DESIGN 2017
HARBINGERS OF FASHION AND DESIGN , AFFLUENT CONSUMERS HAVE BECOME VIRTUAL ARBITERS OF WHAT ’ S IN AND WHAT ’ S OUT .
“ My customers are way more educated than they ever have been . I think they ’ re more aware of design , more aware of what ’ s out there ,” says New York City ’ s Shawn D Henderson , who is one of the Architectural Digest ’ s 100 top designers .
“ The high end usually wants to be on to the next big thing . It goes back to wanting something different and not feeling like they are walking into every friend ’ s house ,” observes Beverly Hills designer Christopher Grubb , who frequently speaks at design events .
Today , white and gray continue to reign as preferred neutrals . Mid-century Modern is emerging as a touchstone for architecture , and contemporary ’ s sway extends beyond the coasts and the Sunbelt . Neutral palettes unify open concept plans , but highend dwellings that appear as simple streamlined white boxes don ’ t tell today ’ s design story .
Comments from notable designers as well as insights gleaned at Design and Construction Week reveal a narrative , especially for luxury homes , more
BY CAMILLA MCLAUGHLIN
nuanced than simply white , gray and contemporary .
“ The most sophisticated interiors today are contemporary , have a lightness about them , and feature intriguing artisanal furniture , lighting and accessories . Even more traditional rooms are devoid of pattern and rely more on texture and color to keep them current and today . No one wants to live in grandma ’ s dusty attic ,” shares Jamie Drake , principal of Drake / Anderson in New York City .
“ To me it ’ s getting those layers in there and those pieces that speak to each other and play off of each other . To me that ’ s what it ’ s all about ,” explains Henderson .
Color is also part of schemes , but used judiciously with restraint . “ Colors may still be vibrant , yet used with thoughtful place and discipline for maximum effect . We utilize strikingly hued pillows , chairs , accessories and occasional pieces to accent more neutral schemes . Colors that are especially trending are aquas , citrines , peridot greens , purples , plums and coral pinks ,” says Drake .
No facet of Design and Construction Week gives better insights into what ’ s ahead , particularly for
COURTESY JAMIE DRAKE , DRAKE / ANDERSON
40 | HOMES & ESTATES