Where do you live and how long have you lived there?
My current residence is in my home city of Washington, DC. I have been in my new home for three years.
What made you choose the property?
The interior space was filled with great light and plenty of space for me to redesign the interior to suit my needs. It also had an adjoining property that would give me the chance to design an outdoor garden with a pool and pool house. This is a great luxury for a home located in the middle of a city.
What does your home say about you?
The house is truly a retrospective of my furniture designs over the past 15 years. All of the furnishings, with the exemption of a few antiques, are my designs. It is interesting to see how my pieces have all come together to create my home. I was also able to create a modern classical architectural spirit that I am very comfortable with.
Is there anything you would change about it, or anything you wish you had done differently?
No. For this period of my life this house is very comfortable. It is large enough to allow me to add new pieces or new ideas as I wish. Maybe in the future my needs will change and I will move on to a new home, perhaps larger or smaller - we will see.
What is the key to creating a happy home?
Do not settle for furnishings and objects you do not love. It is better to live with less that you love than lots of things you find meaningless.
Which items would no home of yours be without?
Family photos, a warm kitchen and big bathroom.
Where do you like to shop for pieces for your home?
Everywhere. My projects take me all around the world, so I am always shopping for clients and discovering new sources for furniture, art and objects. In doing so I have found beautiful pieces to send home.
Do you incorporate elements of your work into your home, or do you like to keep your domestic environment separate?
I think a home should be a personal reflection of the owner. Most of the furniture in my home is my design. What could be more personal than that? I do collect objects and art to complete my interiors.
Are there any particular projects or products that you are especially proud of?
My projects are so diverse that it is impossible to pick a favourite one. In looking back, the first time my work was presented in Architectural Digest was a big personal moment for me. That project represented my launch into international recognition. It was a very special and exciting time for me as a young designer, and I will never forget how proud my parents were.
What are you working on right now?
Presently, I am working on projects in Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, Paris, Moscow and Singapore. This spring I will be launching a new collection for Baker that is very exciting.
I am also working on a new line of china, crystal and silver that will launch in the fall of 2012.
What inspires your work?
Travel always provides me with inspiration. I recently returned from Venice, where I was so inspired by the colours and patinas of the buildings that line the canals. I am also inspired to create some new lighting using the masterful glass factories in Murano.
Who are your favourite designers?
I admire so many designers currently creating interiors today. As for designers that have influenced my own evolution, I would say that the French designers of the past midcentury have given me so much inspiration.
How would you describe your interior style?
Thoughtful and serene.
If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would it be?
Along with my home in Washington, I have an apartment in Paris that is a dream realised. I feel fortunate to live in my two favourite cities.
How do you like to relax?
I love to walk city streets silently and think - no iPhone, no conversation, just be an observer. I love the quiet and it is the time I am most open to inspiration.
What is the best way to simply and instantly update a room?
Find a wonderful new piece of art that really touches you. Bring it into your home and immediately you bring in new energy that reflects your current state of mind.
