How Studio Shamshiri Brings Storytelling to Interior Design

Chencong Zhang, an interior designer and spatial experience designer, embarked on her creative journey driven by a deep desire to create spaces that evoke a sense of belonging. Her personal experience of longing for comfort and familiarity, stemming from being away from her family since the age of 11 and being unable to see them for over 4.5 years due to the pandemic, fueled this aspiration. Initially, Zhang pursued civil engineering as an undergraduate, a popular field in China at the time. However, after two years, she realized it was not her true calling and took a gap year to explore modern arts, design, and other creative avenues. This period ignited an urge to pursue work that resonated emotionally and could impact others' feelings positively. Her first significant step into interior design came in 2015 when she had the opportunity to work on a 7000 sq ft office in Shanghai. The project's goal was to create a comfortable, communicative working environment that seamlessly integrated with its spacious outdoor terrace. Zhang's creative input, particularly her use of colors and materials in material boards and Photoshop renderings, was highly praised. She also collaborated on designing and installing a ceiling installation made of stone and wood, a challenging but rewarding experience that solidified her passion for design. In 2016, Zhang officially began her interior design education at RISD (Rhode Island School of Design). There, she learned about transforming old spaces, gaining inspiration from successful case studies, and connecting with like-minded peers and professors. A pivotal experience was a 2018 visit to Morocco with the Architecture and Ceramics department, where she immersed herself in Islamic art, rich colors, and intricate patterns. This trip, and the subsequent creation of pieces reflecting cross-cultural exchange, broadened her perspective and reinforced the impact of cultural fusion in design. Zhang views storytelling as the core magic behind creating distinctive and tailored spaces. She emphasizes that interior design is about imbuing spaces with personality and crafting a journey for occupants. Her process involves extensive research and imaginative exploration of possibilities. She cites a hotel rooftop design project in Miami, where she integrated elements inspired by the local subtropical climate, lush landscapes, and Bahamian murals, resulting in a bold and unique space that garnered positive online reviews. Zhang attributes her ability to be a good storyteller of spaces to her sensitive nature, which allows her to deeply feel and, in turn, enable others to feel. Her time at RISD, interacting with artists from various disciplines like digital art, glassmaking, furniture design, and textiles, further enriched her understanding of different media and their application in expressing a space's personality. While acknowledging the challenges of bringing creative designs to fruition, including time, cost, and durability, Zhang highlights the importance of problem-solving. Her experience leading the construction administration for a 200-key, $50 million hotel renovation project taught her invaluable lessons in collaboration with consultants, contractors, and clients, and in making informed compromises to deliver high-quality results. She defines her role as a designer as helping clients realize their dreams, emphasizing listening to their needs, offering options, and respecting their perspectives. Zhang's personal journey underscores the message of following one's heart to discover one's true self and purpose. #InteriorDesign #SpatialExperienceDesign #CreativeJourney #StorytellingInDesign #RISDAlumni #CulturalExchange #ProjectManagement #DesignPhilosophy #Entrepreneurship

Amanda Khouri and Mary Catherine Murray, the dynamic duo behind the interior design firm Murray Khouri, have been making significant strides in the design world, undertaking projects from New York to Nashville. Their distinctive approach to interior design is characterized by a spirited and unique style that incorporates abundant layers of texture and textiles, aiming to tell a compelling design story in every space they create. Their work recently garnered national attention when they were the only Nashville-based firm to exhibit at Atlanta’s prestigious Southeastern Designer Showhouse & Gardens, highlighting their growing influence and recognition in the industry. The inspiration for their design careers stems from varied personal experiences. Amanda, always a creative individual, discovered her passion for design during the renovation of an early 1900s apartment in Washington, D.C. This experience solidified her desire to transition from a political career, where she had worked on Capitol Hill and as an in-house lobbyist for Twitter and Google. She reconnected with Mary Catherine, whom she had met years prior during a Senate Staff Delegation trip to China, and together they decided to pursue their shared dream of establishing a design firm. Mary Catherine's love for design was sparked at a young age by her grandparents' eclectic collection of global treasures, which illustrated the power of a home to narrate a life story. This early exposure instilled in her a desire to help others craft personalized spaces filled with unique items, a vision she now realizes through Murray Khouri. When asked about their favorite projects, both designers emphasized the importance of client trust and collaboration. They find immense satisfaction in projects where clients are open to their suggestions, particularly those that might initially seem unconventional or risky. These instances, they note, consistently lead to the clients' most beloved spaces within their homes, underscoring the success of their collaborative approach. Their recent participation in the Southeastern Designer Showhouse & Gardens was a significant milestone, occurring rapidly after an unexpected invitation. With only ten weeks to prepare, they chose to transform a lower porch into a space that challenged conventional outdoor design, incorporating readily available antiques and vintage pieces. Their goal was to demonstrate that antiques can be utilized in unexpected settings to create warm and inviting atmospheres, pushing the boundaries of traditional interior design. Their Showhouse space drew inspiration from their travels, particularly envisioning the breezy, open-air ambiance of an old Moroccan hotel. They aimed to create a design that encouraged connection and conversation, making bold decisions while maintaining a sense of livability and serenity. This vision translated into a space that transported guests and invited them to linger. For those seeking to elevate their homes, Amanda advises focusing on the "little things"—the details that often make the biggest impact. Mary Catherine encourages buying only what one truly loves, advocating for patience to find cherished items that bring lasting satisfaction, rather than settling for less. This philosophy aligns with their aesthetic, which Mary Catherine describes as starting with a traditional foundation, then thoughtfully layering interesting and exotic accents to create a collected, energetic, inviting, and timeless feel. In their personal homes, both designers cherish items that reflect their unique tastes and experiences. Amanda's favorite piece is a large portrait by Nashville artist Anton Weiss, admired for its colors and the mischievous expression of its subject, acquired from an estate sale—a testament to her love for finding deals. Mary Catherine is particularly fond of the whimsical chintz wallpaper by Soane in her powder room, a choice inspired by a special piece of art from Marrakesh and reminiscent of Lee Radziwill's consistent use of beloved prints. Looking ahead, Amanda is excited by trends such as authenticity, citrus colors, and increased attention to ceiling design. Mary Catherine expresses enthusiasm for the decline of the open floor plan, preferring the value of cozy, intimate spaces that offer more opportunities for unique and diverse designs. #InteriorDesign #MurrayKhouri #TraditionalDesign #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy #Showhouse #ClientCollaboration #DesignTrends

