Can Changing Your Environment Make You HAPPY? Celebrity Interior Designer Kelly Wearstler

Added: Oct 2, 2023

Design plays a significant role in shaping our mood and how we feel throughout the day. Wearstler believes that people want to see and experience something new, something that is unfamiliar yet inspiring. She encourages people to explore museums, flea markets, and vintage stores to find unique and soulful pieces that reflect their personal style and make them happy. She believes that surrounding ourselves with things that are familiar and bring us joy is essential for creating a home that reflects who we are.

For those who may not have access to a designer, Wearstler suggests starting with what they gravitate towards. She advises visiting museums, flea markets, and vintage stores to discover their passions and interests. Whether it's art, color, or a specific collection, starting with something they love can be a great way to begin the process of curating their own space.

Wearstler emphasizes the importance of being open-minded and curious when it comes to design. She believes that we should seek out new experiences and discover things that excite us. She finds inspiration in emerging and contemporary artists, as well as in technology and popular culture. She believes that being open to new ideas and constantly striving to be a better designer is crucial.

When it comes to designing for clients, Wearstler understands the importance of effective communication. She believes that confidence is key when presenting designs to clients. Visuals are essential in conveying the design concept and helping clients understand the direction. She also emphasizes the importance of listening to clients and understanding their intentions and desires for their space.

Wearstler acknowledges that everyone has their own unique style and taste. She believes that there is no such thing as "bad taste" and encourages people to trust their instincts and explore their personal preferences. She advises people to be patient and take their time when curating their space, as it is a process that should be enjoyed and cherished.

Wearstler shares her own experiences and challenges in the design industry. She recalls starting out on her own, working on projects by herself and learning the ropes of contracts, budgets, and presentations. She emphasizes the importance of asking questions and seeking knowledge along the way. She believes that passion and drive are essential in pursuing a creative career.

She also shares some of her own mistakes and risks she has taken in her career. One of her mistakes was going overboard with colors in a project, which she later had to fix by repainting the entire house herself. She believes that making mistakes is part of the creative process and that it is important to learn from them.

One of the risks she took was accepting a project from Bergdorf Goodman to design their iconic restaurant. This opportunity led to her opening a shop within the store, which eventually led to designing products and working with various brands. She believes that being open to opportunities and challenges is crucial in growing as a designer.

Wearstler also discusses the importance of travel and experiencing different cities and cultures. She finds inspiration in visiting galleries, artist studios, and creative homes. She believes that having an open heart and being curious are essential in discovering new ideas and designs.

Wearstler shares her love for European cities, such as Paris and Amsterdam, and the unique experiences and inspiration she finds in places like the Paris Flea Market and the emerging artist scene in Belgium. She believes that travel allows us to appreciate the special materials, designs, and craftsmanship that different countries have to offer.

When it comes to creating a space that feels good, Wearstler believes that it doesn't necessarily require a large budget. She suggests painting a wall in a unique color, incorporating one statement piece of furniture, and focusing on lighting to create a minimal yet impactful design. She also emphasizes the importance of letting the space evolve over time and curating it with meaningful pieces.

The conversation then shifts to the topic of intuition and how it plays a role in Wearstler's design process. She explains that she often picks items that intuitively call out to her and then asks the story behind them. This intuitive approach allows her to create spaces that are unique and reflective of her clients' personalities.

The discussion then delves into the concept of replication versus creativity. Wearstler believes that creativity comes from within and is a reflection of an artist or designer's unique voice. Replication, on the other hand, involves looking outward for inspiration and incorporating existing ideas into one's work. She emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between the two and allowing creativity to shine through.

The conversation then turns to the topic of burnout and how Wearstler manages her busy career while also being present for her family. She acknowledges that it can be a struggle at times but emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and setting boundaries. She also highlights the value of saying no and being selective about the projects she takes on in order to avoid burnout.

When it comes to pricing oneself as a creative or designer, Wearstler advises considering factors such as the nature of the project, the level of involvement, and the value one brings to the table. She believes that open communication with clients is key in finding a pricing structure that works for both parties.

Wearstler also discusses the role of health and fitness in her life and how it impacts her creativity. She describes running as her form of active meditation and a way to clear her mind and generate ideas. She emphasizes the importance of surprising the body with different forms of exercise and finding a balance between physical and mental well-being.

The conversation then touches on the topic of design and functionality. Wearstler believes that design should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also make our lives easier. She discusses the use of AI in her studio and how it has helped generate ideas and streamline the design process. She believes that AI will continue to benefit the industry by increasing efficiency and freeing up time for more creative pursuits.

The podcast concludes with Wearstler sharing her design philosophy, which is to understand one's own style and seek inspiration from museums and galleries. She believes that by exposing oneself to different art forms and design styles, one can discover new ideas and create interiors that truly represent who they are.