Interior designer Daun Curry talks design philosophy, her work process and perfect interior in a special interview by Contributing Editor Maja Vuckovic.
Daun Curry’s restrained and elegant rooms are sophisticated templates for modern living. While encompassing love for contemporary living the Manhattan based designer shapes her work for residential as well as hospitality projects. Some of her clients are Naomi Watts and Casey Neistat but also Sotheby’s, Jemma Wynne, Moroccanoil as well as hotel groups such as Morgans and The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.
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What made you become an interior designer?
I suppose I was always destined to be a designer, I just didn’t know what that meant in my youth. My parents owned and operated a greenhouse and glass studio in Palm Beach, Florida in the 1970’s where they made terrarium lamps and home accessories. They sold the company and relocated to a 20 acre plot of land in North Florida where they began organic farming. My world was very small, it was the 1980’s and there was no internet and we didn’t own a television.
I first came to New York in the summer of 1999 and I instantly fell in love. The city was so alive and there was endless inspiration on every corner. I soaked in the history and the culture. I became obsessed with architecture, design, fashion, and art. I knew that I had found my calling to be part of the design world.
Do you have any role models who inspire you in your work?
Zaha Hadid for her radical deconstructivist designs and her accomplishments as a woman architect, Josef Hoffmann for his work and involvement in the Vienna Secession movement, Architect Luis Barragan for his use of exuberant color, connection to nature, and confident simplicity.
I became obsessed with architecture, design, fashion, and art. I knew that I had found my calling to be part of the design world.
How would you describe your work process? What is your design philosophy?
Design has always been an intuitive exercise for me. Each project always presents a new opportunity to immerse myself into the architecture, the location, the client, and the function of the space. I’m often asked what my style is and truthfully I approach each project with fresh eyes. I believe that design should always move you. You should be able to feel it in the pit of your stomach – an immediate reaction. That is when I know the design is right and I keep pushing until I have that feeling.
What is a perfect interior for you?
One that has balance, scale and proportion. You can combine and mix just about anything as long as you get those things right.
What are the biggest challenges you have to face when working on a project?
Managing all the trades and keeping the timeline on schedule.
What projects are you working on at the moment?
A luxury cannabis lifestyle boutique in Boston, a modern glass beach house in Venice Beach, California, a French Chateau-style lake house just outside of Montreal, Canada, a townhouse renovation in New York’s West Village as well as several other residences in New York City, and the Hamptons.
What is your favourite project so far?
Projects are like children, you love them all equally. [smiles]
Is there anyone with whom you’d like to work with?
Anyone with a great love for design and, of course, an unlimited budget.
Keep moving forward, continue to be curious about the world around me and aware of my blessings.
Speaking of comfortable budgets, how was it working for Sotheby’s & The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas?
Both truly amazing experiences.
Sotheby’s was like a playground full of treasures. To walk the inventory halls and have a close and personal encounter with master paintings, art, sculpture and iconic furniture pieces was definitely a career highlight. They were so lovely and supportive of my vision, I am really grateful for the experience.
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas was the definition of a dream project. Las Vegas is one of the most interesting and exciting places to work as a designer – no idea is too big and you are really encouraged to immerse yourself in the fantasy and allure of it all. The Cosmopolitan team was amazingly supportive and professional, they were instrumental in the execution of our designs.
Reflecting on your portfolio, what do you wanna be remembered for?
Being brave with my design choices and true to myself and my vision.
What are your goals for the future?
Keep moving forward, continue to be curious about the world around me and aware of my blessings.
Finally, any advice for young designers who want to start their own firm?
Take risks, flirt with going over the top but always stand just back from the edge.
Keep up with Daun on Instagram @dauncurry
this is stunning and so inspiring. loving these interiors by daun curry