NYC-based designer Katie Ridder has an exceptional eye for color and pattern. The unusual hues and daring design choices in some of her interiors might read as a bit wild and wacky in less experienced hands (think a lime green, high-gloss dining room with brown moldings and a disco ball pendant), but in Katie’s care, the result is exuberantly sophisticated. She’s known as someone who creates beautifully layered spaces, flecked with global nods. Her work has been featured in every major design publication (many times over in fact), she consistently scores a spot on ‘top designer’ lists, and has an impressive roster of A-list clients. Which is to say this is one acclaimed and prodigious pro, not to mention author, product designer, and gardener. Discover what Katie is currently coveting on Chairish in her exclusive collection of picks, plus her personal sources for inspiration, and a few of her favorite NYC spots.
SHOP KATIE RIDDER’S CHAIRISH COLLECTION >>
What do you love about shopping on Chairish?
Finding the unexpected! I love to find a one-off quirky piece that’s a good deal.
What are your favorite 3 items on Chairish right now?
Antique Turkish Oushak Rug, Embroidered Antique Swati Pillow, 1960’s Japanese Orange Porcelain Lamps
Favorite thing about designing with vintage pieces?
Vintage pieces are a great way to bring in one-of-a-kind, high-quality design.
Design
Favorite way to add drama to a room?
Color!
Favorite source for design inspiration?
My gardening friends, designers and architects such as Renzo Monigiardino, Alidad, Alberto Pinto, and John Soane, and jewelry designers such as Mish Tworkowski and David Webb.
Favorite paint color?
I love Farrow and Ball Archived Paint Colours.
Favorite pattern and how you love to use it?
I love collecting vintage fabrics and creating my own patterns for my fabric line.
Favorite design rule to break?
The first rule in decorating is there are no rules.
Favorite color combo?
Color is a big part of my design process and I am continually experimenting with new combinations.
Favorite way to mix high and low?
Kids spaces are a great place to use fun and inexpensive pieces.
Favorite way to work a bit of vintage into a room?
I love using antique dining tables purchased at auction.
You live in N.Y.C. but but have clients around the world. Is there a particular design element that you always subscribe to you in your work, regardless of where your clients live?
Colorful, unexpected and comfortable.
Lifestyle
Favorite travel destination to relax?
A family house in Mishaum Point, South Dartmouth, MA.
Favorite travel destination for design inspiration?
India.
Favorite hotel to check in to?
Casa del Mar in Santa Monica when visiting my children.
Favorite app?
Instagram
Favorite morning beverage?
Cappuccino
Favorite thank you/hostess gift?
Flowers
Favorite adult beverage?
Pinot Noir
Favorite saying/quote?
“Wow!”
Favorite entertaining essential?
Flowers and food cooked by my husband.
Favorite artist?
I love the exhibits at Pace Gallery on 57th street.
Favorite thing to collect?
Vintage fabrics
Local Favorites: NYC
Favorite hotel to recommend to visiting friends?
The Lowell
Favorite local culture hub?
New York Botanical Garden
Favorite local attraction?
The Frick Collection
Favorite local flea market/vintage hunting ground?
I love to shop at auction.
Shop Katie Ridder’s Chairish Picks >>
Lead photo by Eric Piasecki