Get inspired by the captivating design vision of Desert X board member Kelly Wearstler, known for her bold and thought-provoking concepts.
Delve into Kelly Wearstler’s expert techniques to craft spaces that sing with unified design. Her work is a symphony of practicality and layered beauty, each piece offering a stimulating journey for the senses. Wearstler’s design philosophy champions the importance of honoring the architecture, history, and location of every project, ensuring each space tells its own unique story.
Ready to infuse your home with Wearstler’s captivating narratives? Let’s explore some of her most inspiring residential designs and unlock the secrets to transforming your space.
1. Comfortable Guest Room In Small Space
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Seeking design solutions for compact spaces? Take a cue from Kelly Wearstler’s transformation of this guest room. She emphasizes working with existing architectural elements to redefine the space’s ambiance. By highlighting the structural ceiling and incorporating carefully chosen furnishings, her team created an intimate and inviting retreat.
The plush Souffle bed from the Kelly Wearstler collection anchors the room, promising restful nights. Functional elegance is added with a pair of Baltic side tables by Christopher Gentner and the warm glow of Matteo Thun’s Laguna table lamp. These pieces enhance the room’s usability without sacrificing its airy feel.
A touch of nature with a small indoor plant and thoughtfully selected artwork softens the room’s lines and adds a personal touch.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace the existing architecture to guide your design.
- Choose a statement piece of furniture for comfort and style.
- Prioritize functionality with carefully selected side tables and lighting.
- Add warmth and personality with plants and artwork.
This design approach works beautifully in various small spaces, including attic rooms. In fact, if you’re ready to transform your attic, explore more space-saving ideas in “2024’s Top Attic Room Ideas—Unlock Space-Saving Potential.”
2. Inspiring & Comfortable Home Office
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Need ideas for a home office that inspires? Look no further than Kelly Wearstler’s design philosophy. This featured home office showcases how a workspace can be both visually stunning and intellectually invigorating.
In the private residence pictured, a custom desk crafted from rich wood and Rosso Levanto marble takes center stage. The exquisite “Aghia” table lamp adds a touch of artistry, while the Ebell table paired with vintage 1960s armchairs invites comfortable contemplation.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace calming hues like terracotta, beige, and brown to create a serene and focused environment.
- Opt for clean lines and timeless designs for a sophisticated yet inviting workspace.
- Incorporate natural wood elements for warmth and a connection to nature.
- Introduce visual interest and personality with a patterned rug or other geometric accents.
Wearstler’s design proves that a home office can be so much more than just a functional space. By incorporating these elements, you can create a sanctuary that fosters productivity and creativity.
3. Cozy Dining Area
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In this stunning dining area, the eye is immediately drawn to the striking Fin Palm chandelier by Nader Gammas, positioned above the Clay Table. The mid-century armchairs by Thygesen & Sørensen create a harmonious balance of classic and contemporary design, showcasing Wearstler’s signature ability to seamlessly blend eras.
The floor-to-ceiling sliding doors act as a captivating focal point, framing the verdant outdoor scenery and fostering a connection between the interior and nature. The earthy color palette infuses the space with warmth and welcome.
Key Takeaways:
- A dramatic chandelier anchors the room and adds a touch of glamor.
- Mix furniture and decor from different eras to create a unique and layered look.
- Utilize large windows or doors to invite nature in and create a sense of openness.
- Opt for warm, natural colors to foster a welcoming atmosphere.
- Incorporate unique artwork, textured fabrics, and a mix of materials like wood and concrete to elevate the design.
By applying these elements, you can recreate the inviting and sophisticated feel of Wearstler’s dining area in your own home. This design approach translates beautifully to a family breakfast nook or any space where you want to create a sense of warmth and connection.
4. Welcoming Living Space
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This living room showcases Wearstler’s mastery of blending vintage finds with contemporary design elements—20th-century gems like Dan Johnson’s 50 Rope Lounge Chair, a 70s Cassina sofa, and Mitchell Bobrick’s Control Lamp add character and history, while the overall aesthetic remains fresh and modern.
The predominantly neutral color palette, punctuated by subtle warm tones, creates a sense of tranquility. Natural wood finishes on panels, chairs, and other furniture bring an organic element, while the textured rug and sofa fabric add depth and visual interest. The modern shapes of the seating contrast beautifully with the vintage pieces, creating a dynamic and balanced composition.
Key Takeaways:
- Incorporate carefully curated vintage pieces to add character and a sense of history.
- Create a calming atmosphere with a predominantly neutral color scheme and subtle pops of warmth.
- Bring in wood elements with natural finishes for an organic touch.
- Add depth and visual interest with textured rugs, throws, and upholstery.
- Introduce unique sculptural pieces for an artistic touch without overwhelming the space.
5. Transformation with Textiles
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In this snapshot from her Malibu home, Kelly Wearstler demonstrates the transformative power of textiles. By simply reupholstering her Mario Bellini Pianura Sofa with fresh fabric, she has breathed new life into the entire living room.
As Wearstler shared on Instagram, she’s constantly experimenting with new applications for timeless patterns and weaves, especially in her own home. This simple yet impactful update proves how textiles can dramatically alter a space’s mood and character.
Key Takeaways:
- Don’t underestimate the power of fabrics to transform a room.
- Give existing furniture a new lease on life with updated upholstery.
- Embrace bold patterns and luxurious textures to add depth and personality.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment and refresh your spaces as your tastes change.
Even small changes, like swapping out throw pillows or adding a new rug, can have a big impact. Let Kelly Wearstler’s approach inspire you to play with textiles and discover the endless possibilities for reinvigorating your home.
References
- World of Kelly, Kelly Wearstler Biography
- What is Mid-Century Style in Interior Design, Inspiration Design Books
