The Imaginative World of Palmer Weiss

A lover of antiques with South Carolina roots, San Francisco-based Palmer Weiss creates unique retreats with a touch of Southern charm. Here, she shares what’s inspiring her, along with a few Chairish favorites.

SHOP PALMER WEISS’ CHAIRISH FAVORITES >>>

How has your approach to design been shaped by growing up in Charleston, South Carolina and, later, building your career in San Francisco?

Charleston is all about history and tradition and the city exudes a deep love for antiques and classical architectural roots. You’d be hard pressed to find more beautiful examples of historical architecture in the U.S., which has been so painstakingly preserved and protected. Growing up, I rode my bike to school, passing some of the best examples of Federal and Georgian architecture every day. I soaked it all up and that experience had a huge impact on my design aesthetic. 

I also find that many Southerners and Charlestonians, in particular, are passionate about their homes in a way I don’t experience elsewhere. I think the home is seen as a reflection of one’s family history and as such antiques and heirlooms are not only treasured, but incorporated in everyday life.

San Francisco, on the other hand, feels like the complete opposite of Charleston. It is more of a transplant city, and California in general has this energy of newness, innovation and represents a break in tradition. This is what I absolutely love about San Francisco and what drew me here in the first place! People aren’t so tied to tradition, rather they are more about starting fresh and creating something unique. From a design perspective, this is a dream, because there aren’t really “rules” around architecture or decorating. Moving here really helped shape my work, because I don’t feel restrained by anything. 

Now, my work is a blend of these two worlds—the history and charm of the South with the freedom and innovation of California. 

Tell us about your approach to vintage and antique finds. How do you like to incorporate vintage into your projects?

Vintage and antique pieces are integral to everything I do—they’re like salt to a chef! It’s not a question of if they’ll be included; it’s about how. To me, incorporating vintage is as essential as the paint on the walls—it’s what makes a space feel special and personal. 

The type of vintage or antique pieces I choose depends on the project. If for whatever reason a home isn’t a fit for large vintage furniture pieces, I’ll focus on sourcing vintage art, lamps or accessories for the space. Incorporating these pieces is one of the best ways to infuse uniqueness and personality into a home. 

With everything being mass-produced today, vintage pieces have a story and a charm you can’t replicate. Even if a piece doesn’t have personal history for a client, it still adds a special touch that makes a home feel personal.

What eras or icons of vintage furniture design are you most drawn to and why?

This is a little like being asked to pick a favorite child—it’s impossible! It might actually be easier to list the ones I’m less drawn to, such as styles at either end of the spectrum, like extremely modern or overly ornate. I definitely gravitate towards English designs from the late 18th century and early 19th centuries, which often overlap with Charleston styles. These pieces tend to exhibit beautiful details like inlays or interesting legs and feet, but aren’t overly ‘goopy,’ to use a technical term.  

You have a BA in the history of art and architecture from Brown, as well as an MBA from Northwestern. Does your process include 1) reverence for historic architecture and 2) the curation and installation of art? If so, how?

Of course, my practice involves reverence for historical architecture and a deep love and appreciation for art! But honestly, you don’t need an art history degree for that to be the case. As far as how my background has helped prepare me for this career, I feel it is all about training your eye. Honestly, I’d probably fail an art history test today with little recollection for names and exact dates, but what stuck with me in all those years looking at slides, visiting galleries, and soaking up architecture during my travels is the ability to recognize beauty. The more you look at good quality things, the more you’re likely to spot them, whether it’s at a high-end gallery or a market. 

I would say the biggest advantage my studies gave me was the complete visual immersion in work by the very best. While I spent four years in classrooms and in the field, you could learn a great deal on your own from books, visiting museums, traveling or simply frequenting the best galleries, structures or stores.

That said, I’ve been drawn to art my entire life. I thought I wanted to be a photographer at one point, worked in galleries, and come from a very artistic family. Art has always been a part of my life. 

