Interior Designers Share Their Highlight Reels

Interior Design magazine's prestigious Hall of Fame gala recently marked its 40th anniversary in December, an event that annually celebrates the career achievements of a select group of inductees. Initiated in 1985, the gala recognizes design professionals who have not only produced innovative work but have also cultivated a lasting legacy through their mentorship, bold approach to their craft, and commitment to driving positive change within the industry. This year, the magazine collaborated with 3form, a prominent company specializing in architectural resin and glass, to produce a video playlist. This series features 30 short documentary films, each highlighting the significant accomplishments of various Hall of Fame inductees. 3form, known for its expertise in curation and color, recently introduced its 2025 Color Collection. The company's deep understanding of the emotional impact of both vibrant and subtle hues is reflected in this new collection, which encourages introspection and explores how color, much like design, influences one's experience within a given space. The collection encompasses a diverse range of colors, from fiery reds with orange undertones and lush teals to rich winterberry shades, complemented by more subdued, grounding tones that project a sense of quiet confidence. This emphasis on color aligns with the celebrated careers of Interior Design’s Hall of Famers, many of whom have masterfully demonstrated the transformative power of combining the right palette, textures, and materials with deliberate intent. Each short film in the series offers viewers an intimate look into the creative processes and philosophies of the esteemed designers. These films showcase a variety of projects, from vibrant hospitality venues to homes rich with personal character, illustrating the design magic behind each creation. The featured inductees from this year include Adam Rolston, Drew Stuart, and Gabriel Benroth, who are the founding partners of INC Architecture & Design. Also honored are David Galullo, CEO and chief creative officer of Rapt Studio, and Holly Hunt, founder of HOLLY HUNT and House of Hunt. The video playlist, titled “Hall of Fame Icons: Industry Titans” and presented by 3form, also pays tribute to notable figures from previous years. The collaboration between Interior Design and 3form provides a comprehensive platform to acknowledge the enduring impact of these design luminaries. By presenting their work and contributions through a visual medium, the series aims to inspire and educate a broader audience on the intricate relationship between design, color, and human experience. The initiative reinforces the importance of recognizing individuals who shape the built environment and contribute significantly to the evolution of interior design. Viewers are encouraged to watch the “Hall of Fame Icons: Industry Titans” playlist, available on DESIGNTV by SANDOW, and to explore 3form’s 2025 Color Collection to delve deeper into the interplay of color and design inspiration. #InteriorDesign #HallOfFame #DesignIcons #3form #ArchitecturalResin #ColorCollection #DesignFilms #DesignLegacy #IndustryTitans

The Wallpaper* Design Awards have recognized a calming and elegant interior space as the 'Best Reflective Space.' This acclaimed design features a curated collection of pieces from leading studios, utilizing noble materials to create a serene environment. The article highlights key components of this award-winning interior, detailing the design philosophy and features of each. Jean-Marie Massaud’s ‘Creek’ coffee table for Poliform, for instance, showcases the architect's preference for lightness through its construction of two marble panels joined by a brushed metal frame. Nendo’s ‘Tape’ sofa, produced for Minotti, stands out for its meticulous detailing, including a gracefully curved outer shell and subtly integrated metal bands that secure its feet. The ‘Piega’ mirror, a creation by Victoria Wilmotte for ClassiCon, is crafted from bent, mirror-polished stainless steel, generating an engaging interplay of refraction and reflection within the space. Complementing these elements are the ‘Lane’ tiles by Barber & Osgerby for Mutina, which are glazed stoneware enriched with color palettes inspired by various London brick types, adding a subtle yet sophisticated textural dimension. The interior also incorporates Hagit Pincovici’s asymmetric ‘Selene’ sideboard for Baxter, an elegant composition of Italian marble, lacquered surfaces, and shiny metal legs, contributing to the space's luxurious feel. Lighting is provided by GamFratesi’s blown glass ‘Soffi’ pendants for Poltrona Frau, which are suspended delicately from slender leather belts featuring contrasting stitching, adding an ethereal quality. Benjamin Hubert’s versatile basket for Fritz Hansen, featuring a pressure-moulded ash veneer shell and a solid steam-bent ash handle, offers both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The overall design is further enhanced by the choice of paints, ‘De Nimes’ and ‘School House White’ from Farrow & Ball, which contribute to the calming ambiance, and the ‘Glamour 2400’ carpet from Object Carpet, providing a soft and luxurious foundation. This collection of carefully selected and harmoniously arranged furniture and decorative items demonstrates a thoughtful approach to modern interior design, emphasizing serenity, quality craftsmanship, and timeless elegance, culminating in an environment that truly earned its recognition as the 'Best Reflective Space' at the Wallpaper* Design Awards. #InteriorDesign #WallpaperDesignAwards #ModernInteriors #DesignExcellence #LuxuryFurniture #HomeDecor #ContemporaryDesign #AwardWinningDesign #ResidentialDesign

