One of my favorite design firms, New York-basked S.R. Gambrel, was founded by Steven Gambrel in 1995. Gambrel studied architecture at the University of Virginia and has had his designs featured in publications such as Elle Decor, House and Garden, New York Magazine, and many others. He also recently published his first book featuring his own design projects titled Steven Gambrel: Time and Place.
Steven Gambrel: Time and Place
S.R. Gambrel’s designs are bold and masculine with no reservations. His work’s unexpected grandeur comes from a flair for pulling elements together. He uses an eclectic mix of pieces for dynamic results. I’ve found that seeing things from Gambrel’s architectural view makes me a better designer.
A great combination of colors in this Southampton space.
Steven Gambrel’s incredible interiors often include his own custom designed furniture, rugs, and lighting. He carries his love of modern married with traditional to his furnishings. Gambrel’s designs show careful attention to the impact of details. Each piece could be an antique or found item. Urban Electric recently launched a collaboration with Steven Gambrel featuring a collection that celebrates hand-made American craftsmanship. The line is elegant and modern with pieces that are functional and practical but still exhibit interesting scale and attention to detail.
Malplaquet by S.R. Gambrel for Urban Electric
The Grayfoy pendant by S.R Gambrel – The hand-blown violet glass is subtle yet so sophisticated.
Stanton Chair: The contrast channel and button detail is key!
Lighting by S.R. Gambrel. Gorgeous!
Books about interior design are definitely not hard to find. Any bookstore or website you visit is sure to have an overwhelming number of design books to choose from, but which ones are worth your time and money?
I’d suggest you start with the designers you love. Whose work speaks to you and reflects your own style best? If he or she has a book, it will probably be a good investment. You can also check out your favorite design magazines for book suggestions and reviews to get an idea where to start. Finally, following interior design blogs or websites will introduce you to books others have found inspiring and useful.
On that note, I’d like to share some of my favorite books by incredible designers. These invaluable resources contain so much creativity and inspiration, from the overall themes down to the smallest details.
Katie Ridder Rooms by Heather Smith McIsaac, photographs by Eric Piasecki.
Jeffrey Bilhuber: Defining Luxury: The Qualities of Life at Home
Traditional Now: Interiors by David Kleinberg
Hue by By Kelly Wearstler
Mary McDonald: Interiors: The Allure of Style
Dealer’s Choice: At Home with Purveyors of Antique and Vintage Furnishings
b Spoke is a blog that mixes what happens when life experience and interior design are combined. As a designer, I come across things that inspire my creativity almost constantly, whether it's the vibrant color of moss growing on a stone wall or that perfect find at a local antique dealer. Taking that inspiration and sharing it with a wider audience is how bSpoke came into existence. ~ Amy Hirsch
Copyright ~ 2013