And while I have an art degree, I’m definitely not an art snob. Growing up in the South, I developed a love for Southern folk art, which by definition is created by untrained artists. But I also love everything from contemporary gallery pieces to cool flea market finds. I believe anything can be art if it’s arranged thoughtfully and feels authentic to the space. 

And while my MBA isn’t something at the center of my day-to-day, it taught me how to think strategically, because ultimately, this is a business. And going to a program that centered entirely on collaborative work was instrumental, as design is the ultimate group project!

What’s currently inspiring you?

This might not be the typical answer from a designer, but I’ve always been inspired by sports! There’s just something about watching people leave it all on the field that is so motivating. In general, I am inspired by anyone who strives to be great at something and pushes themselves to be better and athletes often offer an easy example of that.

For example, look at someone like Steph Curry. He has dedicated himself so wholeheartedly to his craft and at an age that means retirement for most of his peers, he still plays at the top of his game with joy. Watching that kind of commitment inspires me to try to bring the same energy to my work as a designer. It’s about showing up, putting in the effort, getting back up when you get knocked down and always trying to do a little better than the day before.

ON CHAIRISH & VINTAGE PIECES

What do you find most compelling about Chairish?

Living in the Bay area and having the opportunity to travel has always given me great resources, but Chairish has opened up my purchasing world. I love having access to the best dealers and shops from around the world—all at my fingertips from my office in the Presidio.  

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

Hugely! I’m no sustainability expert, but I am a big believer in doing what you can to do better for our planet. Everyone should do as much as they can while still living in a home that feels comfortable and personal. While I wish I lived a completely carbon-neutral life, I do not. I don’t eat beef, but I drive an SUV—it is about striking a balance that you can feel good about and maintain.

That said, the hardest part of my job is knowing how much waste design can create. When a client wants to get rid of things, I’ll do anything to keep it out of the landfill, whether that’s repurposing, donating or finding it a new home.  

One of the reasons that I love antiques so much is that every purchase you make quite literally saves a piece from a dump or from a new piece being fabricated to take its place. 

A FEW DESIGN FAVORITES 

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

There are so many ways you can make a statement; it’s too hard to just pick one favorite! I’m a huge fan of fabric and print. You can drench a room in a fun print or use it on a big upholstered piece to make an impact. Another favorite is a scenic wallpaper or mural—those instantly transform a space! 

I also love using lighting as a statement, especially in clean and serene rooms. Finally, art is such a great tool. Whether it’s an amazing collection or one huge photograph that you feel like you can walk into, art can bring so much personality into a space.

Favorite paint color? Anything but white!  

Favorite piece of decor in your home? I love the Robert Kime Picture Railings I have installed in my living room and the art that’s on it, particularly the Mario Robinson watercolor over the chest of drawers. 

Favorite style icon? This might be an unpopular answer, but I don’t believe in icons. I feel as though I carry a little bit of everyone who has ever influenced me—from my mom, my teachers, favorite artists, fellow designers down to the last Instagram post I just saw.

Design destination every creative should visit at least once? For anyone who loves color, craft and history, India is a must-visit. I highly recommend Travel w/Grant; I had an amazing travel experience with him!

A FEW LIFESTYLE FAVORITES

Favorite Instagram accounts to follow? @houseandgardenuk, @momsbehavingbadly, @leahoconnelldesign

Favorite hostess (or thank you) gift? They say you should always give what you want to receive, so it’s the amazing scented candle Abd El Kader by Trudon. 

Favorite vacation destination? I’m completely smitten with the Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay hotel outside of Paris. I recently stayed here while visiting my daughter, who’s studying abroad, and was blown away. 

I’m also partial to any place with water, because I love to swim! 

Favorite flower? Peonies.

Favorite entertaining essential? A well stocked bar and interesting guests! 

Lead Image: Interior Design by Palmer Weiss, Photography by Francesco Lagnese/OTTO.