Los Angeles and Paris based interior designer Timothy Corrigan shares his international design perspective with us as a Design Council member. His reach extends to interior design, restoration, landscape design and art and antique acquisition.
What are the main differences of working in Paris than in LA?
I find that there are far more resource options when working in Paris because so many of the suppliers that are shown in LA have their main operations in Paris, so there tends to be a better selection of options from any one supplier. The biggest drawback to working in Paris is that the concept of good service is a particularly American notion, so while I love the resources available in Paris, the day-to-day workings of a design studio are so much easier in the United States.
What are your favorite materials?
We recently found a great source for rock crystal in India—I love the way it refracts light when used as a table-top. I love mixing different kinds of materials—rough-hewn wood with shimmery smooth silk satin; richly French polished furniture with simple slubby linen. It’s often the mix of contrasting materials that help give a space a rich, layered look.
What does every home need for great entertaining?
Comfortable places to sit are a must; music and good lighting are essential to set the tone…but overall, the most important thing is making your guests feel that you are thrilled to see them…and a little tequila never hurts!
Where does your inspiration come from these days?
I always look to historical sources for design ideas---because there truly are very few new ideas. All design springs from some historical antecedent. For example people often think that bold use of color is a very recent thing--- while in reality, strong contrasting colors were used throughout history-both Regency England and ancient Egypt were both totally technicolor!
What does glamour mean to you?
It is often difficult to do glamour well; there is often a very fine line between something being “glamorous” and vulgar...one sequin too many and it becomes tacky! We tend to steer away from overt glamour and veer towards classic elegance. The concept of what is glamorous changes a lot, while elegance is timeless.
No comments:
Post a Comment