Fast-breaking news story: California decorator Michael S. Smith has been tapped as the Obamas’ choice for White House decorator.
Creds are all in order – celebrity clients, Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, blah blah – and he’s written a few books, but I especially love the fact that he studied decorative arts at the V&A. He’s the real deal, not some primo uomo with a zillion licensing agreements. (Although he certainly has those.)
As a bonus, he seems to have a sense of humor.
There’s an excellent interview with Domino Magazine’s Deborah Needleman on the Huffington Post. Best question from that interview:
Q: What happens if you design something for a client and it ends up looking like sh$%t?
A: You end up living with it for a long, long time.
Here are a few pictures of his work, all taken from his website. I’d describe his style as serene, but not unrealistic. People can live in these rooms…and let’s not forget that that should be the goal of interior design. You’re designing spaces for people to live in, not stage sets or furniture showrooms.
Nice going, Obamas.Word on the street is that he’s going to tackle Sasha and Malia‘s bedrooms soon. If you need help getting started, Michael, here are a few ideas. ;)
See the picture of the humble yellow bedroom above? Really think about this: what multi-million dollar designer would include that lovely, simple room in his portfolio? I like this guy. Designer photo by Sheila Metzner via WashingtonPost.com.