces are seasoned over time to achieve a more nuanced decorative flavor. Barrett highlights that her own regrettable design decisions were typically made in haste. Inspired by seasoned homeowners and designers, she now champions a more deliberate approach, emphasizing several key lessons. The first lesson is to "Shop for the Piece, Not the Room." Designer Libby Cameron, known for interiors that feel acquired over time, advocates buying versatile furniture that can be moved and repurposed across different rooms. Barrett suggests asking if a piece can be used in at least three different areas of the house before purchasing, moving away from a rigid, fill-in-the-blank decorating strategy towards a mix-and-match method. The second lesson, "Sweat the Small Stuff," involves focusing on thoughtful details that imbue a room with personality, such as unique artwork, sentimental souvenirs, or curated collections. Barrett recounts her experience renovating a Mississippi farmhouse, where she prioritized acquiring small, meaningful items like pheasant glassware and vintage books. This allowed her to feel progress in the project, making it easier to patiently wait for the right larger, more significant pieces like a sofa or sideboard. "Prioritize Quality" is the third lesson. Barrett advises investing in hand-crafted furniture or quality antiques, even if initially more expensive, as they offer long-term value compared to cheaper, mass-produced items. This principle echoes the Slow Food movement's emphasis on knowing the origin of products, extending to understanding the artisans or antique dealers behind home items. This connection often comes with interesting stories, adding to the intrinsic value of the piece. The fourth lesson is to "Mix Materials and Eras." As Country Living Senior Homes & Style Editor Anna Logan points out, the most compelling examples of Slow Decorating are timeless spaces that resist being categorized into a specific era. Embracing patience in decorating helps avoid falling for fleeting trends, preventing a home from becoming dated quickly, a common issue seen with styles like Modern Farmhouse. Finally, Barrett stresses that "Finished Isn’t the Goal." She argues against the desire to complete decorating, suggesting that homes, like individuals, should continuously evolve. Additions should reflect new interests and personal stories, turning a home into an ongoing narrative rather than a static endpoint. This approach resonates with collectors who value curation and experience over mere possession, finding greater happiness when items are connected to personal experiences. #SlowDecorating #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #AntiqueFurniture #QualityOverQuantity #PersonalStyle #TimelessDesign #MindfulShopping

The article highlights the often-overlooked interior design trend of pedestal styling, as advocated by leading interior designer Charlotte Rey of Campbell-Rey. Pedestals, traditionally Roman architectural features later embraced by Victorians for plant display, are making a significant comeback. Rey emphasizes the versatility and aesthetic impact of pedestals, noting their ability to elevate a room's visual interest and introduce diverse materials like stone or marble. Pedestals serve multiple functions in interior design, offering a way to draw the eye upward and add layers of interest to a space. They provide a dynamic surface for displaying various items, allowing for seasonal or mood-based changes. The choice of material for a pedestal can significantly influence the room's aesthetic, adding a touch of elegance or historical gravitas. Charlotte Rey offers three key design tips for effectively incorporating pedestals into home decor. Firstly, she suggests using classic pedestals to enliven corners in various rooms, including sitting rooms, entranceways, or dining rooms. A well-chosen pedestal, topped with items such as a Murano glass vase, a plaster bust, or a large shell, can create an understated drama and transform the room's atmosphere. She stresses that the displayed items do not necessarily need to be precious; even a simple bouquet of flowers can make a significant impact. Secondly, the article advises using pedestals to display favorite pieces, noting that pedestals, pillars, and columns inherently add a historical aspect and gravitas to a room. Rey shares her personal approach of elevating even inexpensive decorative items by placing them on a pedestal, thereby enhancing their perceived value and visual appeal. She also suggests constantly looking for unique pedestals in antique shops and online auctions due to their potential scarcity. Thirdly, a pedestal can be positioned as a focal point in an entryway. Placing a pedestal table centrally can create an elegant and welcoming impression. This approach allows for seasonal decorative changes or the display of eye-catching objects. However, it is crucial to complement this with ample entryway storage solutions to prevent the pedestal from becoming a cluttered surface for everyday items. The article also provides practical advice on how to decorate a pedestal, suggesting items such as sculptures, vases, or potted plants. It also mentions that adding a lamp to a wall-adjacent pedestal can enhance its decorative impact. Pedestals can be placed in room corners for interest or in pairs flanking doorways for grandeur. Larger pedestals can serve as central decorative focal points in living spaces or entryways, illustrating their adaptability in various home settings. #InteriorDesign #PedestalStyling #HomeDecor #CharlotteRey #DecoratingIdeas #ArchitecturalFeatures #VintageDecor #DisplaySolutions #EntrywayDesign

