Category: Interior Designers

A tribute to the masters of space transformation. Discover inspiring profiles, interviews, and standout projects from the world’s most renowned interior designers.

Jacques Grange is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair.

Most Iconic Interior Designers: Jacques Grange

Jacques Grange, born on June 27, 1944, in Saint-Amand-Montrond, France, is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair. He began his formal education at the Lycée Gerson and Lycée Janson-de-Sailly, followed by studies at the École Boulle and École Camondo in Paris, institutions celebrated for their rigorous training in decorative arts.

In 1965, Grange joined the esteemed design firm of Henri Samuel, where he honed his craft before establishing his own practice in 1970. Throughout his illustrious career, he has curated interiors for a host of high-profile clients, including Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Bergé, Princess Caroline of Monaco and Valentino. Notably, he decorated the Château Gabriel in Benerville-sur-Mer for Saint Laurent and Bergé, drawing inspiration from Proust’s “In Search of Lost Time.”

Grange’s design philosophy is characterized by an eclectic mix of periods and influences, seamlessly integrating antique and modern elements to create sophisticated and personalized spaces. His contributions to interior design have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur, reflecting his significant impact on the field.

Beyond his design work, Grange has influenced the industry through his mentorship under Henri Samuel and his ongoing commitment to excellence, inspiring both peers and emerging designers worldwide.

“Art doesn’t transform a space, but it magnifies it and gives it a rare flavor and style.”

Jacques Grange is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair.

Mastering the Art of Creating Timeless and Sophisticated Interiors

Jacques Grange is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair.
Terry de Gunzburg's Manhattan Apartment
Jacques Grange is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair.
Mark Hotel, New York

Jacques Grange has curated numerous residential projects that seamlessly blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair. Notably, he transformed Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé’s Château Gabriel in Benerville-sur-Mer, creating a luxurious and sophisticated retreat. In Manhattan, Grange designed Terry de Gunzburg’s residence, crafting a warm and refined environment that mirrors the owner’s lifestyle. Additionally, his own retreat, Casa Nina, comprises a series of cabanas nestled in Portugal’s Alentejo region, exemplifying his signature fusion of rustic charm and refined design. These projects highlight Grange’s adeptness at harmonizing classic and modern elements, resulting in unique and personalized interiors that cater to each client’s distinct vision.

In addition to his residential projects, Jacques Grange has significantly contributed to the design of prestigious commercial and hospitality establishments. Notably, he reimagined The Mark Hotel on Madison Avenue in New York City, blending modern luxury with timeless elegance. He also collaborated with Francis Ford Coppola to restore Palazzo Margherita in Bernalda, Italy, infusing the space with rich cultural elements and sophisticated design. ​

Top Projects by Jacques Grange

Paris Apartment

The apartment, a spacious and elegant residence with a traditional L-shaped layout, initially featured a classic floor plan. A long enfilade connected the main living spaces, preserving a sense of old-world charm and architectural continuity. Jacques Grange, however, brought his signature balance of heritage and modernity by completely reconfiguring the shorter wing of the “L.” This is where he introduced a sleek, contemporary kitchen and a modern bathroom – two spaces that now contrast beautifully with the more classical elements of the home.

Grange approached the project with a deeply personal touch, designing it for a friend and shaping every detail through close dialogue. “We spoke about everything, and where to put each piece,” he notes. The result is a warm, layered interior that blends vintage character with modern comfort, creating a space that feels both timeless and alive. As Grange reflects on the experience, he emphasizes the mutual exchange that defined the process: “We taught each other things. I am not interested in just sitting quietly with my own old thoughts. I learned too.”

Jacques Grange is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair.
Photo: Nicolas Mathéus

Style Match

Malabar’s designers interpreted the famous painting of Dalí, “Metamorphosis of Narciso”, and designed the surrealistic-inspired Gala armchair. Supported by four marble spheres handworked by marble specialized markers, its chubby seating is upholstered in a trendy bouclé textile. The Gala Armchair was designed to be the revolution of your art-filled living room.
Gala Armchair by Malabar

Gala Armchair

Mesmerizing Paris Mansion

Jacques Grange transformed a 19th-century hôtel particulier in Paris, blending historical grandeur with contemporary elegance. The mansion, built between 1870 and 1872, boasts expansive windows overlooking the Seine River and the Musée du Louvre. Grange’s design harmoniously combines opulent fabrics, custom-designed carpets, and innovative room transformations, resulting in a luxurious and art-filled residence.

