From Me to You – original copy

Design is amazing! I’m just gonna say it. My firm has been around for 14 years, but I’ve been designing my entire life. I designed my dream house at age 8. It was very boxy. And very big.

The bottom line for any designer – We seek beauty. Beauty inspires me. Whether it is a beautiful view, a beautiful sofa, beautiful shoes or a beautiful meal, it drives me to be a better designer.

Fashion- I’m in awe of people who can put things together and look good in something I could never pull off. I was recently having lunch at Bergdorfs and Iris Apfel was sitting across the room. A-MAZ-ING. Seriously. I’m the first to admit I can dress up your living room much better than I dress up myself, but that doesn’t stop me from trying. Current favorite for men is Bespoken Clothiers in New York – very fresh and easy.

A really well designed hotel (Crosby Hotel New York, Le Meurice Paris, La Mamounia Marrakech) makes me weak in the knees. I’ve never understood those people who say, “I don’t care where I stay – I’m never going to be in the room.” A great hotel fills me with gratitude, and gratitude fuels me for another adventurous day of exploration.

Food – don’t get me started. I love food. I’m surprised I don’t weigh 300 pounds (see photo above). I am not one to photograph my plate and share it on FB, but I will take in the beauty that sits in front of me before I dive in with my fork. From the simplest prosciutto with shaved cauliflower, pine nuts and balsamic at Bar Jules to the most glamorous foie gras mousse (not anymore in California) at Per Se.

You may not realize it, but all of these things drive design in all of us. Being exposed to beauty in our everyday lives – especially our homes – brings peace and comfort to everyone.

The world would be a better place if we all loved our homes!