Kelly Wearstler embodies a relentless work ethic and an innovative approach to design. Building a global lifestyle brand requires not only talent and tenacity but also strategic networking and a bit of luck. However, these elements alone don't always ensure a venture reaches its full potential.
Wearstler's journey to entrepreneurial success illustrates that fulfilling one's dreams in this field is more intricate than mere surface allure. She combines keen instincts, unwavering self-confidence, and a continuous drive for growth – insights she generously shares along with valuable interior design insights.
Since establishing her namesake studio Kelly Wearstler in 1995 as a solo designer, she has expanded to a firm employing 50 designers and architects, located in West Hollywood, Los Angeles.
Renowned for her breathtaking boutique hotel makeovers, she has also revamped restaurants, retail spaces, and crafted aspirational residences for celebrities like Gwen Stefani and Cameron Diaz. In addition, she's authored five books on interior design and served as a judge on the reality show Top Design (2007/2008).
Her creative endeavors include collaborations with prominent brands, curating collections of fabrics, wallpapers, lighting, rugs, tiles, apparel, jewelry, and furniture, highlighted by her 2021 Transcendence designs and a new paint line: the California Collection created with Farrow & Ball.
Aesthetic Approach
What defines Kelly Wearstler's design aesthetic? Her work has been analyzed for years, with many trying to classify it within specific styles. Some see elements of mid-century modernism and Hollywood Regency, while others label it as maximalist or 'uninhibited' West Coast glam. Yet, like other iconic designers who challenged conventions, Wearstler's style evades simple categorization.
In numerous interviews, she emphasizes the importance of taking risks. 'I naturally gravitate towards a Californian, west-coast aesthetic – a blend of effortless luxury and natural materials. I strive not to confine myself to boundaries; my style is always evolving,' Kelly shares. 'I enjoy mixing elements and taking chances by merging contrasting designs such as old and new, raw and refined, masculine and feminine.'
Her work is often referred to as provocative, showcasing an eclectic and bold celebration of color, pattern, scale, and texture that elicits strong emotional responses.
Path to Design
From a young age, Kelly recognized her calling in a creative career. She excelled in art at school, had a passion for fashion, and cultivated a love for discovering treasures in thrift and vintage shops during her childhood.
'I've been captivated by design for as long as I can remember. My mother took me to antique shows and auctions, broadening my understanding of design,' Kelly recalls.
'Interior design is my dream job, incorporating my passions for pattern, texture, fashion, architecture, art history, and light.'
Chasing the Dream
Vignette in a Beverly Hills residence, by Kelly Wearstler. Photograph © Kelly Wearstler: Evocative Style, Rizzoli New York, 2019
Growing up in a working-class family with young parents, Kelly was inspired by strong women around her who taught her the value of hard work.
'My mother and my female relatives encouraged my independence and creativity, instilling a robust work ethic that helped shape my style,' Kelly explains.
Although she enjoyed a happy childhood in Myrtle, South Carolina, Kelly sought broader experiences and moved to Boston to attend Massachusetts College of Art, where she earned a degree in interior and graphic design, while also working evenings to fund her education.
She completed internships at Cambridge Seven Associates in Boston and the acclaimed graphic and interior design firm Milton Glaser in New York.
After graduation, she briefly worked in film production in Los Angeles but soon realized her desire to be an independent designer, leading her to establish her own company in 1995. While her business grew through word-of-mouth, she also waited tables at night to support herself.
Initially focusing on residential projects, her big break came in 1999 with a commission to design the home of real estate developer Brad Korzen, whom she married in 2002. Korzen is the founder and CEO of the Los Angeles-based Kor Group, established in 1999.
Her first significant hospitality project was the interior redesign of the Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills, marking a pivotal moment in her career.
Influential Figures
It's no wonder that many of Kelly's design inspirations are individuals known for their unique styles and trailblazing approaches.
'Some designers who've influenced me include Ettore Sottsass and Gio Ponti, both of whom challenged the norms of their time,' Kelly notes. 'I admire designs that cleverly use materials and juxtapose styles across eras.'
The Met Museum recognized Ettore Sottsass (1917-2007) as a Design Radical in its 2017 exhibition. Giovanni 'Gio' Ponti (1891-1979), a Milanese architect celebrated for his avant-garde contributions, was also influential.
Curiosity in Design
Harper Avenue Residence by Kelly Wearstler. Photograph © Kelly Wearstler: Evocative Style, Rizzoli New York, 2019
Kelly's vibrant, meticulously curated style reflects her energetic and inquisitive nature.
She seeks out 'the anomalies' and hidden talents, always striving to evolve. Her home serves as her creative workspace, and she remains eager to refine her artistic vision.
'Your voice and aesthetic are a continuous journey, influenced by new experiences, art, and music,' Kelly explains.
When asked about her design superpower, she states, 'I never replicate my work. Every project is unique and tells its own story.'
Defining Milestones
'Creating my MasterClass was a dream endeavor, pushing me to evolve in unexpected ways. If you're truly passionate about something, you can achieve anything with heart and dedication.'
Kelly was the first interior designer featured on the MasterClass platform.
Current Endeavors
Hotels remain a major focus for Kelly. The Downtown LA Proper hotel, the fourth in the Proper series designed by her, is set to soft launch in August 2021. Recently, she also completed the Broad Beach residential project.
Studio Expertise
'We take a multi-disciplinary approach and can handle any project. This year, we imagined a conceptual design for a new Hummer EV,' Kelly shares.
Above is one of the promotional images from Kelly's collaboration with Farrow & Ball.
Evolution of Business
'Every project is truly unique. Looking back, I see them as snapshots of time – my passions have remained, but I have broadened my perspective through new discoveries,' Kelly reflects.
'Creative cross-pollination within the studio informs every interior project and product design we undertake.'
Favorite Sources
'I love sourcing new items; it's my absolute favorite activity! I dedicate a lot of time to research and online exploration. Here are some of my go-to places for sourcing:'
While traveling, I also hunt for vintage pieces.
Every year, my team and I attend Round Top, an extraordinary vintage fair in Austin, Texas, brimming with unique finds for our projects.
Ideal Collaborations
'I'd love to collaborate with a fashion house like Louis Vuitton or work on a transportation project – a yacht or airplane would be incredible!'
Additional Insights
Kelly serves as a board member for Desert X, a charity organization focused on creating public art exhibitions that resonate with the desert environment, promote cultural exchange, and provide platforms for artists worldwide to address important themes.
