Our Favorite, Inspirational Interior Designer

Famous interior designers like Joanna Gaines, Nate Berkus, Kelly Wearstler, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Bobby Berk, Peter Marino, Justina Blakeney, Emily Henderson and Jonathan Adler are known for their celebrity clients, best-selling product lines, and popular TV shows. They not only inspire do-it-yourselfers but fellow professional Interior Designers as well.
But not all inspirational designers are famous. The Talie Jane Interiors team handpicked some of our favorite interior designers, some of whom you may not know, who inspire us and have helped to shape our design careers. Join us as we explore their unique styles, groundbreaking projects and their influence on how we experience our environments.

Talie’s Pick: Elsie de Wolfe

“I relate to Elsie de Wolfe. She became an interior designer later in her life, just like I did. And she, too, was emotionally affected by poor design. [She threw herself on the floor crying and screaming about the ugliness of William Morris wallpaper, and I cried real tears when pulling into an IKEA parking lot!] In other words, we both knew the moment we found our calling, deciding to make everything around us beautiful.”

Elsie de Wolfe, known as Lady Mendl, was a pioneering force in interior design and is often celebrated as the “grand dame of modern decorating.”

Born in 1865 in New York, she grew up discontent with her Victorian surroundings, famously expressing her disdain for William Morris’s designs. This early frustration fueled her mission to create beauty, leading her to a successful career as an actress and fashion icon—earning the title of “best-dressed woman in the world” in 1935.

Transitioning to interior design, de Wolfe transformed her shared home with Elisabeth Marbury into a light, airy space that defied Victorian norms. Her innovative use of color, like pale greys and ivories and unexpected elements, such as leopard-print upholstery, made waves in high society.

She took on prominent projects like The Colony Club and Villa Trianon, establishing herself as the first modern professional decorator and introducing fresh concepts like painted trellis wall coverings. De Wolfe’s signature style combined whimsy with comfort, emphasizing mirrors, chinoiserie, and floral patterns, all while advocating simplicity and sustainability.

Her 1913 guide, *The House in Good Taste*, became essential reading for design enthusiasts, showcasing her belief in optimism and beauty in everyday life. A true independent spirit, she continued to create beauty, embodying the notion that it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions.

Alise’s Pick: Abby Heatherington.

“I picked Abby because she is inspiring to me. I’ve always wanted to design a Rustic Montana home, which is Abby’s specialty! I love her eye for color and design and how she steps out-of-the box to add things to a space that wow!”

Abby Heatherington is a distinguished interior designer known for her blend of modern aesthetics and timeless elegance. With a degree in Interior Design and experience at renowned firms, she launched her own studio in 2015 and quickly made a name for herself in the industry.

Her journey reflects a commitment to understanding client needs and creating beautiful and functional spaces.

Heatherington’s design style features a soothing color palette, rich textures, and a focus on sustainability. She expertly incorporates personal elements that reflect her clients’ stories, ensuring each space is unique.

Her ability to seamlessly blend various styles—from mid-century modern to traditional—sets her apart, allowing her to create cohesive environments that resonate on a personal level. Notable projects showcase her versatility, ranging from urban apartments to country homes, all characterized by her attention to detail and dedication to quality. Abby Heatherington’s innovative approach continues to inspire and influence the world of interior design.

Kaley’s Pick: Kelly Wearstler.

“I chose Kelly because of her use of color and different textures. As she moves through a project, she chooses pieces that at first look like they wouldn’t go together, but the way she pulls it all together at the end is just so fun to see!”