The November 'Zeitgeist Edit' highlights a shift in the interior design industry, emphasizing the growing desire for immersive, experiential design over purely digital interactions. This month has seen a surge in brick-and-mortar offerings, designer apartments, and unique sources for home decor, reflecting a collective craving for tangible experiences in design exploration. A significant trend observed is the rise of 'Suite Living,' characterized by designer show apartments and hotel suites that offer immersive style showcases. London, a city not traditionally known for this concept due to its architectural stock, has recently unveiled two notable collaborations. Uchronia, in partnership with Pantone, designed a hotel suite at the Oriental Hyde Park during Frieze Week, infusing a traditional setting with fantastical designs inspired by the color celadon. Simultaneously, Róisín Lafferty collaborated with Artemest to transform a minimalist new-build apartment in the Ambassador Building at Embassy Gardens, injecting vibrant color and playful forms to redefine its character. Another emergent concept is that of 'Third Spaces,' which extends beyond traditional home and work environments to include places where people linger and engage. This month, the discussion around third spaces has gained traction, informing the design of independent concept stores and coffee shops in London. Even major retailers like John Lewis have introduced 'Lounge' concepts, providing members with spaces to relax amidst bustling shopping environments. A specific example is BOYS! BOYS! BOYS! on Warren Street, a wine bar and bookshop that also serves as a community hub for events, offering a physical space for connection and cultural engagement. The article also points to 'Dinner and a Show' as a burgeoning theatrical interior trend, particularly evident in the recently re-opened Wild Cherry restaurant in New York. This establishment, part of the restoration of the Cherry Lane Theatre and spearheaded by A24, offers moody, Art Deco-inspired interiors alongside live performances. The restaurant's design creates a dramatic and immersive dining experience, reinforcing the idea that interiors are becoming increasingly theatrical and integrated with performance art. Conversely, the trend of 'Traveling on Hand Luggage' is noted as being on the decline. The previous allure of minimalist, spontaneous travel is giving way to a preference for a more luxurious 'golden age of travel' aesthetic. This is reflected in the design world's embrace of travel trunks as functional home furniture, exemplified by La Erre's installations at the London Design Festival, and luxury accessories like RIMOWA's cocktail sets within its suitcases, suggesting a return to more elaborate and comfortable travel experiences. Finally, the 'Online Only' shopping model is experiencing a downturn, as consumers increasingly seek out physical retail experiences for interior design purchases. The opening of Bert & May's 'The Mix' in East London, a concept store housing various interiors brands like Farrow & Ball and Pluck, signifies a demand for tangible shopping environments where customers can touch and feel products. Similarly, Matilda Goad's MG&CO; on Ebury Road, a hardware and lighting store with charming, retro interiors, illustrates the appeal of brick-and-mortar shops that offer an enjoyable and immersive browsing experience, contrasting with the impersonal nature of online transactions. The article also highlights the growing acceptance and quality of artificial plants, with brands like Fake It now making high-end faux foliage accessible to the public, previously only available to designers. #DesignTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ExperientialDesign #RetailSpaces #LuxuryTravel #ThirdSpaces #TheatricalInteriors #BrickAndMortar

