INTERVIEW WITH VIVIAN BAYLES OF VIVIAN BAYLES DESIGNS
Next up in our Designer Profile Series where our members share their own unique POV on all things design!
Design by Vivian Bayles Designs, LLC. Photography by Lindsay Brown
Design by Vivian Bayles Designs, LLC. Photography by Daniel Wang
What is your idea of a perfectly designed space?
A perfectly designed space is curated with items and style that reflects your personality and experiences. A space that tells a story about you.
What is your greatest extravagance when designing a project?
It is such a personal concept. Each project has its own extravagance. I love having something that the client cherishes dearly in the space and showcasing it. My most recent project displayed my client's brilliant collection of sculptures and pottery. It was his prized possession that needed a special place in the room. We incorporated custom shelving that allowed for each item to have its own place and stand out. That became the focal point and an extravagance in the space. Anyone that walked into the room now has a reflection of what is special to this client. Ultimately, telling a story of his travels and love for art.
What do you consider the most overrated design trend or rule?
I am not a big fan of matchy-matchy design. I believe it is important to harmonize and curate items that compliment each other, but not to the point that it looks like a showroom. I love having unconventional and striking items that reflect the client’s personality.
The last few years have been quite interesting in how our business has changed. What do you consider your greatest achievement in managing all this?
As a business owner I am always learning from each project. The pandemic forced me to reflect on the type of work I want to focus on and client relations. We have all lost and paused to give some thought to where and how we will move forward. I am blessed to have had that time to recognize how important it is to travel and be with family. During this time, I was able to pivot a bit and focus on designing Airbnb’s. This is a reflection on how much I love to share experiences and space with people. It has been an absolute blast designing and renovating a place that is available for others to enjoy.
Design by Vivian Bayles Designs, LLC. Photography by Lindsay Brown
Design by Vivian Bayles Design LLC. Photography by Lindsay Brown
If you were to die and come back as an object or space, what would it be?
A piece of art. I love all modern and abstract art.
What is your most treasured space or possession in your home?
The kitchen and dining area! The place where families gather and hearty meals are prepared. As a designer, I also love how different surfaces, textures, and finishes come together harmoniously in the kitchen. One of our favorite pieces in our home is our black marble dining table. We have enjoyed many amazing meals at this table and gathered to have great conversations. This table has been the centerpiece of our home and has been part of the messes and joys that come with a family. It certainly has stood the test of time.
What is your motto?
Be confident and always move forward.
What is your current state of mind?
Give! The willingness to serve others and think of them first is one of the best gifts of life. When you give, you have the capacity to create more.
What do you value most in your clients?
Openness to trying something new. Clients often want problems solved but some solutions require them to trust in the design process and try something new. It is when they lean into the process that makes the project runs smoothly. Ultimately, resulting in a happy client.
Who are your favorite artist, architect and designer?
One of my favorite architects is I. M. Pei. His ability to use geometric forms to create interesting spaces is brilliant. Currently, I am also really inspired by Pierre Yovanovitch, Kelly Wearstler, Alexander Mcqueen to name a few.
Vivian Bayles Designs is a boutique interior design firm based in New York City. The firm specializes in creating interiors that are aesthetically eclectic and timeless.
Vivian Bayles, the principal owner of the firm, has over 10 years of design experience and holds a Masters of Architecture. With her background in architecture, Vivian brings a unique experience to all her projects. Storytelling and empowering spaces are the cornerstones of all her designs.
As a designer, Vivian approaches every project with an innovative perspective while caring to showcase her clients' needs. Her designs reflect a good balance of modern and eclectic styles, a mixture of layering neutrals with an unexpected burst of color. She is inspired through her travels and learning about new cultures. Vivian works exceptionally hard to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary.
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