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Your Manhattan apartment feels cramped, your Brooklyn brownstone lacks personality, and that SoHo loft remains stubbornly bland despite your Pinterest boards. Finding the right New York interior designers can transform these spaces into homes that actually reflect your lifestyle.
The city’s design scene moves fast. Between boutique design firms in Chelsea and luxury residential design specialists on the Upper East Side, options overwhelm even seasoned New Yorkers.
This guide cuts through the noise. You’ll discover how Manhattan’s top decorators approach small space solutions, what Brooklyn’s residential design services actually cost, and which NYC apartment styling experts deliver results worth their fees.
We’ll explore everything from contemporary living spaces in Tribeca to custom furniture design services that work within New York’s unique constraints. Plus, you’ll learn to spot the difference between home staging professionals and true design consultation experts.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which interior decorating approach fits your space, budget, and timeline.
The Best New York Interior Designers
Roman and Williams
Roman and Williams is a 2002 multidisciplinary design studio founded by Stephen Alesch and Robin Standefer in New York. The firm specializes in hospitality, residential, and commercial design with 20+ years experience.
Design Specialization
Hospitality design, residential architecture, commercial interiors, custom furniture
Focus on hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, homes, and product design
Notable NYC Projects
- Tin Building, Boom Boom Room, NoMad
- Le Coucou, La Mercerie, Ace Hotel Brooklyn
- Royalton Hotel lobby renovation
- Viceroy Hotel on 57th Street
Design Philosophy
Story-driven spaces rooted in modern craftsmanship and history
People-centered design where narrative matters as much as objects
Recognition & Credentials
- 2014 National Design Award for Interior Design
- Architectural Digest Top 100 recurring presence
- Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business (2016)
Project Types
Luxury hotels, Manhattan penthouses, Brooklyn developments, high-end restaurants, cultural institutions
Kelly Wearstler
Kelly Wearstler founded her design firm in mid-1990s, now leading global brand with 50+ creative professionals. Los Angeles-based studio serves high-end residential, commercial, retail and hospitality spaces.
Design Specialization
Luxury hospitality design, high-end residential, commercial retail
Provocative concepts through materiality, color, contemporary-vintage juxtaposition
Notable NYC Projects
- Santa Monica Proper, Austin Proper, Downtown LA Proper
- Bergdorf Goodman restaurant
- Celebrity clients: Gwen Stefani, Cameron Diaz
Design Philosophy
History and modernity coexist through imagination and discipline
Honors history, location, architecture while pushing boundaries
Recognition & Credentials
- Architectural Digest Hall of Fame and AD100
- Elle Décor A-List, Wallpaper Top 20 Designers
- First interior designer to teach MasterClass
Project Types
Luxury hotels, private residences, boutique retail, restaurant design, digital partnerships
Nate Berkus
Nate Berkus established his award-winning firm at age 24 with Partner Lauren Buxbaum Gordon. Maintains offices in Chicago, New York, Los Angeles with 25+ years experience.
Design Specialization
Luxury residential design, celebrity homes, television production
Philosophy: homes should tell your story through timeless, personal interiors
Notable NYC Projects
- Manhattan penthouse combination
- West Village Brownstone project
- Current Manhattan residence (featured in Architectural Digest)
Design Philosophy
Authenticity, approachability, storytelling create worldwide following
Best interiors evolve over time and feel deeply personal
Recognition & Credentials
- Interior Design Magazine Hall of Fame
- Albert Hadley Lifetime Achievement Award
- Regular on Oprah Winfrey Show
Project Types
Celebrity residences, luxury penthouses, townhouse renovations, hospitality projects
Studio Sofield
Studio Sofield founded 1996 by William Sofield, employs 35+ designers across architecture, engineering, industrial, interior, graphic, landscape design disciplines.
Design Specialization
Luxury residential architecture, high-end retail, hospitality projects
Holistic approach: design must live as well as it looks
Notable NYC Projects
- Beckford Tower and House (Upper East Side, 21-31 stories)
- 111 West 57th Street (ultra-thin supertall skyscraper)
- Historic preservation projects
Design Philosophy
Materials and details respond to context, function, client personality
Luxury equals soul of spaces, responsive to place and history
Recognition & Credentials
- Princeton University architecture degree
- 2010 Cooper Hewitt National Design Award
- Rock star status in NYC interior design
Project Types
Supertall residential towers, luxury retail boutiques, private residences for cultural icons, historic preservation
Ryan Korban
Ryan Korban graduated from The New School in New York, self-trained designer and co-owner of Edon Manor boutique. Specializes in Downtown NYC and fashion industry clients.