Sheena Murphy, founder of nune studio, offers insights into her approach to interior design, emphasizing that thoughtful design enhances overall wellbeing. Her style is characterized as modern, eclectic, layered, and planet-aware, reflecting her belief in creating comfortable and livable spaces. Murphy has completed projects in both London and the US, currently basing her operations in London while incorporating a distinctive "Stateside cool" into her designs. She identifies her 8th Street Townhouse and Charles Street projects as personal favorites, highlighting the collaborative process involved in their creation, whether with architects or directly with contractors. Murphy primarily uses neutrals, particularly warmer tones, as foundational backdrops, citing Farrow & Ball's Purbeck Stone, Ammonite, Elephant’s Breath, and Jitney, along with Atelier Ellis’s Stony Plaster, as preferred choices. She expresses a particular enjoyment in designing children's rooms, which she finds allow for a more playful and whimsical approach, demanding multi-functionality and adaptability due to children's rapid development. These spaces often push her to experiment with color and pattern more extensively. Her creative process is also significantly influenced by the simplicity and natural beauty of the British countryside, which she finds invigorating. For timeless interiors, she admires Vincent Van Duysen and Axel Vervoodt, while for contemporary and layered designs, she looks to Decus Interiors, Templeton Architecture, and Ashe Leandro. She also keeps an eye on the distinctive work of designers like Brian Paquette, Rose Uniacke, and Disc Interiors, and draws inspiration from Instagram accounts such as Sarah Elliott, Rebecca Wakefield, The Modern House, and Genevieve Lutkin. When initiating a room design, Murphy prioritizes surveying the space and taking detailed measurements of existing architectural elements. For small spaces, she recommends investing in lighting, window treatments, and sofas, noting that curtains or roman shades and sculptural lighting can significantly transform a room. Sofas are considered a crucial investment due to their frequent use. In large open-plan areas, her strategy focuses on creating defined zones through furniture and textiles, emphasizing the importance of space planning, furniture layouts, rugs, lighting, and storage to provide division and definition. Regarding decorating, Murphy's color scheme and mood board development are informed by the property’s external environment, the client’s lifestyle, and the home’s architecture. This comprehensive approach guides the selection of color palettes, forms, and materials, influencing shapes and styles. For a single room, she typically uses one wall color, accentuating architectural details with tonal variations. She appreciates mixing patterns but stresses the importance of scale to allow each pattern to stand out, with the number of patterns varying based on room size and type. For eclectic furniture arrangements, a unifying color palette is essential to prevent a chaotic atmosphere. Murphy advises against chasing trends, advocating for timeless designs and planet-friendly, natural materials that ensure longevity. She encourages purchasing items loved and intended for long-term use, ensuring they serve a purpose and connect with other aesthetic elements. Functionality is paramount in kitchen design. While she favors wood and limestone for flooring, she cautions against wood for messy cooks due to maintenance. Limestone is highlighted as a durable, cost-effective, and easy-to-maintain natural alternative. For worktops, marble is her preferred choice, although she suggests limestone or quartzite as natural alternatives for those hesitant about marble's cost or perceived delicacy. She avoids porcelain or quartz, favoring natural stones, but acknowledges stainless steel for its utilitarian appeal in avid cooks' kitchens. Paint colors are always selected in natural daylight, with attention paid to bulb temperature to avoid distortion. Finally, Murphy advises splurging on lighting and vintage pieces, while saving on occasional items like side tables, secondary chairs, and accessories. For budget-conscious projects, prioritizing paint and lighting is key. She concludes by listing her preferred vendors for various interior design elements, including furniture, fabrics, joinery, kitchens, bathrooms, wallpaper, paint, lighting, flooring, tiles, and kitchen hardware. #InteriorDesign #SheenaMurphy #NuneStudio #HomeDecor #DesignTips #EcoFriendlyDesign #NeutralPalette #SpacePlanning #KitchenDesign

The article highlights nine timeless home design choices that interior designers recommend for enduring style and appeal. Many decorating choices can quickly become outdated, but certain fundamental elements and principles consistently maintain their relevance. Stephanie Sabbe, an interior designer, emphasizes the importance of good interior architecture, stating that strong 'bones' of a house allow for adaptable decor over decades, regardless of changing colors and patterns. Adrianne Bugg, principal designer for Pillar & Peacock, also notes that a well-planned space, which respects the house's style and the owner's personality, will never go out of fashion. The article suggests that these timeless choices are akin to classic fashion icons like Princess Diana's style, always remaining elegant. One such timeless element is natural stone countertops, including marble, quartzite, and