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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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2025 Interior Design Trends: A stunning New York loft in SoHo, redesigned by Michael Ellison, blends industrial elements with warm, inviting accents. Featuring the elegant James dining chairs by Wood Tailors Club, this space embodies chic comfort and timeless craftsmanship.

Furniture that Leads 2025 Interior Design Trends

Wood Tailors Club is always at the forefront of design, introducing furniture, upholstery, lighting, and leisure pieces that define the 2025 interior design trends. By blending contemporary design with timeless craftsmanship, the brand empowers designers to transform residential projects into sophisticated and trend-setting spaces.

Top interior designers from around the world seek out the most exquisite woods and meticulously curated finishes to feature in their premier residential projects. These designers, renowned for their discerning taste and commitment to excellence, understand that the selection of materials plays a pivotal role in creating luxurious and timeless spaces. By incorporating high-quality woods and thoughtfully chosen finishes, they transform residential interiors into sophisticated showcases that reflect both beauty and functionality.

Top 3 Residential Projects Featuring Wood Tailors Club

Here is our selection of residential projects that feature some of the 2025 interior design trends. These projects showcase our dedication to offering furniture pieces that define current trends.

San Sebastián House by Iñigo Iriarte

Photos: Erlantz Biderbost

Iñigo Iriarte, the distinguished spanish interior designer, has beautifully transformed the interior of a residence located in San Sebastián, within a property built in 1926 in the vibrant Gros neighborhood. For this project, he selected the George Dining Chair from Wood Tailors Club, featuring walnut wood, rattan and leather. This choice reflects Iriarte’s commitment to blending functionality with aesthetic appeal, aligning seamlessly with the 2025 interior design trends.

New York’s Soho Loft by Michael Ellison Studio

In the heart of SoHo, a quintessential New York loft has been transformed into a warm and inviting space under the discerning eye of interior designer Michael Ellison. This project seamlessly blends industrial elements with cozy accents, creating an ambiance that is both chic and comfortable. The inclusion of the James dining chairs by Wood Tailors Club, crafted in walnut wood, adds a touch of timeless elegance to the dining area, enhancing the overall aesthetic with their refined craftsmanship. This design choice exemplifies the 2025 interior design trends, where the fusion of industrial aesthetics with classic, high-quality furnishings creates harmonious and inviting living spaces.

2025 Interior Design Trends: A stunning New York loft in SoHo, redesigned by Michael Ellison, blends industrial elements with warm, inviting accents. Featuring the elegant James dining chairs by Wood Tailors Club, this space embodies chic comfort and timeless craftsmanship.

Photos: Nicole Franzen
Design/styling: Studio Michael Ellison
Architect: DXA Architects

London House by Echlin London

Photos: Taran Wilkhu

​The design firm Echlin has transformed a classic London mews house, introducing elements such as a nearly six-metre-high green wall and a basement level featuring a walk-on skylight.In the dining area, the bespoke pale timber table is complemented by mid-century-inspired walnut George dining chairs from Wood Tailors Club.

Renowned interior designers meticulously select premium materials to elevate luxury residential projects, ensuring each space embodies sophistication and timelessness. By incorporating pieces from Wood Tailors Club, renowned for their dedication to detail and precision in handcrafted furniture, designers can achieve a harmonious blend of classic elegance and contemporary flair, aligning seamlessly with 2025 interior design trends. This thoughtful integration not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reflects the discerning tastes of their clientele, creating interiors that are both luxurious and enduring. ​

Featured Wood Tailors Pieces

Discover more about Wood Tailors Club‘s George and James dining chair pieces, selected to integrate into prestigious residential projects worldwide.

The James Dining Chair embodies 2025 interior design trends with its walnut wood structure, natural matte varnish finish, and linen-look upholstery, offering timeless elegance to any dining space.
James Dining Chair
The George Dining Chair exemplifies 2025 interior design trends with its black-stained ash wood frame, matte finish, linen-upholstered round seat, and rattan-accented backrest, blending classic craftsmanship with contemporary elegance.
George Dining Chair

And you? What’s your favorite 2025 interior design trend? Please share your thoughts with us!​

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

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​A Coastal Grandma Style Home living room featuring luxury sofas, solid wood center tables, and wooden side tables.

