For those of you who are unfamiliar with my current obsession, Jamie Drake is an uber-famous American interior designer. Very few designers have the ability to achieve what Jamie Drake has perfected. The architect of some of the country’s most glamorous spaces, Drake has designed homes for Madonna, apartments in the Dakota and other historic landmark buildings, and multiple projects for his long time client New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, including the renovation of the Mayor’s ceremonial residence, and various rooms at City Hall.
Renowned for his exuberant color sense, Drake is a master at creating unexpected, yet inviting, livable environments. In his own words, “My take on color is painterly. I find unusual shades and juxtapositions intriguing. Each room and each project offers different opportunities—sometimes I employ colorful accents in a more neutral space and other times a room will be slathered with color in a variety of tones and shades. Every surface is absolutely considered even if it’s one that’s off-white or gray—it’s all part of an overall vision.”
Jamie, thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Is there any chance you will call me next time you are in Los Angeles so we can have a cocktail together please? ;)
Q: What inspires you?
A: I find inspiration every day, in the newspapers and magazines I read, walking the streets of whatever city I’m in, or out the window of a NYC cab as I’m on my way to work.
Q: If someone is on a budget but can splurge on only one piece, what should they purchase?
A: A great comfortable sofa. Nothing worse than sitting on something hard and with the wrong proportion, and with bad tailoring.
Q: When starting a new project, what is the first thing you do?
A: The minute I walk into a new project, or view the floor plan, I immediately envision the best layout. 95% of the time its the layout I stick with. This is where I begin.
Q: Is there a classic—a staple—that is always a part of your design…a signature?
A: I hate stagnation, so there really isn’t any specific piece of furniture or color that I would consider a staple. What’s consistent is a boldness, a savoir faire and stylish urbanity.
Q: What are 5 essential pieces that very individual should have in their home?
A: A place to sleep, a place to sit, a place to wash, a light to illuminate and something to cherish. The rest is really the frosting on the cake. And I love dessert!!
Q: In your opinion, what makes a great room?
A: A great room is one where the passions and personalities of the inhabitants are evident. I love rooms that pulsate with interesting juxtapositions and details and objects that you discover as you inhabit the space.
Q: Where are the best ways to save money if someone is on a budget but wants high style?
A: Paint!! The number one value to create a stylish statement. It takes some labor, but that’s what the weekends are for. A room can be transformed with a coral ceiling, or cobalt walls.
Q: What room is your favorite room to decorate, and why?
A: Living rooms, as I always envision them filled with people, ready for a party!
Q: What are 3 ideas for a small living space?
A: 1) Paint a rectangle of color on one wall. Hold it 6-8” from the baseboard, ceiling and side walls. It creates a sense of depth, and looks great when layered with art or a mirror. Alone it is a niche or tapestry. 2) Mirror the corners of a room, a 12” strip butting in a corner dissolves the space. 3) Make sure your furniture is on legs. Avoid bulky upholstered chairs and sofas.
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