Krysti Lyn, a whole home designer, discusses her career journey, design philosophy, and personal experiences. She reveals that her career in design began at the young age of seven, identifying it as an innate gift for "seeing in scale." This ability allows her to visualize how objects fit within a room beyond their aesthetic contribution, a skill she considers a designer's superpower. Despite not actively choosing this path, she expresses gratitude for the opportunity to fulfill her purpose daily, serving clients who benefit from her unique perspective. Lyn specializes in a transitional design aesthetic, which involves blending and merging various design styles and periods. She emphasizes her versatility and ability to select appropriate materials for her clients, attributing her success to this client-centric approach. Her professional journey, however, has not been without challenges. She openly shares that her personal and work life was significantly impacted by domestic violence. This experience, while difficult, ultimately strengthened her resolve, teaching her the importance of self-advocacy and re-focusing on her future. She highlights that this period of adversity made her more determined and taught her to establish boundaries, including learning to say "no." Her professional goals include maintaining her status as an authority on design options, continuously integrating new products, tools, and styles into her practice. She prides herself on creating timeless designs for her clients, understanding that her work involves a significant degree of responsibility and trust. These two elements, she notes, are fundamental to her profession. She considers the ability to build and maintain trust with clients as paramount to her success. When asked about her recommendations for a friend visiting Los Angeles, Lyn outlines a personalized itinerary. This includes a casual meal at In-N-Out Burger, followed by a three-day staycation at her home in Palm Desert, complete with a hot tub, private massages, charcuterie, and Malbec red wine. The trip would also feature a short visit to Las Vegas for a show and a stay at a luxury hotel, interspersed with visits to quaint local spots for improv or murder mystery dinners. A morning drive to Malibu for breakfast to enjoy the scenic views is also on the list. For those interested in Hollywood, she mentions a visit to a famous celebrity cemetery. Significantly, she emphasizes introducing her friend, Kathy, to as many clients as possible, revealing Kathy's integral role as a faithful assistant, confidante, and source of support throughout her career. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of personal relationships in her professional life. Lyn also touches upon the role of mentorship in her career, stating that she did not have a traditional mentor. Instead, she navigated her early career through prayer and faith. She acknowledges one instructor from Harrington design college who authored a notable Modern Furniture Resource Book, and expresses that being recognized by Harpo Studios for her participation in "The Ugliest Room Contest" was a pivotal moment, making her feel understood and appreciated early in her career. This recognition served as a validation of her unique talent and approach to design. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TransitionalDesign #DesignPhilosophy #Entrepreneurship #PersonalJourney #CreativeProfession #ClientRelationships #LosAngeles

The article offers a detailed look into the professional life of Kirsty Vance, Associate Director of Interior Design at I-AM, an experience design agency. Vance's role is characterized by its dynamic nature, covering diverse projects in hospitality, food and drink, and retail banking, with notable clients such as Hedinn Bar & Kitchen in Iceland, KFC, and Sides Restaurant. She emphasizes that there is no typical day in her profession due to the variety of tasks involved, from preparing workshop materials and building 3D models for concept visuals to managing technical details for drawing packs. Her work is significantly influenced by hybrid working arrangements, allowing focused individual work from home and collaborative team sessions at the Shoreditch studio, where designers, directors, and account managers converge to review ideas and create. The scope of her involvement spans the entire design process, ensuring a constant influx of varied challenges. Vance shares her pride in two particular projects. The first is a hotel experience inspired by creator culture, which she found fascinating for its creative brief that encouraged pushing boundaries and incorporating humor through a 'parody' theme. The second is the Hedinn Bar & Kitchen in Reykjavik, Iceland, where the design concept was directly informed by the site's history as a steel factory and the dramatic Icelandic landscape. She describes translating the contrast of 'man versus nature' into organic forms and radiating chainmail drapes, creating a breathtaking dining experience. Visiting the completed space after the global pandemic was a particularly special moment for her. A significant challenge Vance discusses is imposter syndrome, a common struggle among professionals. She highlights that a genuine belief in one's work can cultivate confidence, which clients recognize as passion and expert energy, ultimately adding value to projects. Her early career provided crucial exposure to multidisciplinary studio environments, where she collaborated with graphic designers, gaining insights into creating comprehensive 'brand worlds'—a concept that has since become second nature to her. Vance defines an on-brand space by its ability to match a brand's energy and guide customer experiences subtly. She stresses that effective branding in physical spaces goes beyond overt messaging, focusing instead on sensory details like material textures, ambient sounds, and interaction dynamics, which collectively trigger emotional responses and create memorable narratives. Customer journeys are crucial for identifying potential issues and opportunities for enhancement, and these journeys must be tested against customer missions to ensure not only fulfillment but also enhancement, often aligning with digital touchpoints. I-AM employs various in-house tools for preliminary project stages, including Customer Journey workshops for idea exploration, Brand Key workshops for defining brand positioning and expression, and the application of Brand Archetypes to shape tone of voice and behavior. A core aspect of their methodology is creating detailed customer profiles to inform 'People Inspired Experiences.' When faced with creative blocks, Vance turns to unconventional sources like articles, stories, and folklore for inspiration, finding that unusual references often spark new ideas. Her dream project involves community-based initiatives, as explored in I-AM's 'Life-Led trends report,' aiming to create spaces that are meaningful and positively impact collective well-being. Her advice to her younger self would be to continuously ask questions and share ideas, as discussions are instrumental in leading to innovative outcomes. #InteriorDesign #BrandExperience #CreativeProcess #ExperientialDesign #CustomerJourney #ImposterSyndrome #DesignPhilosophy #CareerAdvice #CommunityProjects

