We’re back with a new guest tastemaker for some quick-fire questions and a mini-curation of some fab Chairish finds!
This week, we’re profiling interior designer Marissa Stokes, whose work ranges from Creole townhouses in New Orleans to ranches in Montana to luxury apartments in Manhattan. For years, Marissa worked as a designer at David Kleinberg Design Associates, Jayne Design Studio, and Victoria Hagan Interiors where she honed in on her own unique style. After an already impressive career, Marissa took the plunge and started her own eponymous firm. A life-long lover of all things interior, Marissa evokes a feeling of polished comfort in all her designs. She utilizes unexpected color schemes and sophisticated fittings to create a classic and timeless space.
Read on to find out how her parents cultivated her love for design, and why she can’t get enough of vintage glassware.
What sparked your passion for design?
I wanted to be an interior designer from a very young age. My parents are both creative people and were always doing things to improve our home, whether it was painting, sewing a pillow, stenciling a wall, making a piece of furniture, or renovating. I always had a love for transforming spaces, and I sort of fell into a career of it.
What is the most memorable career moment you’ve had so far?
Taking the leap to start my own business. I had to pinch myself when I was completing my first installation for my business. My clients were so happy when they walked in. They celebrated with a high five and a bottle of champagne. It was such a rewarding experience.
What is the most outstanding design element you’ve ever incorporated into a space?
One of my favorite items I recently incorporated into a space is a pair of Paolo Buffa chairs. I have a soft spot for them because they are a style I have admired from very early on in my career. When I was a junior designer learning the ropes at David Kleinberg Design Associates, I remember a client purchasing a pair—I loved their style then and still do now. I was thrilled when another pair recently became available and I was able to present them to my client. They were the very first item we purchased, and we designed the scheme around them.
What is the coolest vintage piece in your house?
A Jean-Michel Frank oak and vellum cabinet. I’ve always loved JMF’s designs. They are beautifully proportioned, classic, and timeless. I constantly look to his work for inspiration when designing new custom pieces for clients. The cabinet came up for auction and I jumped on it. It’s one of the first pieces I purchased for myself and the coolest piece I own.
Do you collect anything? What sparked your interest in collecting that item?
I collect vintage glassware and china. If I pop into an antique shop, that’s where you’ll find me perusing first. My grandmother collected teacups and saucers. I have a lot of pieces from her collection and I followed her footsteps.