One of the most striking features is the minimalist swimming pool in the basement, illuminated by atmospheric lighting designed by artist James Turrell. This addition provides a serene and otherworldly complement to the mansion’s historic architecture.

Grange’s meticulous restoration and design work exemplify a masterful blend of past and present, creating a mesmerizing Parisian mansion that honors its rich history while embracing modern luxury.

Jacques Grange is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair.
Photo: François Halard. Courtesy: Flammarion

Style Match

Dressed up in a deluxe bouclé fabric, the Romy sofa’s exquisite design creates an inviting and cozy seating arrangement that encourages conversation and interaction.
Romy Sofa by Ottiu

Romy Sofa

 Christian Louboutin’s Penthouse

Jacques Grange designed his longtime friend Christian Louboutin’s Paris penthouse as a testament to the fusion of luxury and personal expression. Situated with views of the Eiffel Tower, the apartment showcases Louboutin’s penchant for vibrant colors and eclectic art. Grange’s design features ample spaces for entertaining, with a loft-like living area adorned with vintage furniture and custom-designed elements inspired by Louboutin’s observations, such as skylights reminiscent of metal cat flaps he noticed across the street. The bedroom, intentionally designed without a guest room, reflects Louboutin’s candidness about his lifestyle, with over 50 pairs of shoes casually arranged on the floor.

acques Grange is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair.
Photo: Cyrill Matter

Style Match

Sumptuously tailored, the deluxe Nancy twin seat by Ottiu is upholstered in smooth cotton velvet. Designed to adorn the opulent living spaces of the elite, the Nancy Twin Seat exudes an aura of grandeur and extravagance.
Nancy Twin Seat by Ottiu

Nancy Sofa

Pierre Passebon’s Apartment

Jacques Grange collaborated with his partner Pierre Passebon to transform Passebon’s 1820s Directoire apartment in Paris into a harmonious blend of history and modernity. Grange reimagined the space by removing interior walls to create an open, fluid layout that showcases a curated mix of modernist furniture, antique pieces and contemporary art. Notable features include a custom-designed quilted sofa by Grange, a striking 16th-century Italian marble fireplace, and vibrant artworks like Gino Marotta’s Amore Mio. The apartment reflects Grange’s signature style—merging diverse eras and cultures into a cohesive, elegant environment that balances eclecticism with refined taste.

Jacques Grange is a distinguished French interior designer renowned for his ability to blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair.
Photo: François Halard

Style Match

Malabar's La Danse dining table base features multi-colored marquetry, different lacquered surfaces, and brushed stainless steel metal. The top is made in black stained ashwood featuring a retro illuminated alabaster in the center.
La Danse Dining Table by Malabar

La Danse Dining Table

“Grange’s decor cannot be explained; it is the Grange style.”

Pierre Passebon

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to interior design, Grange was honored with the title of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres and Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur. Furthermore, in 2014, he received the Trophée des Arts from the French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF) during their annual gala at New York City’s Plaza Hotel.

And you? What do you think of Jacques Grange’s style? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Stay tuned to our Journal for exclusive insights, expert advice, and timeless elegance.

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Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.

Most Iconic Interior Designers: Elsie de Wolfe

“I’m going to make everything around me beautiful – that will be my life”

 

Elsie de Wolfe, also known as Lady Mendl, was born in 1865 in New York and led a glamorous life as a prominent figure in European café society. Often referred to as the “grand dame of modern decorating,” she is widely credited with pioneering the profession of interior design and is considered by many to be the first modern professional decorator.

Her career began in the theater under the guidance of theatrical agent Elisabeth Marbury. Though her acting received modest attention, it was her impeccable fashion sense that captured the public’s eye. Women admired her carefully curated outfits and began to emulate her style, establishing de Wolfe as a fashion icon of her era. In fact, she was named the “best-dressed woman in the world” in 1935.

But who exactly was Elsie de Wolfe, and what lasting impact did she leave on the world of interior design?

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.

Elsie de Wolfe: The Woman Who Invented Interior Design

Known and revered as America’s first decorator, Elsie de Wolfe changed the course of interior design forever. Her influence is still felt today — in every bright, airy and feminine space that rejects heavy drapes and dark furniture. Even decades after her passing, her legacy lives on through the casual elegance she championed.

