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Hey there, design enthusiasts!

Let’s chat about the evolution of the interior design profession and the trailblazing designers who shaped the world of interior design. So, snuggle up in your comfiest spot, with your favourite throw, and let’s embark on this stylish journey together!

The Ancient World: Jack-of-all-Trades

Once upon a time, in the ancient world, the concept of an ‘interior designer’ was virtually non-existent.

Back in ancient times, the design of living spaces was typically an extension of architectural work, done by the master architects themselves. They would consider not only the structure but also the interior elements like spatial arrangements, light, and even décor. This holistic approach reflected a society where every aspect of building was interconnected.

As societies evolved, the distinction between architects and interior designers became more pronounced. However, the holistic method is something we should still consider today – how the structure of a space influences its design.

Renaissance: The Birth of Interiors

Fast forward to the Renaissance, an era that sparked a revolution in the way interiors were perceived. This was a time when art and beauty were highly valued, and this extended to living spaces.

This was when we began to see the emergence of individuals who were specifically focused on the aesthetics and functionality of interior spaces. They started to pay attention to the finer details – the drapes, the frescoes, the furniture. Though not yet recognised as a distinct profession, the role of enhancing interiors began to take shape.

Enter the Interior Decorators

It was not until the 18th and 19th centuries that the role of the interior decorator became more prominent. The catalyst? The increasing accessibility of global design influences and a burgeoning consumer culture.

We’re talking about the likes of Elsie de Wolfe, considered by many as the first professional interior decorator. She took the world by storm with her fresh, light, and antiques-filled approach. Following in her footsteps were Dorothy Draper and Sister Parish, who introduced bold colours and modernist aesthetics that challenged traditional norms.

Fig. 1: 1st Dibs (2016) [photograph] Sister Parish.
Fig. 2: Architectural Digest (1999) [photograph] Elsie de Wolfe.
Fig. 3: Dorothy Draper (n.d.) [photograph] Dorothy Draper.

With everyone wanting the latest chaise from Paris, these decorators were in vogue. Wealthy patrons would often employ artisans and craftsmen to create custom interiors that reflected their status and swanky tastes.

Hello, Interior Designers

As we move into the 20th century, the term ‘interior designer’ started making the rounds. This period saw a shift towards a more formalized approach to interior design – it wasn’t just about making a room look pretty; it was about making it feel right. Thanks to movements like Modernism and the Arts and Crafts, interior designers start thinking not just about aesthetic appeal but also functionality, ergonomics, and even psychological aspects of living spaces.

Fig. 4: Billy Baldwin Studio (2000) [photograph] Billy Baldwin.
Fig. 5: Interior Scions (2023) [photograph] David Nightingale Hicks.

Pioneers like Billy Baldwin and David Hicks brought forward a more structured and practical approach to design, blending aesthetics with functionality. Their work laid the foundation for modern interior design as we know it.

Interior Designers Now

Zoom to our world today, interior designers are professionals with specific education, training, and often, certification. Their work encompasses a broad range of activities from conceptual development and space planning to overseeing the construction and furnishing of a space. The rise of technology, sustainability concerns, and changing lifestyles continuously shape the role and responsibilities of the interior designer.

Think of figures like Kelly Wearstler and Philippe Starck, who continue to push the boundaries of design, integrating technology and sustainable practices, making our spaces not just chic but also smart and eco-friendly.

Fig. 6: Kelly Wearstler (n.d.) [photograph] Kelly Wearstler.
Fig. 7: Phillipe Starck (2017) [photograph] Philippe Starck.

So, from the ancient architects, the original all-in-one designers, to today’s specialized and dynamic interior designers, it’s been an interesting journey. It’s a story that mirrors the broader evolution of interior design itself – from functional spaces in ancient times to the highly personalized, technically sophisticated, and aesthetically diverse environments of today.

And that, my friends, is the story of how interior design pros have evolved. Until next time, keep your eyes peeled for those little design wonders around you!

JG x

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