Design

Designer Ellen Hamilton Shares Her Valentine’s Day Wish List

The New York creative curates a selection of unique ideas that toe the line between romantic and rock 'n' roll

February 3, 2025

It’s hard to summarize the interiors conceived by New York designer Ellen Hamilton in just a few words. There’s the joyous home at Windsor she orchestrated in an exuberant riot of tropical shades and playful patterns, and the rustic-meets-refined Montana lodge that elevates cowboy culture to dynamic effect. She crafted a Tuscan-inspired dining room at the Galerie House of Art and Design in Sag Harbor, and a neutral envelope for a client’s thoughtfully curated collection inside one of Manhattan’s most storied buildings.

But no matter the location or the directive, her eclectic mix of thoughtfully selected art and furnishings is distinctly unique, something the designer says she cultivates from a personalized playlist she composes at the start of any project. So of course, when it comes to shopping for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, Hamilton’s suggestions are as inventive and unexpected as the rooms she conjures across the country and beyond. Here, a look at her romantic discoveries sure to garner affection from cultural connoisseurs of all stripes.

Slim Aarons, Monocled Miss, Estate Edition (German model Renata Boeck in 1960s New York) 1964. Photo: Courtesy of 1stDibs

Slim Aarons Photograph

“Every girl would love breakfast in bed. This photo by Slim Aarons is the next best to the real thing.”

Long silk Skyfall deshabille by Carine Gilson. Photo: Courtesy of Carine Gilson

Carine Gilson Robe

“This has Hollywood siren vibes. Remember Kim Basinger in L. A. Confidential?”

Large arrangement by Metaflora. Photo: Courtesy of Metaflora

Metaflora Arrangement

“Anything but red roses! These unexpected blooms would be very nice.”

Laurent-Perrier Cuvee Rose Brut. Photo: Courtesy of Laurent-Perrier

Set of six French crystal champagne glasses from The Old Champagne Glass Co. Photo: Courtesy of The Old Champagne Glass Co.

A Case of Champagne, Vintage Coupes, and Bucket

“Champagne is always a favorite, but why not do a case! Every Saturday in February can be Valentine’s Day. Just pair with something old and French to serve the champagne, and a memory of the past with a vintage champagne bucket.”

Art Deco ruby and diamond bracelet from James Robinson Inc. Photo: Courtesy of James Robinson Inc.

Art Deco bracelet from James Robinson Inc. Photo: Courtesy of James Robinson Inc.

Art Deco Diamond Bracelets

“While diamonds may or may not be a girl’s best friend, I could go for the full arm party of these Art Deco diamond bracelets from James Robinson. Think Daphne Guinness!”