Elsie once described herself as a “rebel in an ugly world”. At a time when late Victorian interiors were weighed down with clutter and gloom, she brought in simplicity, comfort and light. Mirrors, chinoiserie, soft color palettes and whimsical flourishes became her signature. She believed in “plenty of optimism and white paint, comfortable chairs with lights beside them, open fires on the hearth and flowers wherever they belong, mirrors and sunshine in all rooms”.

In 1913, she published The House in Good Taste, a guide to decorating that became an instant hit and remains a design classic today. De Wolfe was the one who proved that pale color schemes, painted woodwork and floral chintz could be not only stylish but timeless. She introduced the use of painted trellis as wallcovering, animal-print carpets and mirrored walls — elements still used by designers around the world.

Interior of Elsie De Wolfe' music pavilion looking out on to the pool , The Villa Trianon, painted by William Bruce Ellis Ranken
The Villa Trianon painted by William Bruce Ellis Ranken

Elsie De Wolfe’s Career

In 1887, de Wolfe formed a partnership with Elisabeth “Bessie” Marbury, a prominent literary agent. Together, they transformed their shared residence on Irving Place by replacing the dark, heavy furnishings typical of the Victorian era with lighter, more inviting decor. This successful endeavor inspired de Wolfe to pursue interior decoration professionally. In 1905, she secured her first major commission to design the interiors of the Colony Club, New York’s inaugural social club for women, with the support of architect Stanford White and her influential social circle.

The triumph of the Colony Club project catapulted de Wolfe into high demand among affluent clients, including notable figures such as industrialist Henry Clay Frick. By 1913, her burgeoning reputation enabled her to establish a substantial studio on Fifth Avenue. De Wolfe’s design philosophy emphasized simplicity and suitability, advocating for interiors that were both elegant and comfortable. She favored light fabrics, pale color schemes, and practical furnishings, often incorporating mirrors to enhance natural light and create a sense of spaciousness. Her work not only revolutionized interior aesthetics but also laid the foundation for interior decoration as a recognized profession.

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Tea House, New York

Hollywood’s Favourite Designer

Fleeing Paris ahead of World War II, Elsie de Wolfe settled in Los Angeles, where her refined and airy aesthetic captivated the film industry’s elite. Her clientele included notable figures such as Countess Dorothy di Frasso, for whom she designed a Beverly Hills villa. De Wolfe’s influence extended beyond private residences; she also served as a set decoration adviser for films like The Razor’s Edge,further cementing her status as Hollywood’s goto designer during its golden age.

Notable clients: The Colony Club, Hope Hampton, Anne Vanderbilt, the Duchess of Windsor, Condé Nast.

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Marlene Dietrich Home, Beverly Hills

Elsie de Wolfe’s Most Famous Designs

Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Colony Club, New Work
Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Villa Trianon, Versailles
Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Adelaide Frick's Boudoir, New York City’s Upper East Side
Elsie de Wolfe, often hailed as one of the most iconic interior designers, revolutionized interior design in the early 20th century. Renowned for her innovative approach, she transformed spaces with light, airy designs.
Marlene Dietrich Home, Beverly Hills

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Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail with high-quality materials by Portuguese Artisans, the Dudley sofa exudes a sense of sophistication that can enhance any living space. Structured in smoked walnut wood, it’s a perfect addition to any home, offering both comfort and a touch of refined style.
Dudley Sofa by Wood Tailors Club
Crockford Sofa: Structured in walnut wood upholstered in linen, with carefully handcrafted rattan details.
Crockford Sofa by Wood Tailors Club
Carefully handcrafted in black stained ashwood or in walnut wood and upholstered in linen, the Johnson Armchair provides a majestic look.
Johnson Armchair by Wood Tailors Club
The timeless George armchair is handcrafted in black stained ashwood with rigorously expertise by Portuguese artisans, and its round seat is upholstered in bouclé and velvet. Along with carefully selected wood, George is enriched with the rattan on its back, giving it a classy touch.
George Armchair by Wood Tailors Club

And you? What do you think of Elsie de Wolfe’s design style? Do you like it?

Stay tuned to our Journal for exclusive insights, expert advice and timeless elegance.