ELLE Decor's 10th anniversary A-List compiles 125 of the most influential and innovative interior designers globally, showcasing their unique styles and notable projects. This extensive list has grown significantly from its initial 25 members in 2010, highlighting a diverse range of talent that consistently inspires with their creations worldwide. The featured designers are recognized for their distinct aesthetics, collaborations, and client portfolios, reflecting the broad spectrum of contemporary interior design. Among the distinguished firms is Aero Studios, founded by Thomas O’Brien, known for its warm modernism and collaborative approach, spanning residential lofts, apartments, and commercial projects like the Sixty Thompson hotel. Alberto Pinto Interior Design, led by Linda Pinto, upholds a legacy of lavish elegance, blending traditional and modern cultural influences in projects for private residences, offices, and luxury transport. Alessandra Branca, with her Italian upbringing, integrates classical beauty with vibrant energy and practicality, evident in her eclectic, colorful work and her book, 'New Classic Interiors.' Alex Papachristidis is recognized for his bold patterns, jewel tones, and exotic accents, having recently curated a Christie’s auction and designed numerous residences. Alyssa Kapito brings a fresh perspective to classic design, appreciating antiques and art in her minimalist projects across Manhattan, the Hamptons, and Beverly Hills. Aman & Meeks, comprising James Aman and John Meeks, leverage their backgrounds in store design and fashion to create elegant, tailored luxury rooms for high-profile clients. Amy Lau Design, established in 2001, is celebrated for warm, expressive interiors with meticulous attention to detail, frequently incorporating natural materials. Apartment 48, founded by color wizard Rayman Boozer, offers energetic and original designs for professionals and startups, known for its boho layers. Ashe Leandro, the New York City firm by Ariel Ashe and Reinaldo Leandro, combines contemporary luxury with natural materials to craft open and timeless spaces for celebrity clients. Axel Vervoordt, the Antwerp-based designer and antiquarian, is revered for his wabi-sabi style, mixing antiquities with modern furnishings for an influential aesthetic. Beata Heuman, a London-based designer, is noted for her whimsical, unexpected approach to interiors, characterized by a Scandinavian attention to detail and longevity. Jeffrey Bilhuber of Bilhuber & Associates offers an all-American take on classic decorating, appealing to clients like David Bowie and Anna Wintour. Brad Ford ID, based in New York, is known for his modern yet warm, elegant, and functional residential interiors, also organizing the biannual Field + Supply makers’ fair. Brian J. McCarthy, drawing inspiration from European culture, creates eclectic spaces rooted in history with a focus on functionality and sumptuous materials. Brockschmidt & Coleman, based in New York City, excel at merging historical references with modern sensibilities for their literati and collector clients. Bunny Williams Interior Design emphasizes classic comfort, combining European antiques with mirrored walls and bold artwork, showcasing her signature patinated luxury. Carrier and Company, the husband-and-wife duo Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller, create chic rooms that blend timeless and contemporary design. Champalimaud Design, led by Alexandra Champalimaud, specializes in luxury hospitality design, crafting spaces with individual character globally. Charlotte Moss, with a background in finance, balances classic decorating principles with modern household needs, inspired by pioneering women. Lastly, Commune, with partners Roman Alonso and Steven Johanknecht, are masters of the new California cool, focusing on handcrafted, holistic designs for homes, hotels, and products. #InteriorDesign #ELLEDecor #Designers #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDesign #DesignTrends #GlobalDesign #CreativeSpaces

This article details the collaboration between Benny Robles Jr. of Bartow Ford and Debra Ackerbloom Interiors, Inc. for the design of Robles' new home. The two-story residence, completed in 2024, is situated on three acres in Stone Lake Ranch, Thonotosassa, and encompasses seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, two double-car garages, and a climate-controlled gym. The design concept focuses on blending modern architecture with luxurious furnishings, fixtures, and materials to create a dramatic and immersive living experience. The interior design, orchestrated by principal designer Debra Ackerbloom and senior designer Jacinea Vela, features dynamic designs using modern building materials in natural tones and textures. High-performance textiles and leathers were selected to enhance the furnishings throughout the home. The early involvement of the interior design team in the architectural planning process was crucial, allowing for the seamless integration of Robles' aesthetic preferences and his passion for entertaining. Key design elements and features are highlighted throughout the residence. The exterior presents a combination of smooth pure white stucco, textural natural grey concrete, and dark walnut horizontal weatherproof Longboard. Upon entry, a custom pivot door leads into a foyer with a grand staircase and a soaring great room. Large-format Calacatta Gold porcelain tile covers the floors in this area. The great room's centerpiece is a 15-foot-by-15-foot custom sectional made of performance fabric, complemented by ebony leather swivel chairs and aged brass and ebony tables. The home also includes specialized entertainment spaces. The game room features a coffered ceiling, dark walnut hardwood planks, custom gaming tables, a burnished porcelain fireplace, and a tropical tank that separates it from a golf simulator. A hidden door leads to a Secret Lounge, which is accessed via a circular staircase. This lounge boasts a custom bar wrapped in vein-cut vanilla onyx, paired with black leather swivel bar stools accented with aged brass. Another game room located downstairs includes a sleek waterfall-edge bar made of Silver Wave marble, accented with backlit Verite glass, and complemented by tufted black leather barstools. The master ensuite is designed for comfort and luxury, featuring fireside swivel chairs, an upholstered platform bed, and seeded crystal pendants. The master bath is equipped with a double floating vanity against a full wall of custom Italian glass tiles, a Crema Delicato marble countertop, and Calacatta Gold porcelain floors and shower tiles. Other notable areas include an upstairs landing with a custom feature wall and lounge seating, and a downstairs sunroom. The sunroom incorporates Deco tropical wall tile, matte black and white floors, blush velvet seating, and a Deco aged brass pendant. The comprehensive design aims to create a sophisticated and cohesive living environment tailored to modern luxury and entertainment.

