Meet the Kips Bay Designer: Melanie Roy

The New York City designer crafts the hallway and bath at the 50th annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House

Bright living room with white furniture, glass coffee table, modern decor, large windows, and a cozy fireplace.
A Melanie Roy Design project in Bridgehampton. Photo: Courtesy of Melanie Roy Design

Renowned for her contemporary and glamorous high-end residential interiors, Melanie Roy creates elegant spaces that strike a perfect balance by combining a curated selection of art with a mix of collectible design and modern, custom, and vintage furniture.

Born and raised in New York City as the daughter of comedian Rodney Dangerfield, she transitioned into the world of interior design after a successful 15-year career in television, including 10 years at HBO as a producer. Following a stint with firm Cullman & Kravis, she founded Melanie Roy Design, which offers comprehensive interior design services in New York City, the Hamptons, and Palm Beach.

Woman sitting outdoors on a patio couch, facing the camera, with greenery in the background.
Melanie Roy. Photo: Courtesy of Melanie Roy Design

What was your inspiration for your room at this year’s Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York?

“My inspiration was to create a glamorous, organic ladies’ bath and adjacent passage.  I was drawn to the three-dimensional orchid tile from Artistic Tile and  French gold plumbing fixtures by Kohler. This brought light and an element of nature to my space.”

Modern living room with plush white chairs, a large woven table, floral centerpiece, upright bass, and a wall painting.
A music room in Sag Harbor by Melanie Roy Design. Photo: Courtesy of Melanie Roy Design

Please tell us about a significant piece that helps shape the mood of your spaces.

“For my spaces, I selected a John Procario light sculpture from Todd Merrill Studio.  This piece is from the Freeform series which has a delicate, fluid design and creates a sense of movement.”

How does your work for this Kips Bay project exemplify your style as a designer—or is it just the opposite, something you have always wanted to try as a designer but haven’t found the client?

“My room at Kips Bay is an elevated extension of my work as a designer and the tile selection is something that I always wanted to use in one of my clients’ homes. ”

Modern bedroom with ocean view, featuring cozy chairs, large windows, a wooden ceiling, and stylish hanging lights.
A primary bedroom by Melanie Roy Design. Photo: Courtesy of Melanie Roy Design
Modern living room with contemporary art, round wooden table, gray chairs, and vases, overlooking a bright room.
A pool room by Melanie Roy Design in the Hamptons. Photo: Courtesy of Melanie Roy Design

What are you most looking forward to in the experience of working with Kips Bay?  

“I am most looking forward to being part of this incredible experience with such a prestigious group of designers.  It means a lot to me to be selected and a part of this important cause.”    

Modern living room with beige sofas, round wood tables, large windows, view of a garden and pool, and decorative pillows.
A living room and music room by Melanie Roy Design in Sag Harbor. Photo: Courtesy of Melanie Roy Design

What does it mean to you to be part of the 50th anniversary of Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York?  

“I am truly honored to be a part of the show house, and being that it’s the 50th Anniversary takes it to a whole new level.”