soapstone. Amanda Reynal, an interior designer, praises their enduring beauty and durability, as well as their versatility. These natural stones, often in neutral tones, seamlessly integrate into various design aesthetics, from traditional to contemporary, making them a valuable long-term investment. Reynal explains that each slab possesses unique veining and texture, adding organic elegance, and that natural stone acquires more character as it ages. However, Leah Harmatz, founder of Field Theory Design, cautions against granite, citing its lack of interesting veining and movement compared to other natural stones. Another key aspect of timeless design is layering color and texture. Kellie Sirna, owner and principal of Studio 11 Design, stresses that a room without a mix of these elements can feel flat and uninteresting. She advises incorporating natural materials like wood, stone, and metal for a balanced, organic foundation, then adding soft textures and pops of color to infuse warmth and personality while maintaining an open and cohesive feel. This layering approach creates depth, character, and a nuanced stylistic narrative, allowing the room's aesthetic to evolve with personal additions collected over time, such as pillows, art, accessories, and books. The inclusion of a fireplace, whether real or faux, is also presented as a timeless design choice. David Kaihoi, an interior designer, believes a fireplace makes a home feel more complete, providing immediate comfort and a focal point due to humanity's historical connection to fire. For homes without a wood-burning fireplace, Kaihoi suggests installing a gas unit or a well-designed faux fireplace that looks architecturally convincing, with a realistic firebox depth and chimney breast. Nick Olsen, another interior designer, adds that a simple bolection fireplace mantel, featuring a curvy molding profile in wood, stone, plaster, or mirror, is a classic alternative to overly ornate or historically inaccurate modern mantels. Furthermore, investing in well-made, well-maintained furniture is crucial for timelessness. Harmatz states that quality furniture, regardless of its era, will endure. She emphasizes that antique and vintage pieces can be refreshed and integrated into contemporary spaces through simple updates such as new upholstery, oiling wood, sealing stones or ceramics, and polishing metal. Sirna notes that these enhancements not only refresh the items but also preserve their inherent beauty. The article also suggests mindful furniture mapping, which involves thoughtful arrangement to ensure visual balance, functionality, cohesion, and comfort, and the use of classic furniture silhouettes, particularly those with elegant lines like Louis XV and Louis XVI styles, which can complement both contemporary and traditional rooms.

Interior designer Jake Arnold, known for his celebrity clientele including Chrissy Teigen, John Legend, Katy Perry, and Rashida Jones, has launched a new collection of rugs and wall coverings for Lulu and Georgia. This latest line, following two previous rug-focused collaborations, makes Arnold's distinctive aesthetic more accessible to a broader audience. The collection features six new rugs and seven wall coverings, characterized by a blend of traditional design elements with contemporary twists, reflecting what Arnold describes as a "casual California spirit." His aim was to create designs that feel timeless and rooted in historical references, while still being suitable for modern settings and capable of grounding a room's aesthetic. Among the new offerings are wallpaper designs, a first for Arnold's collaborations with Lulu and Georgia. These include the Tillar Botanical, a lattice-style wallpaper with a matching rug, and the Bamonte, a sweet floral pattern. Arnold has also reimagined traditional styles, such as the 18th-century toile, into a modern botanical design called Dors, which is notably printed on grasscloth. While his earlier rug collections for Lulu and Georgia were predominantly neutral, Arnold embraced a bolder approach for this current collection. Examples of this bolder direction include the Stansby, a hand-knotted wool rug in caramel and ivory adorned with sunburst motifs at each corner. Even the more casual jute rugs, such as the Clairmont, feature elevated details like a raised trellis pattern along the border. Arnold reveals that his primary inspiration for this collection stems from the "decadence and attention to detail" observed in 17th and 18th-century English manor houses, an influence that has guided his design philosophy since a young age. He also integrated subtle French and Italian modernist touches, citing "Gio Ponti moments" as an example. Overall, the collection is intended to convey a playful nature, reflecting Arnold's desire to enjoy the creative process. #JakeArnold #LuluAndGeorgia #RugCollection #WallpaperCollection #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CelebrityDesigner #TraditionalWithATwist #CaliforniaStyle