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

Jessica Schuster, founder and president of the New York-based design firm Jessica Schuster Design, discusses her journey into interior design, her approach to projects, and her creative philosophy. Schuster's firm handles a diverse portfolio, including residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces across the country, with notable projects such as residences in New York and the Esmé Hotel in Miami Beach. She emphasizes crafting unique spaces that balance the unusual with the familiar, maintaining a global awareness while committing to enduring interiors, defining "timeless joy" as the beauty of well-designed pieces that withstand time. Schuster initially pursued communications at New York University before earning an associate degree in interior and architectural studies from Parsons School of Design. She considers her entry into interior design as more of a natural evolution, influenced by her childhood exposure to design through her parents' home building project in Palm Beach and early internships in the field. When she established Jessica Schuster Design in 2013, she integrated lessons from previous firms, particularly the importance of operational organization, transparency with clients, and fostering a collaborative and innovative studio environment. Her creative energy is sustained through constant engagement with the world, including travel, art galleries, and design fairs, which she believes infuse fresh perspectives into each project. Schuster tailors her approach to diverse clients, ranging from families to bachelors and hospitality clients, educating them on how design can enhance their lives and create personalized luxurious experiences. She notes that each project dictates its unique palette, though she has recently gravitated towards deeper, saturated colors and the juxtaposition of contemporary pieces with antiques, such as Italian and French mid-century or Brazilian designs, to create dynamic and layered spaces. For hospitality projects, Schuster aims to create engaging spaces that spark conversation and evoke emotion. She is currently involved in a project at Windham Mountain Club in New York, where she is designing various spaces, focusing on creating a cohesive narrative while ensuring each area feels distinct. She acknowledges that both the architecture and location of a space inform her designs, but she also strives to create a sense of refuge, especially in bustling urban environments like New York, by balancing architectural elements with interiors that offer an escape. Designing her own apartment has presented a unique challenge, marked by a slower, yet rewarding, process. Her personal space has evolved into a more classical design, inspired by French classic designers and their use of timeless materials, serving as a sanctuary that reflects her current life stage. Currently, her firm is engaged in multiple projects across South Florida, NYC, the Hamptons, Malibu, and the Caribbean. Looking forward, Schuster aims to expand her portfolio further into hospitality and high-end residential design, consistently upholding the firm’s commitment to creativity, collaboration, and elevating spaces. #JessicaSchuster #InteriorDesign #DesignPhilosophy #HospitalityDesign #ResidentialDesign #TimelessDesign #CreativeProcess #ClientCollaboration #NewYorkDesign

Yoselin Alonso, the associate interior designer at METHOD & CONCEPT, approaches interior design as more than just surface aesthetics, seeing it as a holistic discipline that encompasses functionality and architecture. Her upbringing provided a foundational understanding of construction, with her father, a builder, teaching her practical skills like door installation and stair construction from a young age. Her mother, a seamstress, further cultivated Alonso's inclination towards working with her hands and fostering creativity. At METHOD & CONCEPT, Alonso collaborates with Chad Jensen, extending beyond traditional design tasks to integrate art and architecture. The firm, which is a sister company to the Thomas Riley Artisans’ Guild, functions as both a design studio and an art gallery, emphasizing the fusion of design and art. This approach ensures that artisanship is central to all projects, with spaces meticulously planned to highlight artworks. The team often commissions custom furnishings or millwork from Thomas Riley to realize specific visions or functional requirements, or they design entire rooms around a client's beloved art pieces. Alonso stresses that artists are considered integral to the design process itself. Alonso's role is comprehensive, involving her in every stage of a project. Her responsibilities range from conceptualizing designs and attending client meetings to conducting site visits, ordering materials, and developing project plans. She excels in creating 3D renderings, a skill Jensen notes was a valuable addition to the team. Additionally, Alonso is actively involved in developing METHOD & CONCEPT’s proprietary line of soft goods, which is scheduled for release in an upcoming season. Chad Jensen sought specific qualities when hiring for the associate interior designer position, describing his ideal candidate as a 'unicorn.' He was particularly drawn to Alonso's dualities: her polished and articulate presentation contrasted with her willingness to engage in hands-on tasks, such as driving a pickup truck and getting her hands dirty. Jensen observed that he and Alonso share a common design philosophy, prioritizing intentionality in their projects. This involves carefully considering how individuals will experience each space, its practical usage, and how the ambiance of a room transforms throughout the day. Jensen also values Alonso's genuine passion for her craft and her eagerness to learn, noting that she often dedicates weekends to the studio to learn from him, as he is also a practicing artist and maker of furniture and functional art objects. Alonso's personal creative inspirations often stem from her parents' native Mexico, drawing from places like Las Pozas, a surrealist garden in Xilitla. This sense of discovery fuels her desire to create unique and meaningful designs. At 27, she is rapidly refining her unique style, influenced by her work with Jensen and the METHOD & CONCEPT team, as well as her desire to remain close to her family in Bonita Springs. She expresses contentment with her current professional and personal environment, affirming that she has found her ideal place. Her initial attraction to the company was solidified by observing Chad Jensen's office, which showcased materials, sketches, and renderings that illustrated a detailed and considered design process, aligning with her preference for thoroughness in design. #InteriorDesign #HomeDesign #ArtIntegration #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomFurnishings #DesignProcess #CreativeInspiration #LuxuryInteriors