 

You might also like: Rustic Canyon Residence: A Tribute to Richard Neutra Design

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AD100 - by - wtc

Meet Our Favorite Designers From AD100 2021

The AD100 is the Architectural Digest’s list that every year launches the interior designers and architecture professionals who stood out in the market throughout the world during the year.   

So, on this article, we will introduce our favorite designers and architectures that are featuring at AD100 2021:

Beata Heuman

For the first time on AD100 Beata Heuman is a london designer that combines Scandinavian design features with a family aesthetic. What results in very refreshing interiors. After working closely for years with the giant designer Nicky Haslam, Heuman opened her own design studio.

Ad100 - Beata Heuman - wtc
Ad100 - Beata Heuman - wtc

Her studio takes a totally immersive approach. Her designs have a playful nature, however, her attention to detail is fantastic. And the future promises to be even brighter for Heuman and her studio. As next year, she will launch a book with her tailored interiors.

Clements Design

Kathleen and Tommy Clements are the creators of Clements Design that features this year on AD100. It’s powerful interior design company that focuses on designing layered and highly cured residential projects. Their projects go from Neo-Paladian villas to modern mansions.

Ad100 - Clements Design
Ad100 - Clements Design

The mother and son team worked with some of Hollywood’s best stars, including Jennifer Lawrence, Bruno Mars and Adam Levine. Their projects come for the simple, which reinforces the concept ‘‘ don’t think too much ’’.

Kéré Architecture

Francis Kéré first gained prominence when his architecture office was distinguished with the esteemed Aga Khan Architecture Award in 2004.  This award was for his first project, a school in Burkina Faso wich he was able to design in collaboration with Gando native residents.

Ad100 - Kere Architecture
Ad100 - Kere Architecture

Other of his projects are the doctors’ homes in Burkina Faso, the Obama Legacy Campus in Kegalo and the Beijing Pavilion. Besides this his next projects will be a secondary school in his hometown of Gando, as well as a memorial to former President Thomas Sankara in Ouagadougou.

WHY Architecture

WHY Architecture is a multidisciplinary company best known for its innovative character. The company works through holistic and sustainable projects, giving a new concept to contemporary culture. Having Kulapat Yantrasast as the creative director. 

Ad100 - Why Architecture
Ad100 - Why Architecture

In 2020 Why Architecture developed renovation projects for architecture offices, as expanded its original design from the David Kordansky Gallery in Los Angeles. In addition to redesigning the Museum of Asian Art in San Francisco and renovating a wing of the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

India Mahdavi

India Mahdavi is an iranian Designer that grew up in the United States and built her career in France. Mahdavi stands out due all the diversity and experience that she brings to her works. With a great capacity to mix different styles and unusual shapes.

She projects modern with a classic twist and sober materials with trendy colors. Along with mixing such different materials, textures and objects, she manages to combine everything harmoniously.

Ad100 - India Mahdavi
Ad100 - India Mahdavi

Thus her works as London Sketch, L’Apogee Courchevel and a myriad of hyper-colored macaroon Laduree restaurants have withstood the tests of time and Instagram with equal self-confidence. As a result Mahdavi has branched out to design almost every product category imaginable.

Going from cloud-shaped cups for Nespresso to the colorful print clothing line for French mega retailer Monoprix.

Kelly Wearstler

Kelly Wearstler, one of the most renowned designers in Los Angeles and featuring on AD100 hall of fame, she’s responsible for refining the “boutique hotel” appearance is also a former participant of Bravo TV where she obtained mega-celebrities like Cameron Diaz and Gwen Stefani as her clients.

Her diverse work ranges from modernism to Memphis in her interior projects and furniture, fabrics and lighting lines.

Ad100- kelly wearstler
Ad100- kelly wearstler

Ashe Leandro

This New York company makes its mark in the design world with personalized and relaxed interiors. By the creative duo A + L founded exactly 10 years ago. For instance, a decade later, the couple continue to drive projects with a unique style and a special focus on children’s bedrooms. As a result this year they are on the AD100 2021 list.

Ad100- Ashe Leandro
Ad100 - Ashe Leandro

FINALLY, WHAT’S YOUR OPINION ABOUT THE AD100 2021? ARE YOU SO IN LOVE AS WE ARE? IF YOU WANT TO KEEP BEING INSPIRED, STAY TUNED TO OUR BLOG SO YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE TRADE SHOW AND DÉCOR IDEAS.

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