This article explores the favorite home items of various interior designers, offering insights into products they would repeatedly purchase and tips on how to incorporate them into personal living spaces. Kimberly Bevan from Bevan Interiors highlights the Design Within Reach Rice Paper Shade, praising its ambient glow, large-scale buoyancy despite its size, and versatility across modern and traditional settings, all at an accessible price point. She advises light feather dusting for maintenance. Emily Vaughan of Emily Vaughan Interiors recommends the BlueStar Range, a professional-grade appliance acquired during a 1952 home renovation. She values its open burners for even high-temperature cooking, easy-to-clean cast iron cooktop, and capacity for two full-size sheet pans, noting that colorful appliance options could enhance cohesion in a kitchen. Shelagh Conway from Triple Heart Design values the Maison Distressed Black Oak 4-Door Buffet Sideboard as a substantial dresser that provides a grounding element in her large bedroom, adapting to various design changes. She suggests embracing black in bedrooms for a calming effect, often mixing it with other wood tones for textural depth. Byron Risdon of Byron Risdon Interior Design Studio endorses West Elm Luxe Chenille Throws for their softness, luxury, and durability, making them suitable for both guests and daily use. He looks for comfort, softness, and durability in throws, suggesting a size that covers the body without being overly large. Ariel Richardson, lead designer at ASR Design Studio, praises the Miele Washer and Dryer for its compact, stackable design, efficient cleaning cartridges, and ventless drying technology, which allows for flexible placement. She emphasizes the environmental and clothing benefits of front-load washers. Tamara Honey of House of Honey finds the Disco Ball to be an instant mood transformer, recommending its placement near a window to enhance the magical effect of glimmering lights. Aimee Meisgeier from AM Interior Design favors the Beta Modular Sofa for its deep comfort, modular customization, and corduroy fabric, which is both cozy and practical for pet owners. She advises measuring the space and defining needs before purchasing a modular sofa. Linette Dai of Linette Dai Design cherishes the CB2 Muse Smoked Coupe Glass for its chic design and modern aesthetic, using it for both cocktails and sparkling water. She suggests pairing coupe glasses with bite-sized snacks in sculptural dishes. She also appreciates the CB2 Suspend Walnut & Marble Media Console for its natural elements, beautiful walnut veneer, marble top, and practical storage. She advocates for minimalist styling of console tops with essential, functional decor. Azali Kassum of Azali Kassum Design collects Victoria Morris's ceramics, specifically the Large Gourd Vase in Ivory, for its unique handmade flair and sculptural elegance. She advises hand-washing ceramics with gentle soap and air-drying in the sun. Gina Gutierrez from Gina Rachelle Design recommends the Joss & Main Tellis Marble Picture Frame for its classic and timeless appeal, versatility in size and finish, and ability to fill empty spaces. She applies the “rule of three” for styling. Sarah Rinehart Fleischer of SRF Interiors finds joy in Dana Bell's painting, “Dancing on Yellow, 2001,” for its bold colors and perfect fit in an awkward wall space. She suggests keeping room measurements handy for online art purchases. Lorna Gross, CEO of LORNA GROSS Interior Design, finds the Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Home Scented Candle to be a constant source of calm. She advises keeping candle lids on to prevent dust and burn marks, and lighting kitchen candles after meals. Nadia Watts of Nadia Watts Interior Design highlights the Kartell Pilastro Stool for its unique lines, interesting shape, and multi-functional use as a side table, footstool, or extra seating. She prefers furniture that is both artistic and functional. Brianna Untener of Brianna Scott Interiors loves the Serena & Lily Milo Alpaca Throw for its softness, luxury, and year-round coziness. She prefers displaying throws on chairs to visually unify a room. Shauna Glenn of Shauna Glenn Design trusts the Annie Selke Paint Chip Multi Hand Micro-Hooked Wool Rug for its durability in high-traffic areas and ease of cleaning. She emphasizes regular vacuuming and shaking of wool rugs. Joni Burden of J. Banks Design favors the Gabby Laura Swivel Chair for its timeless elegance, compact size, comfort, and versatility. She appreciates swivel chairs in family rooms for their adaptability. Isabel Ladd of Isabel Ladd Interiors consistently uses Palmer Green Paint by Benjamin Moore, describing it