Brittny Button, an interior designer and real estate investor, discusses her journey in establishing her own business and her unique design philosophy. Her passion for building, architecture, and design naturally led her to open an interior design firm, where she focuses on transforming spaces. Additionally, she realized a long-held dream by opening Button Atelier, a shop within the Agoura Antique Mart. This venture allows her to showcase and sell her collection of vintage furniture, many of which have been revitalized with new upholstery, alongside a curated selection of decorative accessories. Button's distinctive design aesthetic is deeply rooted in Old World European Classicism, with a particular fondness for Spanish architecture and Art Deco-inspired furniture. Her past projects have garnered significant recognition, being featured in prominent publications such as Architectural Digest, Vogue Living, Homes & Gardens, and Living etc. This acclaim underscores her ability to create aesthetically pleasing and functional living environments. A notable challenge she identifies in her work is the difficulty of assembling a cohesive on-site team, including project managers, contractors, and subcontractors, who fully grasp and align with her design vision. She emphasizes the importance of shared understanding, even suggesting that it is better to disengage from a project if the team is not in sync, to ensure the integrity of the final outcome. Button Atelier is envisioned as an evolving 'workshop' or 'studio,' extending beyond a traditional interior design firm, with various exciting projects anticipated for completion later in the year. When asked about local recommendations, Button suggests visiting the Pacific Design Center in LA to explore new home furnishings. For family outings, she highlights the playground at Malibu Country Mart, often combined with lunch at one of the local restaurants. She also enjoys browsing CB2 Design Shop in Malibu for new arrivals. For unwinding with friends, Soho House and Nobu in the same vicinity are her preferred spots. She acknowledges the significant impact of recent fires on the Malibu area, expressing empathy for affected families and businesses, and offering her design services at free or reduced rates to support those who have suffered losses. Button attributes much of her success and development to the influence of her parents, who fostered her artistic eye from a young age through their shared passion for collecting antiques and architectural history, particularly Art Deco. Accompanying them to flea markets and estate sales instilled in her a joy for discovering and reimagining vintage pieces, a practice she has maintained throughout her life. She recalls acquiring a vintage chandelier and mirror for her bedroom in high school, marking the beginning of her fascination with reclaimed items. Her husband, Jenson Button, is credited as a constant source of support over the past decade, granting her full creative freedom in their home renovation projects and bolstering her confidence in her design capabilities. Her four-year-old daughter, Lenny, also expresses an interest in following in her mother's footsteps, aspiring to design houses. #InteriorDesign #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #DesignAesthetics #VintageFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #SmallBusiness #CreativeProcess

Vincent Celano, the founder of New York-based Celano Design Studio Co., has established a reputation over three decades for creating transformative experiences in hospitality and architectural design. His work is characterized by lifestyle-driven concepts and a strong emphasis on authenticity and sustainability. Celano achieves this by integrating personalized approaches, thoughtful conceptualization, and collaboration with local artists and makers in his projects. His portfolio includes collaborations with major hospitality entities such as José Andrés Group, Hakkasan Group, and Marriott Hotels, as well as Resorts World Las Vegas. Recent notable projects highlight his diverse design capabilities. These include Catezza in Red Bank, NJ; La Concha Autograph Collection in San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Meximodo in Metuchen, NJ. One featured project, The Hiatus Clearwater Beach, Florida, is an 88-room boutique hotel developed in partnership with 3H Group. This Hilton property, located along Clearwater Beach, boasts ocean and bayside water views, a lobby bar and lounge, a restaurant, and a rooftop pool bar. The hotel's design incorporates teak wood planking and warm, clay-colored wallcoverings, while the reception area features jewel-box-like sculptural white-washed wood desks with brass accents. A layered textured glass chandelier, inspired by local shells, hangs in the lobby, complemented by coral-colored gradient glass screens that evoke the property's sunset views. A significant artistic element is a large hand-painted mural by local artist Derek Donnelly, depicting a woman and floral motif, which has become a community landmark and an iconic beacon for the hotel. Celano describes The Hiatus as embodying a relaxing, modern coastal experience, allowing guests to pause and rejuvenate. The color palette, dominated by greens, symbolizes harmony with nature and draws inspiration from coastal foliage, promoting feelings of growth, renewal, and vitality. Another project, ¡VIVA! in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a Mexican restaurant by celebrity chef Ray Garcia. Celano Design Studio Co. infused the vibrant culture of Oaxaca, Mexico's mezcal bars with a Las Vegas twist, resulting in an approachable, lively, and sophisticated 8,000-square-foot space. It features an indoor promenade patio, a main dining area, a feature bar, a 1,000-square-foot outdoor patio, and a private dining room. An infinity mirror at the entrance creates an interactive art installation, while a mural from the patio extends into the bar, serving as a backdrop for a tequila bottle display. The bar's central design element is a large wood and rattan ceiling feature, with 'petals' inspired by the blue agave plant, casting dramatic shadows. The dining room includes a large driftwood sculpture surrounded by four round banquettes with channel tufting. The outdoor patio maintains an eclectic and residential feel with a wood trellis, overgrown greenery, colorful upholstery, graphic patterns, and area rugs, making it suitable for elegant dinners or casual drinks. The Barbershop Cuts & Cocktails in Las Vegas, Nevada, offers an authentic old-school barbershop experience. The design, inspired by gilded barbers, emphasizes polished chrome, white porcelain, and crafted wood details. Dark hardwood floors, vintage tin ceilings, decorative chandeliers, and tufted furniture create a classic ambiance. An extensive wall of shelves and an 1885 vintage Brunswick bar are stocked with a vast collection of brown spirits. The lounge area features a custom-designed motorcycle lamp wall and a disappearing stage for live performances and karaoke, offering an unexpected twist to the traditional barbershop setting. Meximodo Cocina & Cocteles in Metuchen, NJ, is a modern Mexican restaurant that blends vibrant colors, rich textures, and crafted details with classic Mexican cooking. Large windows allow a full view of the lively interior, while colorful metal flowers and lush greenery define the patio dining area with residential-style seating and graphic patterns. The design incorporates colorful porcelain tiles, sculptural stepped wood banquettes, bright hues, and a rose tunnel featuring thousands of floating roses above the main dining room, along with a custom floral wallcovering and a hanging garden swing, to create a festive and unforgettable celebratory destination. #InteriorDesign #HospitalityDesign #RestaurantDesign #HotelDesign #LuxuryInteriors #EclecticStyle #TransformativeExperiences #AuthenticityInDesign #Sustainability

