10 Ways to Layer with Corey Damen Jenkins

From the AD100 to Elle Decor’s A-List, Corey Damen Jenkins’ expertise is unmatched. Generous in knowledge and spirit, he shares his Chairish favorites, along with 10 tips for creating a maximalist space that “maintains a perfect balance.”

SHOP COREY DAMEN JENKINS’ CHAIRISH FAVES >>>

1. Start with structure and symmetry.

Your interiors are very sensitive to the architecture of a space and often highlight unique architectural details. How has your background in art and architecture informed your interior design practice? 

Architectural bones give a space structure and symmetry. That is an essential ingredient for a beautiful space. Therefore, I never want our design and decoration plans to compete with that structure—rather they should work together cohesively.

2. Choose a star and a supporting cast.

You’re known for layering color, pattern, and texture, and your spaces feel very joyful. Any tips for collecting and layering? Where should one start?

I’ve found that the most important aspect of maximalist decorating is actually approaching the room with a minimalist mindset: you have to know when to stop. Start with accessorizing with things you love the most and remember that it’s like casting a movie: you can only have one star actor, and everything else becomes the supporting cast. For example, 1-3 objects on a cocktail table’s surface can be more effective than lots of things jumbled together that do not necessarily relate to each other. In other words, the most joyful rooms are achieved with maintaining a perfect balance—and being okay with editing out whatever doesn’t best serve the interior design.

3. Approach decor differences with diplomacy.

What have you carried with you from your time living and working in Detroit to your firm and your career in New York?

Growing up in the rural Midwest, I was taught the value of being modest and humble in my dealings with my staff, clients, contractors, and partners. Diplomacy is a huge component of what we do as interior designers every day—we have to manage so many different types of introverted and extroverted personalities. But a kind spirit is something that everyone can appreciate. And I believe that when people show humility towards others, almost any problem can be solved, and professional relationships grow and flourish.

4. Always include an antique.

Tell us about your approach to vintage and antique finds. Any tips for using them in a space?

In my professional opinion, no room is complete without at least one thing that speaks to antiquity. You can always find me scouring flea markets, antique centers, and even estate sales to find something unusual and unique. Even a very modern space can be enhanced with elements that have vintage DNA. There’s far less to talk about in a designed room when everything is brand new.

5. Hang artwork salon-style.

Any tips for installing artwork? Your art installations always feel so distinct, we’re wondering if you’ve developed some general guidelines for two- and three-dimensional artworks, depending on the type of space?

Artwork does not necessarily need to “match” a space or even the color palette. It is the most distinctive way a person can express their individuality and worldviews. So I would encourage people to be creative and uninhibited with their choices of art, subject matter and framing selections. If it all possible, try to avoid using hanging hardware that needlessly damages the walls—that way you have the freedom to change your mind, and move things around as you come across incredible finds in your travels. And if you have many disparate art pieces or framed photographs, grouping them together in a salon-style gallery wall installation can be an appropriate solution. I don’t care what anyone says—that will never go out of style.

6. Travel for inspiration.

What’s currently inspiring you?

I am constantly finding sources of inspiration on the haute couture fashion runway, and in my personal travels abroad—especially in Europe and Thailand.

Favorite historic place to visit? 

The beautiful Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory and Belle Isle Aquarium in Detroit, Michigan. This is the United States’ oldest, historically-preserved establishment in this category.

Favorite vacation destination?

France, especially the southern countryside.

Design destination every creative should visit at least once?

Thailand will change you forever.

7. Shop sustainably.

How does sustainability factor into your design choices and love of vintage? 

Sustainability plays a huge factor in the work that we do. All of our clients have an appreciation for our Earth and not needlessly wasting the planet’s resources. Antiquity and vintage items not only add beauty and historical narratives to the interiors we design: they are also sound investments that are environmentally responsible.

What do you find most compelling about Chairish?  

I am consistently blown away by the impressive range of choices available through the Chairish platform. I also appreciate the interactive nature of the buyer/seller procurement process. Chairish truly brings the global design and furnishings community to my fingertips—which is great for my client’s projects.

8. Wallpaper the ceiling.

Favorite way to create a statement-making moment in a room? 

Wallpaper the ceiling!

Favorite paint color?

“Glass Slipper” by Benjamin Moore.

9. Collect art, or make your own.

Favorite piece of decor in your home?

Our collection of artwork and sculpture: it is huge, worldly, and very diverse.

Favorite host (or thank you) gift?

Small framed sketches of architectural motifs hand-drawn by yours truly.

10. Decorate with dahlias.

Favorite flower?

Dahlias. Always dahlias. 

Favorite entertaining essential?

Wine charms for guests’ glasses, and handwritten name place cards.

Lead Image: Corey Damen Jenkins, Photography by Andrew Frasz.