Rebecca Constable, an interior designer known for creating timeless and inviting homes that also accommodate daily life, recently launched Room by Room Interiors. This new venture offers ready-to-go design schemes, providing an accessible and affordable alternative for individuals seeking design assistance without the commitment of hiring a full-time designer. These schemes include comprehensive guidance, from key design principles to specific recommendations for paint colors, furniture, and accessories. Constable's design journey began after transitioning from a career in management consulting and project management at John Lewis. Following the birth of her children, she sought a more flexible profession, initially redesigning her own home and then assisting friends and family, which organically led to the growth of her interior design practice. She notes the significant overlap between project management and interior design, highlighting the organizational aspects crucial to both fields. Her personal home is characterized by a vibrant and layered approach, incorporating color, pattern, and various textures. Each room is distinct, and Constable frequently uses different fabrics to achieve this variety. She also emphasizes the use of natural materials such as oak floorboards, marble tiles, and quartzite counters, embracing the natural wear and tear these materials exhibit over time. Her favorite room is her and her husband's bathroom, which she describes as a calm and luxurious space for relaxation. Constable's design philosophy is deeply influenced by her Swiss grandmother, whose home featured a rich collection of antiques, self-painted oil paintings, and hand-decorated furniture. This eclectic mix of old and new, combined with a love for color and pattern, defines Constable's style. Her own home reflects this sensibility, blending antique pieces with more modern elements. Regarding her latest endeavor, Room by Room Interiors, Constable explains that the platform addresses the challenge many people face in finding the right design elements for their homes. By curating complete design schemes, the service aims to simplify the decorating process for those who lack the time or inclination to research extensively. This initiative makes professional interior design principles and product selections available to a wider audience. Constable also shared a wish list of ten items that align with her design aesthetic and current preferences. These items include a versatile sofa bed from The House Upstairs, a Folia Scalloped Natural Linen Wall Light from Lights & Lamps for architectural detailing, and a Wilmington Reeded Bedside Table from Alfred Newall, valued for its curves and the timeless quality of limed oak. Other items comprise a Frill Pouffe from Six The Residence for bedrooms or dressing rooms, a Dunes Rug from Pelican House x Lucy Williams, praised for its brown and blue color combination, and an Exton Mirror from Vaughan, considered a timeless piece suitable for various spaces. The list also features Marton Side Tables from The White Company for their utility in small spaces, a Ma Ma Lay Rattan Tray from Kalinko for desk or bedside organization, Brass Wiggle Handles from Bias Editions for a fun and luxurious touch, and a Rosemary Willow Diffuser from Bamford, appreciated for its fresh scent and aesthetic appeal. These selections collectively showcase Constable's commitment to functionality, natural materials, and a balanced blend of classic and contemporary elements. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #RoomByRoomInteriors #RebeccaConstable #DesignInspiration #Furniture #HomeAccessories #TimelessDesign #NaturalMaterials

This article features an interview with Andrea Schumacher, a prominent interior designer, who was named the city's top interior designer in 5280's Top Of The Town 2017. Schumacher's portfolio includes both private homes and commercial projects, such as Fluff Bar and Lime restaurant in downtown, and Mateo restaurant in Boulder. Her design aesthetic is characterized by glamour, color, boldness, and an innovative approach that often challenges conventional design norms. Schumacher elaborates on her creative process, highlighting that her creativity is sparked by art and fashion, with runway images being a particular source of inspiration. She shared her Pinterest pages for fashion and color, demonstrating her keen eye for visual aesthetics. When it comes to inspiring her designs, Schumacher emphasizes the importance of understanding her clients' lifestyles, personal preferences, favorite colors, and travel experiences. This client-centric approach allows her to create truly personalized and curated spaces. Her background as a Hollywood set designer has influenced her residential work, though she notes the distinction between creating a set and designing a living space. While set design is highly creative, residential design focuses on providing a backdrop for the real lives of the inhabitants. Schumacher observes that the heightened awareness of design, fueled by blogs, reality TV, and social media, has positively influenced the appreciation for good design, leading more people to seek it out. However, she cautions that TV shows, which condense the design process, can create unrealistic client expectations, emphasizing that truly curated homes require time and patience, as handcrafted products are often worth the wait. Regarding design trends, Schumacher adopts a balanced perspective. She acknowledges and observes trends but primarily focuses on the client's vision. She advises incorporating trendy items into easily changeable elements, like pillows or accessories, to maintain timelessness in core designs. Her love for patterns is evident, and she encourages bold applications, even on ceilings or fireplaces, to bring freshness to spaces. Current design obsessions include all things luxurious, such as wrapping a fireplace in fur, and incorporating shades of pink, which she refers to as "blush," into living rooms. She also expresses enthusiasm for trends in lighting, citing pieces by Avram Rusu Studio, and finds inspiration