Designers Discuss Global Inspirations

During the WESTWEEK market held in Los Angeles last week, designers discussed how globalization has become a source of inspiration amongst designers. The design talk had a panel of notable designers including by NY-based designers Mario Buatta and Alexa Hampton as well as West Coast designers Timothy Corrigan, Thomas Beeton and Suzanne Tucker.

On the topic of American Classicism in Design, Hampton said, “I don’t think of it in a static sense, as of 20 years ago. Classic American design is something that is eternally beautiful that has been generated by Americans. We can do anything—build old villas or modern buildings.” Buatta, introduced his book, “Mario Buatta: Fifty Years of American Interior Decoration” and shared insights about the industry from his experience in the field.

On Thursday that week, Andrew Skurman, Andrea Rubelli and Roger Thomas discussed global design inspirations. According to Corrigan, his style is “European elegance with California sophisticated comfort casual, a synthesis of different cultures.” Corrigan cited that he gets his inspiration by traveling and learning about Greek, Roman, and Chinese culture and combine it with Californian aesthetics. Corrigan also said that technology has made it easier to develop designs in other countries. “In China and much of Southeast Asia, they are crazy about California design. They want nothing to do with their own culture.” According to the panelists, the use of Western brands are becoming a big deal in the merging countries within Asia. They also said that a lot of Chinese clients are on the lookout for American designers to achieve the Western style that they are aiming for.

“The Chinese prowl California designers and architects,” said Skurman. “Decrease your fees to get your feet wet in the international market.”