Design Insights from Kelly Wearstler: A Study of Style and Substance
Kelly Wearstler, one of the most influential voices in modern interior design, has long been known for her ability to blend diverse influences into bold, eclectic interiors. Drawing inspiration from her books and interviews, Wearstler’s design philosophy is a masterclass in pushing boundaries while staying rooted in timeless elegance. Let’s explore her key approaches to design, as revealed through her body of work:
1. Bold Maximalism with Thoughtful Balance
Wearstler is a pioneer of the "maximalist" trend, which encourages the use of vibrant color palettes, rich textures, and daring combinations. In her book "Evocative Style", Wearstler describes her approach to blending multiple elements: from metals and marbles to velvets and woods, she layers materials to create depth and interest. However, despite this richness, her spaces never feel chaotic. Instead, they strike a careful balance between bold statements and subtle sophistication, showing that maximalism doesn't mean sacrificing harmony. In an interview with Architectural Digest, Wearstler shared her belief in the power of contrast: “I love tension in design. It creates drama and energy in a room.” Her spaces often feature a play between vintage and contemporary, hard and soft, sleek and textured, ensuring that each room feels dynamic but not overwhelming.
2. The Power of Color and Texture
Known for her fearless use of color, Wearstler’s interiors are often infused with vibrant hues that inject personality into every space. In "Hue", one of her earlier books, she delves deep into her philosophy of color and how it can define a room. From moody jewel tones to bright, sunny yellows, she uses color as a means of storytelling. For Wearstler, color isn’t just about making a room look beautiful—it’s about creating a specific emotion and energy. Textures also play a significant role in her designs. As she explains in "Rhapsody", texture is what gives a room its depth and complexity. Whether it’s a woven rug, a hand-carved stone table, or a velvet chair, these tactile elements engage the senses and make the space more inviting. In her interviews, she frequently emphasizes the importance of “touch and feel” in design, urging homeowners to experiment with different textures for a more immersive experience.
3. Art as a Design Element
Kelly Wearstler’s spaces often feel like art galleries, with unique pieces strategically placed to complement the overall design. She advocates for the use of art not just as decoration but as a central feature of a room. In many interviews, Wearstler speaks about her passion for collecting and curating art, often highlighting how art can elevate even the simplest of spaces. “Art is essential. It creates soul,” she noted in an interview with The New York Times. Wearstler often mixes sculptural furniture with large-scale paintings or unexpected art pieces, encouraging her clients and followers to view art as an integral part of the design process. Her installations often reflect her belief that art should provoke thought and evoke emotion, providing a personal touch to any interior.
4. Bridging the Gap Between Architecture and Interior Design
In both her books and interviews, Wearstler frequently discusses her holistic approach to design. For her, there’s no clear boundary between architecture and interiors—they should work in tandem to create a cohesive experience. Her spaces often have a strong architectural presence, with sculptural elements and architectural details playing a major role. In her projects, the lines between furniture and architecture blur, with pieces often custom-designed to fit the unique dimensions or angles of a space. “Design should feel like an extension of the architecture,” Wearstler has said, showcasing how she crafts spaces that flow seamlessly from structure to décor. Her work proves that thoughtful design can enhance both function and aesthetic beauty.
5. Personalization and Storytelling Through Design
One of Kelly Wearstler’s most distinctive traits as a designer is her ability to create deeply personal, storytelling interiors. She often encourages clients to embrace their individual styles, curating items and pieces that reflect their personal history, travels, and tastes. In an interview with Elle Decor, she emphasized, “Your home should tell your story. It’s not about trends—it’s about what resonates with you.” This idea of storytelling is evident in the way she designs homes to be highly unique to each client, blending personalized details, global influences, and a curated selection of pieces that express individuality. Whether it’s a cherished antique or a piece collected during travel, Wearstler’s designs often invite conversation and evoke a sense of discovery.
6. The Future of Design: Adaptive and Eclectic
Looking ahead, Wearstler believes that design will continue to evolve toward more adaptive and eclectic approaches. In a recent interview, she predicted that people would increasingly seek comfort and flexibility in their homes, driven by the ongoing shift toward remote work and multifunctional spaces. “Homes need to feel lived-in, personal, and adaptable,” she stated, forecasting a future where interiors continue to reflect the changing needs of those living in them. At the same time, she sees eclecticism as more than just a trend—it’s a reflection of the way people want to experience the world through design. “Our surroundings should inspire us, push us to think differently,” Wearstler remarked in Design Milk. As such, her future projects are likely to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in residential and commercial spaces. --- Kelly Wearstler’s design philosophy is a celebration of bold choices, personalization, and the thoughtful fusion of art and architecture. Whether through her books or interviews, her guiding principle remains clear: great design is about creating environments that are rich with character, unique to each client, and filled with sensory and emotional resonance.