in Paris Flea Market finds, like amethyst and brass-and-Murano-glass Sputnik chandeliers. For a quick decorating trick, Schumacher suggests adding a touch of black to every room, whether through an accessory or a painted chair, to create a significant impact. When asked about a dream project in Colorado, she envisions designing a boutique hotel in Aspen, combining mountain living with global luxury elements to create a "mountain-modern with a travel vibe" aesthetic. Looking ahead, her firm is working on model units and a sales office for the St. Paul Collection in Cherry Creek North, signaling continued innovation and influence in the interior design landscape. Andrea Schumacher Interiors is located at 2406 W. 32nd Ave., Ste. D. #AndreaSchumacher #InteriorDesign #DenverDesign #DesignTrends #LuxuryInteriors #ResidentialDesign #CommercialDesign #CreativeProcess #DecoratingTips

The thrill of discovering unique furnishings and the regret of missing out on a coveted piece are common experiences for interior designers, as recounted by nine professionals in the field. These designers share their personal anecdotes of both significant acquisitions and elusive 'holy grail' items, offering insight into the passion and pursuit involved in curating exceptional interiors. Will Meyer, a devotee of Danish design, recently acquired a Hans Wegner daybed but continues his quest for the perfect Papa Bear chair, an iconic piece he believes will eternally remain stylish. Amy Lau's 'big find' was a set of sculptural Dommus chairs by Joseph Walsh, which she commissioned for her New York apartment after a studio visit in Ireland, impressed by their handcrafted and expressive design. Pierre Yovanovitch expresses a long-standing desire for a rare and expensive Uno Ahren masterpiece, specifically his 1927 inlaid Mahogany Secretaire, admired for its flawless execution and unique Garden of Eden imagery. Nate Berkus laments multiple missed opportunities to purchase a Picasso ceramic owl. He first encountered one while working at an auction house in Chicago, unable to afford it then, and later saw others in Paris and on 1stdibs, observing its increasing value with each sighting. Miles Redd's most significant discovery is a mirrored bathroom by David Adler, found in a Chicago salvage warehouse. This unique piece, which he uses as both a bathroom and a dining room, holds special value due to its singular nature and the emotional connection it provides, making him feel as though he is 'inside of a diamond' every morning. Alexandra Champalimaud recalls admiring the Mattia Bonetti Rock dining table at a design fair, describing it as extraordinary and full of personality, but ultimately passed on it due to not having a suitable space. Martyn Lawrence Bullard shares an auction disappointment involving a Jacques Adnet Hermès Saddle leather daybed. Despite thorough research and a set budget, he missed the piece by two bids, regretting his hesitation and emphasizing the importance of passionate pursuit in auctions, as he has been unable to find a similar item since. Robert Couturier maintains a detached perspective on objects, viewing himself as a temporary owner and valuing history over intrinsic monetary worth. However, he holds a particular affection for a painting by Jean Baptiste Greuze depicting an angel. This piece, inherited from his great-grandfather and a constant presence in his grandmother's home, evokes profound memories of his upbringing and the love of his grandmother, offering a sense of 'bonheur' and timelessness. Michael Smith expresses his admiration for the Lovö chair, designed by Axel Einar Hjorth in 1932. He had bid on this dynamic and remarkably modern piece at auction but was unsuccessful, wishing he could have incorporated it into one of his classic yet modern projects. #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #HomeDecor #Designers #LuxuryInteriors #ArtAndCollectibles #DesignStories #Acquisitions #LostOpportunities

Laura Kirar, an internationally acclaimed American-born, Mexico-based interior and product designer, shares insights into her unique style, diverse inspirations, and creative process. Her design philosophy emphasizes the combination of raw materials with her deep understanding of art, architecture, fashion, and music. Kirar’s early influences stem from her upbringing in Chicago, where she was exposed to significant art and architectural collections, including works by Daniel Burnham, Louis Sullivan, Mies van der Rohe, Frank Lloyd Wright, Brancusi, Georgia O’Keeffe, René Magritte, and Salvador Dalí. These foundational experiences shaped her perspective, leading her to view furniture as sculptural objects and spaces as canvases for human experience. Kirar's passion for both art and architecture guided her career choice. She describes her approach as abstract, knowing when to adhere to design principles and when to innovate. The ability to create environments where lives unfold is a powerful motivator for her. Her current inspirations include contemporary artists, fashion designers, and musicians such as Peter Zumthor, David Wiseman, Milena Muzquiz, Monica Rezman, and Marcela Diaz. She expresses a particular fondness for coral pink in all its hues, describing it as luminous and soothing, suitable for various applications from walls to textiles. Travel plays a significant role in Kirar's inspiration, leading her to discover unique shops worldwide. In Mexico City, she frequents Trouve for vintage items. New York offers Les Atelier Courbet, The Future Perfect, and Artemest. In London, she highlights