Iconic Interior Designers Series.
The Disruptors.
Real geniuses come rarely, but when they do…they change the world, be it literally the world we live in or, as in this case, the world of interior design and decor.
This group of visionary interior designers and decorators have shaped how we perceive and interact with our homes, offices, and public spaces.
1. Elsie de Wolfe (1859-1950) – The First Lady of Interior Design
Often credited as the first professional interior designer, Elsie de Wolfe changed the design landscape in the early 20th century. Known for her glamorous yet practical approach, she moved away from the heavy, dark Victorian style and introduced light, airy rooms with softer colours. Her designs favoured comfort and elegance, revolutionising American interior design. One of her most famous projects was redesigning the Colony Club in New York City, which symbolised modern femininity and style.
2. Jean-Michel Frank (1895-1941) – The Master of Minimalism
Jean-Michel Frank was an influential French designer known for his minimalist yet luxurious approach. With an affinity for understated elegance, Frank used luxurious materials like shagreen, lacquered wood, and bronze to create his signature style. His work was often ahead of its time, focusing on simplicity while maintaining an air of refinement. Frank’s designs were highly influential in the Art Deco movement, and his furniture is still highly sought after by collectors.
3. Billy Baldwin (1903-1983) – The Dean of American Interior Design
Billy Baldwin’s designs are synonymous with sophistication, understated luxury, and timeless style. His approach to interior design blended classic and contemporary elements, creating spaces that were both stylish and comfortable. Baldwin’s work was centered on bright, airy rooms with a mix of traditional and modern pieces. He became the go-to designer for the elite, creating stunning interiors for socialites, celebrities, and even Jacqueline Kennedy. Baldwin’s legacy continues to influence contemporary designers.
4. Dorothy Draper (1889-1969) – The Queen of Colour
Dorothy Draper pioneered bold, colourful, and dramatic interior design. She defied the prevailing trends of her time by embracing vibrant hues and extravagant patterns. Draper’s signature style combined opulent fabrics, oversized furniture, and abundant colour, often using contrasting shades like black and white. Her work on the Greenbrier Hotel in West Virginia, which she transformed into a luxurious destination, is one of her most famous achievements and continues to inspire designers today.
5. Kelly Wearstler – The Bold Visionary
Known for her bold, maximalist designs, Kelly Wearstler has become one of the most influential interior designers of the 21st century. With a signature blend of unexpected colours, textures, and materials, Wearstler has created iconic interiors for commercial and residential spaces. Her work pushes boundaries and combines glamour with art, bringing a sense of drama and excitement to any room. From luxury hotels to high-end residences, Wearstler's unique aesthetic is instantly recognizable and continues to shape modern design trends.
6. Renzo Mongiardino (1929-1998) – The Renaissance Man of Interior Design
Renzo Mongiardino’s approach to design was rooted in his deep understanding of classical architecture and the decorative arts. With a profound knowledge of history, Mongiardino created timeless interiors, often inspired by Italian palaces, classical works of art, and the grandeur of the past. His work was characterised by a refined mix of antique furniture, rich textiles, and sophisticated colour palettes. One of his most iconic projects was the redesign of the Villa d’Este in Lake Como, a stunning blend of opulence and classical charm.
7. David Hicks (1929-1998) – The Rebel with a Colorful Cause
British designer David Hicks was known for his bold and daring approach to color. A pioneer of the mid-century modern aesthetic, Hicks was unafraid to mix bright, bold hues with traditional patterns and furniture. His work celebrates colour, geometry, and a mix of the old and new. Hicks revolutionized the way people viewed interior design by breaking rules and introducing a more eclectic and personalized approach to spaces. His work remains highly regarded for its energy and vibrancy.
8. Nate Berkus – The Accessible Aesthetic
Nate Berkus has become a household name for his approachable yet sophisticated design style. Known for his ability to create beautiful, functional spaces with a warm, inviting atmosphere, Berkus has made interior design accessible to a wider audience. He gained fame with appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show and has since built a successful brand that includes a furniture line, home goods collection, and television shows. His interiors often combine personal touches, timeless elegance, and a touch of modernity, making his work relatable to many.
9. Pierre Yovanovitch – The Artisanal Master
Pierre Yovanovitch is a French interior designer known for his highly curated approach to design. His work combines clean lines and minimalist principles with a deep respect for craftsmanship and artistry. Yovanovitch's interiors often feature custom-designed pieces, bringing a sense of uniqueness and personality to each space. His work is distinguished by its warmth, elegance, and understated luxury. Yovanovitch is particularly renowned for his ability to blend contemporary design with the beauty of historical influences.
10. Studio KO (Klein and Oliva) – The Masters of Contemporary Luxury
Studio KO, founded by architects and designers Olivier Klein and Karl Oliva, is a powerhouse in the world of luxury interior design. Known for their collaborations with some of the most prestigious names in art and design, Studio KO brings a modern sensibility to classic forms. Their minimalist yet luxurious approach is evident in projects ranging from private homes to high-end hotels. They create elegant, contemporary, and timeless spaces, often incorporating unique materials and striking architectural features that push the boundaries of traditional design.
These ten visionary designers and decorators have forever shaped the world of interior design, each bringing their unique perspective to creating beautiful spaces. Whether through timeless elegance, bold experimentation, or an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, these designers have set the standard for what it means to truly transform a space.
What are your favourite iconic designers? Leave a comment, below!
My favorite designers are the craftsman from years past who took their time creating beautiful items that would be used time and time again throughout a person's life. I look for antiques that have served a purpose and now deserve to be simply observed and admired. My partner thinks it's funny that I find my treasures in the back of stores, out of the way, because most people simply pass them by. I love one of a kind, long forgotten, pieces that were obviously once loved and used often.