Luxe Red Awards Judge

Kathryn Ireland

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British-born, pre-eminent interior designer Kathryn M. Ireland is a true citizen of the world. From her “sympathetic restorations” of landmark architectural houses to extraordinary homes, Kathryn brings the attributes of grand European style and cool California chic to every project, conveying an easy elegant vibe. Beyond her eponymous line of textiles and furniture, Kathryn has collaborated with home furnishing brands including Grange, Scalamandre and C2 Paints. In 2014, she was named North American brand ambassador for European brand AGA Rangemaster. Kathryn is the author of six best-selling books, including her most recent, Kathryn At Home. She also develops and hosts design retreats and design bootcamps, where she offers her professional expertise and storied experiences to help others succeed in the design industry.

MEET KATHRYN:

I first fell in love with design: At the age of 3, when my parents took me to Egypt to see the Pyramids.

The last art exhibit I saw was: Lawrence Alma-Tadema at Leighton House, London. A genius colorist and inspiration for my upcoming fabric collection debuting in 2018.

Favorite heirloom in your home: My mother’s Italian marquetry commode, given to me as a wedding present. It belonged to my grandfather.

Favorite historic home: La Rotonda in Vicenza, Italy. For a year I lived in the next-door house. Every morning I’d open my bedroom window to this marvel.

Best advice you ever got as a designer: Joan Axelrod, my mentor, told me, “If you see it in Venice, leave it in Venice.” I wish I’d listened and not spend a fortune on storage!