The Carpenters Workshop Gallery at Ladbroke Hall, and in Paris, Pierre Frey for textiles, along with various antique and vintage markets like Marche Biron. Mexico itself is a profound source of inspiration, influencing her sense of color, scale, and textures, and fostering her appreciation for traditional crafts found in its mountains, valleys, and cities like Oaxaca and the Yucatan. Kirar is also a passionate collector, believing that artists benefit from surrounding themselves with inspiring objects. Her collections include vintage chairs, ceramics, pottery, art books, hand-woven textiles, vintage cowboy boots, and silver Navajo accessories, all chosen for their stories. She recently acquired her fourth art piece by Cisco Jimenez, suggesting a new collection in the making. Her personal art collection includes a Cindy Sherman photograph, which has inspired the palette for an entire room. Beyond visual arts, Kirar finds inspiration in film, particularly through MUBI, enjoying classic films, film noir, thrillers, and sci-fi. She also has eclectic musical tastes, ranging from The Cure to opera, classical, rock, punk, and jazz, appreciating the intimacy of live performances. Among her extensive product designs, which number over a thousand, she favors the Mar floor lamp and Vargueno chair from her collection with Arteriors. Her Vir Stil and Paletta bath collections for Kallista have been bestsellers for two decades, and her Caviar chandelier for Arteriors has consistently topped its bestseller list since 2010. Kirar also enjoys cooking, drawing on her Italian heritage to create dishes like pici al limone with sautéed radicchio. She also puts a contemporary spin on traditional Mexican chiles rellenos. Her philosophy is that cooking can be spontaneous and creative, often improvising with available ingredients. This reflects her broader approach to design and life – a blend of diverse influences, personal passion, and creative adaptation. #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #LauraKirar #CreativeProcess #ArchitecturalInfluence #ArtInspiration #MexicanCrafts #DesignPhilosophy #GlobalTravel

Gilles Clement, an acclaimed designer and art dealer based in Greenwich, transformed a Colonial-style home in Purchase, New York, for a family of five. Clement's design philosophy challenges the conventional idea of aligning interior aesthetics with exterior architecture, emphasizing that personal identity and taste should dictate home design rather than architectural style or geographical location. His approach incorporates a bold, internationally inspired aesthetic, drawing from European flair and global influences, which is also reflected in his eponymous art gallery. The project began unexpectedly when Clement's future client purchased a distinctive and expensive Visionnaire console from his gallery. This uncommon purchase, made without Clement's direct sales involvement, piqued his interest, leading to a meeting that revealed the client's desire for a full home renovation. The client, who had lived in Manhattan, traveled extensively, and developed a strong appreciation for design and aesthetics, proved to be an ideal muse for Clement's distinctive style. She resonated deeply with his gallery's curated collection, which blends old and new elements and features art from international artists like David Datuna, Debra Franses Bean, Clement Kamena, Devorah Sperber, and Curtis Cutshaw. Clement characterizes his design style as "transitional and contemporary," opulent and luxurious, a sensibility that extends to the art, furniture, and decor showcased in his gallery and, ultimately, in his clients' homes. The Purchase home's transformation is anchored by its art collection, beginning with the Visionnaire console in the hallway, an Italian piece with a bold design featuring black beveled glass and cascading chains. Above it hangs a three-dimensional rendition of Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' by Clement Kamena, a creative duo composed of Clement's parents. This piece is part of their 'Jar Memory' series, which reinterprets art history masterpieces within jars, aligning with Clement's vision of making art accessible and collectible. The hallway is further enhanced by two Italian Terzani pendants, each crafted with seven handblown crystal balls. In the living room, an Il Pezzo Mancante lighting fixture, another Italian creation, acts as a central sculptural element, featuring handblown crystal balls and polished nickel and black powder-coated lacquer rods. The room also showcases another Clement Kamena 'Jar Memory' piece, a representation of Jeff Koons' 'Diamond,' chosen for its scale, color, and vibrant presence. Additional artwork includes a mixed-media piece by Natalia Kldiashvili, celebrating Coco Chanel's life through historical clippings and fashion collages. The space is completed with a luxurious silk rug from Nepal, distinctive Klismos chairs in black piano lacquer, and Clement's signature feather-adorned pillows. The powder room, curated around the homeowner's photograph of a woman with ostrich feathers, demonstrates Clement's commitment to integrating existing art into new designs. Despite its small size, the room achieves a "jewel box" aesthetic with dark paint, a mosaic brass-tile floor, a Maison Valentina vanity from Portugal, and a black toilet, an unconventional choice that Clement defends for its ability to blend seamlessly with the gold-leaf Japanese wallpaper and diamond-shaped lighting fixture from Holland. Clement emphasizes the critical role of lighting, often choosing