Tiffany Thompson, founder of Duett Interiors in Portland, Oregon, shares insights into her journey from working at Nike to establishing her interior design firm, emphasizing the unconventional path she took and the unique principles guiding her business. Born and raised in Queens, New York, Thompson initially had no exposure to interior design as a career. Her early life was immersed in sports, leading her to believe that a career not requiring formal attire was her calling. After playing soccer in college, she worked for a basketball team in Miami, which eventually led her to a position at Nike in Chicago at 22, and later in New York and Portland. Throughout her time at Nike, Thompson found herself naturally decorating her dorms and apartments, an activity she initially dismissed as a viable career. Her friends, however, consistently sought her help with their spaces, paying her modest sums or offering free food. This informal side hustle grew, especially after she purchased a house in Portland in 2016. At Nike, Thompson moved through various roles, starting as an administrative assistant and transitioning into marketing for influencers before it became a mainstream concept. She built significant relationships, including with figures like Virgil Abloh, by focusing on genuine connections rather than transactional interactions. She later worked as a tech rep, discussing Nike products, and eventually joined the apparel design team in Portland, where she managed product lines for athletes like Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal, and contributed to women's sportswear footwear, including Air Force 1s. Her core strength throughout these roles was storytelling, connecting products to new consumers by highlighting their heritage and tweaking designs. Thompson credits her Nike experience with teaching her how to run a $50 billion company, including identifying market gaps and converting opportunities into sales. She also learned the importance of making mistakes and seeking guidance from leaders. Storytelling remains a cornerstone of her design philosophy; she uses it to connect clients emotionally to their spaces, drawing inspiration from diverse sources like global architecture and personal travel experiences. Her design approach often starts with the "why" behind a design choice, engaging clients in the narrative before presenting the aesthetic. This method is deeply personal, stemming from her own experience of being adopted and her desire to create comfortable, belonging-infused spaces for others. The transition to full-time design was unexpected; Thompson was fired from Nike, an event she now views as a necessary push to pursue her passion. Her first clients were acquaintances and friends, including an NFL player and an NBA superstar, who trusted her based on her reputation and past work ethic at Nike. These high-profile projects, including designing a $17 million condo in San Francisco, prepared her for the demands of high-end clientele. She now works on a variety of projects, including residential homes, a custom build for the NW Natural Street of Dreams, and an English Tudor-style house. She also participated in a TV show for Discovery+ and HGTV, redesigning spaces for teenagers who made significant contributions during COVID-19, which allowed her to apply luxury design concepts to more approachable projects. Thompson is deliberate about her project selection, prioritizing compatibility with clients, as she views the design process as an intimate, emotional collaboration. She aims for her designs to serve as backdrops for clients' memories rather than temporary trends. Her firm, Duett Interiors, reflects her belief in harmonizing client needs with unexpected, beautiful outcomes. She emphasizes creating grand moments and activating the five senses rather than adhering to a minimalist or maximalist label. She strives to build an all-female or majority-women team with diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives to ensure variety and prevent her designs from becoming repetitive. Thompson plans for Duett Interiors to grow steadily, focusing on quality over quantity, with an eventual expansion into product design and television to showcase her firm's ethos to a broader audience. She and her boyfriend are also committing to planting roots in Oregon, aiming to contribute to and diversify the local design scene, highlighting the state's unique advantages like no sales tax and a vibrant artisan community. #InteriorDesign #BusinessDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #StorytellingInDesign #NikeInfluence #FinancialLiteracy #PortlandDesignScene #WomenInDesign #ClientRelationships