as a deep, rich green with yellow undertones that acts as a neutral in maximalist aesthetics. She recommends using tinted primer and considering the desired ambiance when choosing green paint. Ariel Richardson also champions Ruggable Rugs for their durability, washability, and stain-repelling properties, making them ideal for households with pets and children. She advises washing on a delicate cycle with cold water and low heat drying. Abby Gruman of Abby Leigh Designs chose the Artistic Frame Studio Side Chair for its cane and wood contrast, modern flair, and traditional essence, valuing it for family gatherings. She notes the current trend of cane in unexpected furniture pieces. Laetitia Laurent of Laure Nell Interiors transformed her family room with Phillip Jeffries 9190: Beat Wallpaper, creating a living mural that unifies the space and encourages creative endeavors. She suggests regular dusting and occasional wiping for wallpaper maintenance. Alex Yeske of Alex Yeske Interiors appreciates The Rush House Original Rug, a natural fiber seagrass rug, for its warmth, texture, softness, and customizable, replaceable squares. She recommends vacuuming on a lighter setting and blotting stains for natural fiber rugs. Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt Design Studio values the Breville Barista Touch Espresso Machine for its combination of functionality and quality, including an integrated burr grinder and steam wand. She suggests creating a dedicated coffee station. Paige Blodgett Scher of Paige Blodgett Interiors painted her entryway with Bancha Paint by Farrow & Ball to define and warm the small space, praising its yellow undertones and dramatic effect. She advises choosing darker shades to add depth to small areas. Cynthia Lananh of Cynthia Lananh treasures the Le Labo Santal 26 Classic Candle for its neutral, sophisticated scent and elevated packaging. She suggests pairing candles with design-savvy accessories. Brittany Hakimfar of Far Studio considers the Zip Water HydroTap Celsius All-in-One Water Filter Faucet her most beloved appliance for its instant still, sparkling, hot, and cold water delivery in luxurious finishes. She recommends classic chrome or matte black for contemporary kitchens and living brass for traditional ones. Finally, Lina Galvão of Curated Nest loves the Scout Design Studio Promenade Sofa for its approachable style, sculptural arms, comfort, and forgiving fabric. She notes that for modern, sculptural sofas, one might forgo pillows to let the shape shine. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignerPicks #HomeFurnishings #DecoratingTips #ApplianceRecommendations #Textiles #ArtAndAccessories #PaintColors

The article explores the transient nature of interior design trends, gathering insights from 17 designers across the country on which trends they believe should be permanently retired. While some designers, such as David Scott, argue that trends can become classic in the right context, others, like Malene Barnett, advocate for timeless individual style over fleeting fads. The article emphasizes that not all trends are worthy of longevity or resurrection, particularly those that evoke a sense of datedness or lack of originality. It then delves into specific trends identified by various designers as needing to disappear. Young Huh targets neon signs as art, suggesting their appeal is compelling but ultimately warrants removal. Francis Sultana expresses strong disapproval for the 'airport-lounge' aesthetic, criticizing its faceless, soulless, and generic feel that lacks a sense of place. Drew McGukin points out macramé, associating it with an 'army-of-sameness' in Brooklyn design. Shana Sherwood of Sherwood Kypreos argues against decor that mimics other materials, such as porcelain tile imitating wood, advocating for authenticity. Miles Redd succinctly states his aversion to chenille, finding it unpleasant to the touch. Fern Santini advises against matchy-matchy furniture suites, suggesting that complementary but not identical pieces create a more personal and accumulated look that resists dating. Tiffany Zhou of Studio Zhou is over IKEA brass handles and white subway-tile backsplashes due to their ubiquity. Robert Couturier critiques 'soulless art collections' acquired without genuine appreciation. Ashley Hicks and Mally Skok both target feature walls and wallpapered ceilings, respectively, for disrupting spatial harmony and suggesting ceilings should be uniformly colored. Ashley Hanley calls for the end of 'fast furniture,' advocating for conscious material use and the repurposing of secondhand or antique items to create unique pieces. Chandos Dodson Epley highlights bouclé and shearling as impractical for families with children and pets. Caleb Anderson and Chad Graci both express strong disdain for barn doors, describing them as cumbersome, awkward, and detrimental to interior aesthetics, especially in non-barn settings. Natalie Kraiem finds Edison light bulbs outdated, despite her appreciation for retro-inspired fixtures. Mally Skok also rejects waterfall counters, seeing them as an unsuccessful attempt at modernizing kitchens. Chandos Dodson Epley further warns against 'cutesy millwork' with scalloped or fanciful flourishes, noting that such trendy details can quickly age a home and be costly to replace. Veronica Valencia is surprised to still see granite countertops paired with mosaic-glass backsplashes, advocating for more cost-effective alternatives. Finally, Martyn Lawrence Bullard offers a nuanced perspective, acknowledging the transient nature of trends but advising designers not to blindly follow them, but rather to be open to both old and new influences and to unknowingly create trends themselves. The article concludes by encouraging designers to remain open-minded and constantly evolve in their approach to design. #InteriorDesignTrends #DesignCritique #HomeDecor #TimelessDesign #DesignerOpinions #ResidentialInteriors #AestheticPreferences #DecoratingAdvice