sculptural, artistic fixtures from Europe that also serve as art statements. The kitchen, previously outdated, was expanded and reconfigured to accommodate the family of five and visiting grandparents. Clement personally designed the custom chandeliers, inspired by Brand van Egmond, to mirror the client's love for jewelry and glamour. The cabinetry, custom-built in Clement’s workshop, features piano lacquer with brass inserts. A backsplash combining solid brass and Nero Marquina marble, along with two angled Calacatta Gold Ultra Quartz islands, provides both luxury and functionality. The breakfast nook, an extension of the kitchen, features a Paolo Castelli chandelier, a custom silver-leaf ceiling, and Portuguese brass furniture. The dining room continues the opulent theme with Terzani lighting, Elitis wallpaper, custom furniture with Romo Zinc fabric, a custom rug, and a unique video artwork by MARCK from Switzerland. Throughout the home, Clement's design ethos is to create environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also mood-enhancing, viewing art as the "soul of the home" and a vital element in improving daily life. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ArtCollection #LuxuryLiving #GillesClementDesigns #ContemporaryDesign #InternationalInfluence #CustomFurniture #WestchesterHome

Ikea's interior design leader for the UK and Ireland, Clotilde Passalacqua, identifies the STOCKHOLM range as the most timeless and enduring collection offered by the Swedish furniture giant. Having styled thousands of rooms over her 16-year career with Ikea, Passalacqua consistently relies on the STOCKHOLM range due to its elegant, timeless aesthetic and durability, asserting that any piece purchased from this collection will effectively last a lifetime. She highlights the range's ability to seamlessly integrate into various home environments, citing her personal experience with a STOCKHOLM armchair that has adapted to multiple moves. The STOCKHOLM range, including the curated STOCKHOLM 2017 collection, is characterized by its use of natural and tactile materials such as rattan, hand-blown glass, and ash, embodying Scandinavian modernity. This design philosophy intentionally contrasts with a fast-paced world, emphasizing quality and the values associated with a more deliberate lifestyle. The collection spans a variety of home furnishings, including rugs, cushions, pouffes, sofas, and coffee tables. Passalacqua particularly recommends the rattan and Sandbacka dark grey STOCKHOLM armchair, praising its comfort provided by long-lasting pocket springs and its suitability for warm spring and summer evenings. Beyond specific furniture recommendations, Passalacqua offers broader decorating advice. She notes that pastel pink is a current trend and announces the upcoming introduction of Ramie, a hard-wearing and sustainable natural material, into Ikea's textile offerings. She stresses the transformative power of textiles in adding personality, color, and patterns to a room without requiring significant structural changes. Simple additions like new cushion covers or a fresh rug can update a space affordably. Furthermore, textiles serve functional purposes, such as curtains providing privacy and insulation, and cushions enhancing sofa comfort. The article also touches upon Ikea's recent and upcoming collaborations, signaling an exciting period for the retailer. These collaborations include partnerships with prominent brands like Adidas, Lego, and Solange Knowles' company Saint Heron. Additionally, Ikea provided a sneak peek at collections developed with Sonos and Virgil Abloh during its recent Democratic Design Day, showcasing its ongoing commitment to innovation and design partnerships. #Ikea #InteriorDesign #TimelessFurniture #STOCKHOLMRange #HomeDecor #ScandinavianDesign #SustainableMaterials #TextileDecor #ClotildePassalacqua

The article presents an interview with renowned interior designer Jeffrey Alan Marks, discussing current trends and shifts in the interior design industry. Marks, known for his California cool aesthetic and television appearances, shares insights from his home in Montecito, detailing how client preferences and the design process have evolved, especially in the wake of recent global changes. Marks observes a significant shift in consumer behavior, noting an unprecedented excitement for summer and a desire for home entertaining. He anticipates a period akin to the Roaring Twenties, where people prioritize creating safe, special, and intimate environments at home. This trend is driving demand for outdoor living spaces, larger barbecue areas, and indoor/outdoor bars, leading to sold-out outdoor furniture from major retailers like Restoration Hardware and Palecek. He emphasizes that the importance of home, particularly outdoor living areas, has become more pronounced, with individuals investing in these spaces to enhance their quality of life. He also highlights the digital transformation impacting the design industry. Online sales for his business have tripled, indicating a strong willingness among consumers to purchase items sight unseen, especially when familiar with the vendor. This digital boom extends to real estate, where properties are sometimes bought without physical visits. Clients are increasingly using digital tools like Instagram boards and Zoom meetings to conceptualize their design ideas, arriving with organized visions of what they want. This increased client involvement, Marks states, does not diminish his role but rather transforms it into a more collaborative