Celebrated interior designer Meg Braff’s new book, The Decorated Home: Living with Style and Joy (Rizzoli) is full of beautiful images and inspiring advice for both novice decorators and industry experts. The Locust Valley-based designer’s literary debut is all about creating rooms that are both attractive and functional, through the smart use of color and patterns. Here, she reveals the details of her sharply-honed style and her best design advice.
Congratulations on your new book. What was your goal with The Decorated Home? With this book I have tried to distill my thoughts and experiences from over 25 years of decorating, with chapters focused on choosing colors, how to effectively use patterns, and the importance of thoughtful details and personal touches.
How would you describe your style? Chic and timeless, a youthful take on traditional design. I strive to create rooms that are livable, colorful and imbued with playful glamour and a modern perspective. I love to mix heirloom antiques and tag sale finds with contemporary pieces, and have a predilection for chinoiserie.
What do you keep in mind with bedrooms? My best advice with a bedroom is to keep it pretty! In terms of design, I would say choose one main statement, and let it dictate all your other choices.
How about kitchens—what do you love to see? I simply cannot resist a crisp white kitchen. To keep it from feeling ho-hum I always choose a vibrant color or pattern [to] deploy in traditional areas, like a backsplash or barstool upholstery, and in less expected areas like the insides of a glass fronted cabinet or even the ceiling.
Do you have a favorite part of your job? I love talking to clients, listening to their needs and desires, and then thoughtfully considering how to improve their lives through design.
Photographs by David Land
