Meet the Kips Bay Designer: Olivia Williams
The Venice, California, designer conjures a bedroom suite at the Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York
Venice, California designer Olivia Williams is sought out by her clients for her inspired use of natural materials that she deftly formulates into inviting and timeless livable spaces. Her rooms reverberate with a potent mix of texture, elegant subtle color, decorative objects, and exceptional custom-made and sourced furniture.
Adding to the allure are pieces from dealers, galleries, and artists she discovers in her travels around the world, culling creative inspiration from global crafts and cultures.
What was the inspiration for your room at this year’s Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York?
“My inspiration draws on the experience of city living, and how people in cities like New York can create amazing living environments in small spaces and creatively configure their spaces to fit the needs of their life in a beautiful and stylish way.”
Please tell us about a significant piece that helps shape the mood of your space.
“The custom built in bed that can be opened up or closed off to create a room within the room, which speaks to the main inspiration for the space.”
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?
“We wanted to create an interesting and fun space that would pique people’s curiosity. It was also a question of how to make the room feel inviting and interesting. My approach to a project is always influenced by the site and the location. We love bridging innovative design with intelligence, function and fantasy, so what we are trying to do is a little bit of all of that.”
For designers who have participated in Kips Bay before, what does it mean to you to be back? If this is your first Kips Bay New York, what are you most looking forward to in the experience?
“We are excited for the new community of design enthusiasts and professionals we will be collaborating with and to explore what our team is capable of within a tight timeframe. It is special to put our efforts towards such a good cause, while doing what we love.”
What does it mean to you to be part of the 50th anniversary of Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York?
“It is a special privilege to be involved in the 50th anniversary of Kips Bay and be a part of this legacy. We are very grateful for the opportunity.”