The field of interior design is undergoing a significant transformation, moving beyond traditional aesthetics to embrace technology-driven experiences. This shift is highlighted by David Taglione of ICRAVE, a multidimensional design studio, who emphasizes the integration of physical, digital, and virtual elements to create immersive environments. The article outlines how digital technology is drastically changing how physical environments are created, requiring designers to think multidimensionally and incorporate digital strategy and customer journey mapping into their briefs. The evolution of interior design now prioritizes "experience design," where spaces are crafted to engage patrons through immersive brand experiences, integrating digital and immersive design with strong visual narratives. Key examples illustrate this evolution, starting with Sphere in Las Vegas, a project that demonstrates the critical role of emerging technology in the entertainment industry. For Sphere, a high-tech architectural lighting system was implemented to manipulate the venue's mood and energy, ensuring an immersive connection for guests and building anticipation for events. Another project, TSX Broadway in Times Square, aims to revolutionize artist-fan connections by blending physical and virtual worlds. This multi-use building incorporates augmented retail, futuristic showrooms with LED screens, a retractable stage, and a 'Retail Alley' with a programmable tunnel, offering both real-life and metaverse experiences. The project leverages Web3 capabilities to unite entertainment-seekers and level the playing field for artists and brands. The impact of virtual and digital technologies extends to healthcare and travel, as seen in the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center project. Here, technology was used to enhance the patient and family experience, making cancer care less anxiety-inducing. A personalized Real-Time Locating System (RTLS) device was introduced to allow patients, caregivers, and staff to move more freely within the facility, providing patients with greater agency and control over their time during treatment. This approach aims to create a more hospitable and less restrictive environment, enabling patients to use their time more thoughtfully and productively. Digital technology is also instrumental in revitalizing historical destinations and exhibitions. For London's iconic Battersea Station, digital elements such as animated technical drawings and interactive tables with AR web apps were integrated to engage a new generation of audiences. These digital tools worked together to tell a cohesive story, allowing visitors to participate actively in the Power Station's rich history, transforming it into a dynamic entertainment destination. Since its reopening, Battersea Station has attracted over 11 million visitors, demonstrating the success of combining historical reverence with modern technological engagement. As a result of these advancements, the role of interior designers has expanded significantly. Designers are now tasked with finding technological solutions that harmonize with physical spaces and connect emotionally with consumers. The shift from focusing purely on aesthetics to creating multidimensional experiences signifies a new era in design, where technology is not just a tool but a fundamental component in crafting engaging and impactful environments. #InteriorDesign #DigitalTransformation #ExperienceDesign #ImmersiveExperiences #TechnologicalInnovation #SphereLasVegas #TSXBroadway #HealthcareDesign #ArchitecturalLighting

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

This blog post explores a Mumbai home, named "61 Shades of Joy," situated 61 floors high in Oberoi Sky City, designed by The SS Story, led by architects Snehal Mehta and Surbhi Patil. The project aimed to transform a multi-generational family home into an exuberant, elegant, and emotionally resonant space, reflecting the individuality of its residents while maintaining a cohesive design. The core design philosophy centered on creating a brighter, airier environment where three generations could coexist, each with their own distinct spaces, by incorporating "bursts of joy" throughout the interiors. The design process began by maximizing openness, taking inspiration from the panoramic views of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Walls were strategically removed, and rooms were merged to create a seamless living, dining, and kitchen expanse, designed to feel as expansive as the vista it overlooks. The entrance sets the tone for the home's playful personality with a black safety door adorned with 61 vibrant veneer cut-outs, a direct nod to the home’s name and floor number. The foyer features soft curves, maroon artwork, and a sculptural gold console, introducing the tactile elegance that defines the rest of the interiors. The open-plan living, dining, and kitchen areas are designed to be continuous yet distinct. Fluted panels behind the sofa add depth, while a rippling marble ledge and graphic black-and-white veneer doors provide texture and contrast. The kitchen, integrated with the dining area, is both functional and aesthetically striking, featuring a multicoloured veneer dining island that visually connects to the entrance door. This central area is further enhanced by maroon and blue center tables, a blown smoked-glass chandelier, and a matte-gold sculptural mandir, which serves as a serene yet striking centerpiece with its soft curves and geometric accents. Each bedroom is uniquely tailored to its occupant. The daughter's room is a whimsical space featuring scalloped shelves, pearl-studded wardrobes, and playful flamingo and dragonfly motifs, alongside a heart-shaped chest. A window ledge creates a daydreaming nook, and a mirrored panel with soft glowing globes adds a theatrical touch. In contrast, the parents’ bedroom offers a grounded and calm retreat, utilizing earthy beige tones, rust-flecked panels, and subtle gold accents. Geometric detailing replaces conventional motifs, creating a warm and tactile environment. The young couple’s studio bedroom is designed with boldness, using a striking palette of black, white, and red to reflect their love for music and travel. A sculptural red wave headboard anchors the room, complemented by a black-and-white ceiling papered with musical notes. Personalized elements include a handmade artwork made from shells collected during their travels, a marine-inspired totem lamp, and a bright red dice leg beneath the TV unit, all contributing to a unique narrative. The bathrooms continue this expressive character, with the master bath echoing the studio’s black and red theme, and the second bath featuring a vibrant, quirky yellow design with playful details. The project, executed with the support of Ritu Upadhyay and Astha Khandelwal, ensures that every detail, from corners to fixtures, tells a story, harmonizing functionality with intimate touches. Clean lines and timeless materials form the foundation, while vibrant pops of color and texture infuse energy into each space. The home is presented not merely as a high-rise apartment but as an "emotional elevation," symbolizing a beautiful, bold, and collective way of living. It underscores that luxury is found in personal stories, spirit, and soul, rather than just size or location. #MumbaiHomes #InteriorDesign #MultiGenerationalLiving #ColorfulInteriors #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #TheSSStory #HomeDecor #PlayfulDesign