guidance process, as clients still require professional expertise for sourcing unique items and navigating complex design decisions. Marks addresses the pervasive influence of large retailers like Restoration Hardware, noting that even affluent clients building multi-million dollar homes often present images from these brands as their desired aesthetic. He relates this phenomenon to the impact of cinematic sets, where curated environments, like Nancy Meyers's kitchens, become aspirational but are often misunderstood as easily replicable. Despite the popularity of these readily available styles, Marks finds his value in guiding clients through the process and adding a unique, curated touch, even when working with commercial products. Regarding art, Marks observes that clients are spending more time and money on collecting meaningful pieces rather than simply filling wall space. There is a growing inclination to wait for the 'right' artwork, reflecting a more thoughtful and personal approach to art acquisition, a trend not seen in other aspects of home decor. Marks expresses a desire for a return to 'preppiness' in home design, moving away from avant-garde or shock-value aesthetics. He advocates for infusing color into homes, describing his own house as red, white, and blue with green accents, and featuring candy-striped curtains. He believes color is crucial for psychological well-being and seeks to create happier, more jovial spaces, contrasting with the popular monochromatic styles seen in brands like Jenni Kayne. Finally, Marks discusses his approach to designing sophisticated beach houses, which diverge from the traditional floppy, shabby aesthetic. His designs incorporate tailoring, structure, and a refined sensibility, often drawing from English influences due to his training in England. He emphasizes the significance of 'the little things' in design—the details that make a lasting impression, such as curtains, antique bowls, or carefully placed potted plants. He strives to include one unexpected surprise in each room, a signature element that makes the space uniquely '#JAMapproved'.

Achieving a truly finished look in interior design extends beyond basic furniture placement and wall painting, often leaving individuals pondering the key elements that tie a space together. While opinions on the single most crucial finishing touch vary among design professionals, a consensus frequently emerges regarding window treatments as a paramount element in completing a room. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, window treatments offer essential functions such as privacy and light control, which significantly influence a room's ambiance and utility. Pamela O'Brien, president and lead designer at Pamela Hope Designs, emphasizes the importance of draperies to frame windows, offering both privacy and light-filtering capabilities. Veronica Sanders of Design with Veronica Sanders highlights how proper light control, achieved through window treatments, can prevent eye strain and establish the desired mood, asserting that unframed windows give a sterile impression. Window treatments are presented as a versatile and accessible way to infuse style and life into a room, available across various price points. Beyond window treatments, several other elements are critical for a fully realized interior. Art and accessories are instrumental in imbuing a space with personality and warmth, transforming it from merely styled to lived-in. O'Brien suggests incorporating art to reflect personal style, advocating for sourcing pieces from art fairs, student shows, and thrift shops to manage costs. Sanders elaborates that art introduces color, texture, and visual interest, making blank walls feel less stark and more inviting. Personal items, including photographs and vintage finds, are equally vital in creating a unique and meaningful narrative within a room. Kerrie Kelly, CEO and creative director at Kerrie Kelly Studio, notes that such personal touches lend authenticity, converting a beautiful space into one that resonates deeply with its occupants. These elements collectively tell the story of the inhabitants, creating a sense of permanence and individuality. Rugs are identified as another multifaceted design component, capable of enhancing a room through texture, color, interest, and comfort. O'Brien points out that rugs not only provide softness underfoot but also serve to anchor key areas like living spaces or bedrooms. Their ability to group furniture around them naturally fosters areas for relaxation and conversation, and their availability in diverse styles and price ranges makes them a flexible design solution. Lighting, described by Sanders as the “jewelry of any room,” plays a crucial role in the overall aesthetic and functionality. The selection of appropriate light fixtures can introduce contrast and interest, preventing a space from appearing dated or incomplete. Sanders recommends integrating recessed lights, dimmers, and pendants during renovations to control mood and scale effectively, as the emitted light influences both the visual and atmospheric qualities of a room. Finally, Kelly emphasizes a holistic approach, advocating for a balance of texture, proportion, and personalization. Layering materials such as linen, wood, and metal adds depth and elegance, while strategic furniture placement ensures visual harmony, culminating in a truly finished and cohesive interior. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #WindowTreatments #ArtAndAccessories #Personalization #Rugs #Lighting #DesignTips