Coastal Grandma Style Home: Relaxed Elegance & Seaside Charm

The Coastal Grandma Style Home has surged in popularity, captivating many with its blend of relaxed elegance and timeless charm. This aesthetic evokes images of sunlit coastal retreats, emphasizing comfort, simplicity, and a connection to nature. But what exactly defines this style, and how can you incorporate it into your own home?​

What is a Coastal Grandma Style Home?

Originating from coastal regions, the Coastal Grandma style is characterized by light, airy spaces filled with natural textures and a soothing color palette. It’s about creating a home that feels like a serene beachside retreat, even if you’re miles from the ocean. This style combines relaxed comfort with refined elegance, making it both inviting and sophisticated.

Living room in a Coastal Grandma Style Home featuring neutral tones, light fabrics, a round rattan coffee table, and two wood armchairs.

Why Is It Going Viral?

The rise in popularity of the Coastal Grandma style home can be attributed to several factors:​

  • Nostalgic Appeal: It evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of leisurely summers and timeless elegance.​
  • Comfort and Relaxation: The emphasis on comfortable furnishings and natural elements creates a calming environment, appealing to those seeking tranquility in their living spaces.​
  • Versatility: The neutral color palette and classic design elements make it adaptable to various home sizes and personal tastes.​
Coastal Grandma Style Home bedroom featuring a minimalist design with a rattan headboard and matching rattan mirror."

Incorporating Coastal Grandma Style Room by Room

To embrace the Coastal Grandma Style Home aesthetic, consider the following suggestions for each room:

Living Room:

  • Color Palette: Opt for soft whites, beiges and gentle blues to create a serene atmosphere.​
  • Furniture: Choose slipcovered sofas and wicker or rattan chairs to add a touch of coastal charm.​
  • Decor: Incorporate light, airy fabrics like linen for curtains and throw pillows. Add elements like woven baskets and driftwood accents to enhance the beachside feel.​
Coastal Grandma Style Home living room featuring a harmonious blend of white and blue tones, a sturdy wooden center table, and robust armchairs and sofas

Kitchen:

  • Cabinetry: Select white or light-colored cabinets to maintain an open and airy feel.​
  • Countertops: Marble or light-colored wood countertops add elegance and a touch of luxury.​
  • Accents: Use woven placemats, ceramic jars and fresh flowers to bring in natural elements.​
Coastal Grandma Style Home kitchen featuring white cabinetry, marble countertops, and rattan bar chairs.

Bedroom:

  • Bedding: Choose white or soft-colored linens with subtle patterns.​
  • Furniture: Opt for wooden furniture with a distressed finish to add character.​
  • Lighting: Incorporate soft lighting with bedside lamps featuring linen shades.​
​A Coastal Grandma Style Home bedroom featuring rattan furniture, including a bed frame and seating, complemented by white linens with subtle patterns, wooden furniture with a distressed finish, and soft lighting from bedside lamps with linen shades.

Leisure Corner:

  • Seating: A comfortable armchair with a soft throw invites relaxation.​
  • Lighting: Ensure ample lighting with a stylish floor lamp or table lamp.​
  • Personal Touches: Incorporate personal items such as photos in simple frames, coastal-themed art or decorative objects that reflect your personality and the coastal aesthetic.

Porch:

  • Furniture: Incorporate wicker or wooden rocking chairs and a hammock for a laid-back vibe.​
  • Decor: Use outdoor rugs, throw pillows and lanterns to create a cozy, welcoming space.​
  • Ambiance: Add hanging plants and wind chimes to enhance the sensory experience.​
​A Coastal Grandma Style Home porch featuring upholstered armchairs, rattan benches, wooden center tables, and stools.

Embracing the Coastal Grandma Style Home is about creating a space that feels both timeless and inviting. By focusing on natural materials, soft colors and comfortable furnishings, you can transform your home into a serene retreat that exudes relaxed elegance. This style’s versatility and enduring appeal make it a wonderful choice for those looking to refresh their living spaces with a touch of coastal charm.

Wood Tailor Pieces That Fit the Coastal Grandma Style

Carefully handcrafted in black stained ashwood or in walnut wood and upholstered in linen, the Johnson Armchair provides a majestic look.
Jonhson Armchair
Rigorously handcrafted in walnut wood, the sumptuous and textured backrest cords of the Adam armchair effortlessly complement the natural beauty of an interior garden or living space, creating an opulent and organic atmosphere that evokes relaxation and indulgence
Adam Armchair

And you? What do you think about the Coastal Grandma Style Home? Stay tuned to our blog for exclusive insights, expert advice and timeless elegance!

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