Design Specialization
Retail design with luxury focus
Aesthetic combines luxury, old-world romance, urban cool (sex, romance, fantasy)
Notable NYC Projects
- Balenciaga New York flagship
- Alexander Wang Manhattan apartment
- 40 Bleecker Street (61-unit luxury building)
Design Philosophy
“New neutral” palette: grey ranges from blue to black
Mixes brutalism with romanticism as signature style
Recognition & Credentials
- Youngest in Architectural Digest AD100
- Featured: Vogue, Wall Street Journal, New York Times
- Published in W, Harper’s Bazaar
Project Types
Fashion flagship stores, luxury residential developments, celebrity penthouses, high-end retail
David Kleinberg
David Kleinberg Design Associates founded 1997 after 16-year tenure at Parish-Hadley Design. Employs 20 professionals serving sophisticated, discerning international clientele.
Design Specialization
Luxury residential renovation, high-end apartments, architectural interiors
Clean-lined, sophisticated aesthetic attuned to client lifestyle
Notable NYC Projects
- Art-filled Manhattan pied-à-terre (near Met Museum)
- Large-scale renovation projects
- International residential commissions
Design Philosophy
Repeat clients seeking different approaches drives evolution
Home environments must support work, relaxation, and calm
Recognition & Credentials
- Interior Design Magazine Hall of Fame
- Albert Hadley Lifetime Achievement Award
- Architectural Digest AD100 since 2012, Elle Décor A-List since 2011
Project Types
Prewar Manhattan apartments, international residential, luxury penthouses, architectural renovations
Workstead
Workstead founded 2009 by Stefanie Brechbuehler, Robert Highsmith, Ryan Mahoney. Brooklyn-based with 15+ professionals, AD100 global design leader.
Design Specialization
Building and interiors connecting to history and landscape
Human-centered approach across architectural, interior, lighting, furniture design
Notable NYC Projects
- One Prospect Park West (first residential commission)
- Boerum Hill Brooklyn brownstone renovation
- TriBeCa loft in turn-of-century building
Design Philosophy
Projects possess empathy, functionality beyond expectations
Responsible, context-driven works creating sense of place
Recognition & Credentials
- AD100 global design leader
- Award-winning multidisciplinary firm since 2009
- Comprehensive vision with exacting detail
Project Types
Boutique hotels, luxury residential buildings, historic renovations, hospitality (Wythe Hotel Williamsburg, The Dewberry)
Vicente Wolf
Vicente Wolf is Cuban-born designer based in Manhattan, head of Vicente Wolf Associates with 40+ years at industry top. Operates from spacious light-filled NYC loft headquarters.
Design Specialization
Clear, restrained, elegant aesthetic incorporating global artifacts
Minimalism (especially High-tech) though rejects minimalism label
Notable NYC Projects
- L’Impero and Alto restaurants
- Manhattan House penthouses (200 East 66th Street)
- VW Home Manhattan store
Design Philosophy
Authentic globally-sourced artifacts with modern decor in warm palette
Travel-inspired design creating timeless, charismatic environments
Recognition & Credentials
- Interior Design Magazine Hall of Fame
- AD100, Elle Décor A-List, House Beautiful Top 10
- PhD Design & Architecture, Boston Architectural College
Project Types
Hotels (Lorien Hotel & Spa, Luxe Rodeo Drive), private residences, restaurants, furniture design for Ralph Pucci
Jamie Drake
Jamie Drake graduated from Parsons School of Design in 1978, establishing his firm 2 days out of school. AD100 Hall of Fame member with 40+ years creating bold, exuberant interiors for sophisticated clientele.
