An Interview with International Interior Designer Alex Papachristidis

Introducing Interior Designer Alex Papachristidis

I was very fortunate to have a long conversation recently with a the very talented Interior Designer Alex Papachristidis

Alex also sent me his book "The Age of Elegance" which I cannot recommend  highly enough.

It is filled with page after page of the most sumptuous rooms!
Please enjoy images below of some special projects including The Kips Bay Showhouse.

1)     Alex please tell us about your early years and your beginnings in good taste.

  I understand your childhood was not only quite interesting; it was an international adventure as well.

I had an amazing young life. My Mother believed in new style education, I was not left with nannies. I experienced seeing the world, foreign films, fine dining. One year we went to Greece for the summer and ended up staying for two years!

We went to Paris and Venice to visit museums and galleries.

2)    How did these experiences influence you and your career decisions?

I was influenced by style, sensibility, an understanding different cultures. I never thought of being a designer and so went into the family business; shipping. Then I understood how important is is to do something you are passionate about.

3)    Did you take classes early on in design or go to a school of interior design?

A friend told me that I always had great taste one day and I had an epiphany.  I immediately enrolled in the Parsons School of Design for classes. 

When I think back as a child I had collections of small scale houses which I styled. Friends and family gave me Steif Figures that I dressed for the homes; so I suppose there was a prediction to design.

4)  How would you describe your design style? A client has probably seen or heard of your work when you get a call to take on a project!

     Traditional with a fresh touch. I like to see a juxtaposition of the new and old! My friends and family have had me design their homes. Stay open and life has a way of bringing great experience and knowledge one's way!

5)    Whether you are working on a residential or commercial design; in what ways is the connection with your client important?

    We have a very special relationship and become close. I like to be very personal and am not technology oriented, though it is taking over. I stay in a good mood, respect my clients. There is a process of understanding each other and building a personal rapport.

     Have fun! I feel it is a privilege to have this experience and want it to be their home and to enjoy every room. I help them build collections and artwork. It is a balance.

6)    Who are some iconic interior designers that you admire and respect?

The great Renzo Mongiardino, see his work in "Roomscape" He was the Interior Designer for The Hotel Particular in Paris, Renzo was the designer in the 1960's for Stanislas and Lee Radziwill's home in Oxfordshire, England, and many more great projects as both Architect and Interior Designer.

     Georges Geoffrey, who designed for Gloria Guiness, the Rothchild's and more. The cultured Mona von Bismark, one of the best dressed and most influential woman of her time!

7)  Your new book is named “The Age of Elegance”, in which the Forward is written by the esteemed Mario Buatto. Alex how do you apply that description to your personal and design aesthetic?

    I am somewhat "old school", I am very aware of the architecture which sets the tone. I want to create a place of beauty, even in my own homes which I share with my partner Scott. 

    There has to be variety, every room a visual feast. I combine my love of 18th Century antiques with contemporary art. I am very detail oriented and stay open to new directions. All is luxurious (not necessarily expensive) and tasteful.

8)    Alex, you are also a designer who is featured in Ronda Rice Carmen’s “Designers At Home, Personal Reflections on Stylish Living” Your apartment on the Upper East Side, where you live with your partner Scott is luxurious, sumptuous and artful to the nth degree. I absolutely loved what I saw!  Comments?

     Ronda and I know each other through mutual friends. She has written about me on her site, so when she asked me to participate,I did not hesitate. Our apartment is a beautiful place to live and work in. (an understatement I believe)

9) Alex, what words of wisdom would you impart to the beginning interior designer?

    I tell young people to think of hobbies they like and how that can apply in choosing a career. Do what you are passionate about! 

      Work with a designer you admire to gain experience, be an intern. You will get a sense of scale and have great exposure. Study the classics, go to antique shops, go go museums. See the best there is. Study the best and most  luxurious fabrics and furniture lines.

    Build great relationships with all of your vendors. It is so important; I have worked with the same vendors for over 20 years. Be a great Problem Solver; as they will arise and you will be remembered for resolving the issue.

 Alex thank you so much for participating in The 2013 Designer Series. You have  given us a great insight into your life, your work, and your inspired design aesthetic!

Alex has a line of incredible handmade ceramic lamps designed for Christoper Spitzmiller Inc. and a lush line of Langhorne Carpets; the next may be a fine fabric collection. 

I hope you will purchase his design book for your own book collection, You will have hours of enjoyment perusing page after page. "The Age of Elegance"  Simply click on the link! You may also contact Alex through his design site  Alex Papachristidis Interiors

Readers please leave a comment for Alex; I know it will mean a great deal to him!

Thank you for supporting the arts in every form and genre. The arts make the world a more beautiful place.

xoxo

Karena

Art by Karena

The winner of The Enchanted Home Giveaway is....Betsy at Coastal Colors!

Congratulations and thank you Tina for sponsoring this Giveaway for the  Summer Hostess!