This article highlights the personal favorite rooms of five prominent interior designers, offering a glimpse into their own homes and the design philosophies that shape their private spaces. It explores how these professionals, who regularly craft beautiful environments for clients, approach decorating and living in their own residences. Each designer shares insights into why a particular room holds special significance for them, revealing a blend of aesthetic choices, functional considerations, and personal connections. Uns Hobbs, a London-based designer, identifies her kitchen as the heart of her home. She aimed to integrate a new extension seamlessly with her traditional British Victorian house, incorporating classic architectural elements like molding, paneling, and French doors. The kitchen is described as a space for entertaining, suggesting a focus on warmth, hospitality, and a design that encourages social gatherings. Her design choices reflect a desire for a cohesive and historically sympathetic extension that still functions as a modern family hub. Dabito, a New Orleans designer and author, finds sanctuary in his bedroom. He describes it as a multifaceted space for sleeping, streaming shows, and spending time with his cat. The article notes his use of a calming wall color, Quietude SW 6212, which contributes to a peaceful atmosphere. Dabito also incorporates natural materials for warmth and showcases his signature style by mixing new items, such as a table lamp from his Mitzi line, with vintage pieces like a bedside table and an antique Chinese rug. This approach underscores a personal and eclectic design vision that values comfort and individual expression. Keren and Thomas Richter, the duo behind White Arrow, a New York City design studio, chose their 1850s farmhouse kitchen as their favorite room. They opted for an inky teal from Fine Paints of Europe for the cabinetry, which contrasts with white ceramics, making them appear as silhouette art, and highlights their vintage Aga stove. The Richters emphasize the cozy feel created by the rich blue cabinetry and wide-plank antique pine floors. The integration of outdoor views further enhances the kitchen's appeal, connecting the interior space with the surrounding landscape and imbuing it with a strong sense of place. Marie Cloud, a designer from Charlotte, North Carolina, showcases her home office as a space that balances work and creativity. Rejecting the notion that an office must be purely functional, she designed hers to be energizing and inspiring. The room features a bold wallpaper from her collaboration with Spoonflower, which she feels reflects her personality, alongside an evolving inspiration board and designated areas for contemplation. Her design philosophy for this space emphasizes personal connection and dynamic inspiration, making it a desirable place to work. Finally, Isabel Ladd, a designer based in Lexington, Kentucky, identifies her family room as her favorite, viewing it as a testament to her design evolution. The room transformed from a formal dining room into a lived-in family space through the layering of prints, including wallpaper from another Spoonflower collaboration, textiles, and art, along with furniture changes. Ladd emphasizes the cozy and welcoming atmosphere, describing it as a space where her family feels enveloped and loved. The relocation of meals to a smaller, more casual adjacent room further reflects her commitment to designing spaces that truly suit her family's lifestyle and needs. These examples collectively illustrate how personal preferences, historical context, and functional requirements are harmoniously integrated by designers in their own homes. The article suggests that while professional designers create beauty for others, their personal spaces are deeply reflective of their individual journeys and values. The designers prioritize emotional comfort, personal expression, and functionality in their own homes, demonstrating that a favorite room is often one that supports daily life and personal well-being. This collection of rooms provides diverse inspirations for homeowners looking to personalize their spaces. It demonstrates how various elements, from color palettes and material choices to the integration of vintage items and custom designs, contribute to creating a distinctive and cherished environment. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #BedroomDesign #HomeOffice #FamilyRoom #DesignerHomes #DecoratingTips