Kelly Wearstler is a luminary in the world of interior design, renowned for her bold and eclectic style that masterfully fuses vintage and modern elements.
Born November 21, 1967, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, she studied at The Massachusetts College of Art. She quickly made a name for herself in luxury residential and commercial projects after moving to Los Angeles.
Her early experiences working alongside established designers helped refine her distinct aesthetic, characterized by rich textures, vibrant colors, and unexpected materials. Wearstler’s design philosophy goes beyond mere aesthetics; she believes spaces should evoke emotion and tell a story.
Her high-profile projects, such as the Viceroy Santa Monica and the Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills, often resemble art installations, showcasing her talent for mixing styles, eras, and artistic elements. This fearless approach has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition from the American Society of Interior Designers and a spot on the Elle Decor A-List.
In addition to her influential design work, Wearstler has authored several books, including “Modern Glamour” and “Rhapsody,” which delve into her design philosophy and showcase her projects.
She has also launched her own home decor and furniture line, solidifying her status as a lifestyle brand. With a knack for blending artistic creativity with business acumen, Kelly Wearstler continues to push boundaries in the design world, inspiring a new generation of designers while creating personalized spaces for her celebrity clients. Her legacy is one of innovation, emotion, and fearless self-expression in interior design.

Beth’s Pick: Amber Lewis.

“Amber doesn’t have a formal education in Interior Design and neither do I. She has an innate talent and learned on the job which I appreciate. I relate to her background and love her California casual style.”

Amber Lewis is a prominent interior designer, and the founder of Amber Interiors, a Los Angeles-based design firm celebrated for its unique blend of California calm and relaxed sophistication.

Known for her signature aesthetic, Lewis’s work embodies layered, eclectic styles that prioritize comfort and livability while remaining elevated and curated. Her designs often feature neutral tones and natural materials, creating inviting spaces that resonate with her clients’ lifestyles.

Beyond interior design, Amber runs Shoppe Amber Interiors, an online store offering furniture and home decor that reflect her distinctive style. She has also penned a design book titled *Made for Living*, sharing tips and inspiration with her followers.

Lewis has garnered significant attention on social media, making her a sought-after figure in the industry, and she frequently collaborates with brands on high-end residential projects nationwide.

Interestingly, Amber’s journey into design was not through formal education. After a year in an interior design program, she seized an opportunity as a design assistant, believing it to be a faster path to her passion. This leap, though risky, allowed her to immerse herself in the field, absorbing knowledge and honing her instincts. Amber’s success stems from her creative drive and hands-on experience, proving that passion and perseverance can forge a remarkable path in the world of design.

Jasmine’s Pick: Frank Lloyd Wright.

“I picked Frank Lloyd Wright because I love his design style when it comes to using/incorporating nature. Since I grew up in a rural area, his design resonates with me.“

Frank Lloyd Wright, born on June 8, 1867, in Richland Center, Wisconsin, was a pioneering figure in American architecture.
Growing up in a culturally rich household in rural Wisconsin, Wright was deeply influenced by his mother, Anna Lloyd Jones, who instilled in him a love for education and the arts. His time on the family farm nurtured a profound connection to nature, a theme that would later become central to his architectural philosophy.
Wright is best known for popularizing the concept of organic architecture, which emphasizes harmony between human habitation and the natural environment. His designs sought to integrate buildings seamlessly into their surroundings, making them feel like an extension of the landscape.
Although the term “biophilic design” wasn’t coined until later, Wright’s work embodies its principles. He believed in connecting people to nature through architecture, using natural materials and forms that reflect the environment. Additionally, Wright’s vision extended beyond buildings; he designed furniture, stained glass, and textiles, striving for a total design approach that created cohesive and harmonious spaces.
Despite his monumental influence on architecture, Wright never held a formal architectural degree. He briefly studied civil engineering at the University of Wisconsin before leaving to apprentice with the esteemed architect Louis Sullivan in Chicago, often referred to as the “father of skyscrapers.”
Remarkably, Wright remained active in his work well into his 90s, continuing to design and teach until his passing in 1959. His final masterpiece, the Guggenheim Museum, was completed at the age of 91, underscoring his lifelong dedication to innovation and design. Wright’s legacy continues to inspire architects and designers, affirming his status as a transformative figure in the world of architecture.