Design Specialization
Bold modernist luxury, celebrity residences, commercial interiors
Fearless use of color with fashion-conscious sensibility and contemporary comfort
Notable NYC Projects
- Gracie Mansion renovation for Mayor Bloomberg
- Manhattan penthouses and expansive estates
- NYC City Hall and Marriage Bureau redesign
- State-of-the-art medical facilities
Design Philosophy
Creates glamorous, eloquent spaces uniquely tailored to each client
Blends traditional elements with contemporary approach for timeless sophistication
Recognition & Credentials
- AD100 Hall of Fame
- Interior Design Magazine Hall of Fame
- Elle Decor A-List, Fashion Group International Night of Stars Award
Project Types
Cosmopolitan penthouses, oceanfront estates, private foundations, luxury product collections (carpets, furniture, lighting)
Jeffrey Bilhuber
Jeffrey Bilhuber established his Manhattan-based firm specializing in residential and commercial design with American traditionalism approach. Known for sophisticated color usage and timeless American aesthetic.
Design Specialization
American traditionalism with sophisticated color palettes
Residential design, hospitality projects, furniture collections
Notable NYC Projects
- Manhattan townhouses and apartments
- Boutique hotel projects
- Upper East Side residential commissions
Design Philosophy
American design rooted in tradition with contemporary sensibility
Emphasis on comfort, sophistication, and livable luxury
Recognition & Credentials
- Architectural Digest AD100 member
- Elle Decor A-List designer
- Published in major shelter magazines
Project Types
Traditional residences, boutique hotels, furniture design, luxury apartments
Gachot Studios
Gachot Studios founded by Christine Gachot and Michael Gachot specializes in hospitality and residential design. Brooklyn-based firm known for creating narrative-driven spaces with attention to craftsmanship details.
Design Specialization
Hospitality design, residential interiors, restaurant concepts
Narrative-driven approach with artisan craftsmanship focus
Notable NYC Projects
- Brooklyn and Manhattan restaurant projects
- Boutique hotel interiors
- Residential loft conversions
Design Philosophy
Spaces should tell stories through materials and craftsmanship
Balance between modern sensibility and traditional techniques
Recognition & Credentials
- Featured in Architectural Digest, Wallpaper Magazine
- Hospitality design award recipients
- International project portfolio
Project Types
Boutique hotels, restaurants, residential projects, artisan collaborations
Miles Redd
Miles Redd established his New York firm specializing in bold, colorful interiors mixing traditional and contemporary elements. Known for fearless use of pattern and color in sophisticated residential projects.
Design Specialization
Bold traditional design with contemporary mixing
High-end residential, pattern and color expertise
Notable NYC Projects
- Manhattan townhouses and apartments
- Upper East Side luxury residences
- Celebrity and high-profile client homes
Design Philosophy
Fearless mixing of patterns, periods, and bold color combinations
Traditional foundation with contemporary confidence
Recognition & Credentials
- Architectural Digest AD100 member
- Elle Decor A-List designer
- House Beautiful award recipient
Brad Ford
Brad Ford established his New York firm in 1998 after graduating from Fashion Institute of Technology with interior design degree. Originally from Arkansas, he moved to Manhattan in 1992 developing spare, modern aesthetic with warm soul.
Design Specialization
Spare modern aesthetic with warm soul, residential focus
Clean lines, simple well-crafted furnishings, attention to texture and highest quality materials
Notable NYC Projects
- West Village townhouse (five-story gut renovation)
- Manhattan residential projects
- FAIR showroom at New York Design Center
Design Philosophy
Balance, light, space, color factor into every design creating timeless effect
Environments complement client lifestyle whether formal, casual, traditional, or modern
Recognition & Credentials
- Featured as “10 New Designers to Watch” in New York Spaces and New York Magazine
- Named America’s Top Young Designer by House Beautiful and Traditional Home
- Trained under Thad Hayes and late Jed Johnson
Project Types
Residential spaces, luxury apartments, townhouse renovations, Field+Supply arts fair creation
Commune Design
Commune Design founded 2004 in Los Angeles by Roman Alonso, and Steven Johanknecht. Los Angeles-based studio with reputation for holistic work across architecture, interior, graphic, product design.
Design Specialization
Architecture, interior, graphic, product design
Eclectic assemblages working harmoniously with surroundings, paying homage to historical and international design
Notable NYC Projects
- Ace Hotel projects (multiple locations)
- Various hospitality and residential commissions
- Graphic and branding concepts for fashion, arts, entertainment
Design Philosophy
Authentic creativity and innovation come from collaboration
Environmental sympathies expressed through conscientious material selection
Recognition & Credentials
- Cooper Hewitt National Design Award
- AD100 list several years
- Wallpaper Design Magazine awards
Project Types
Hospitality projects (Ace Hotels), residential, commercial, graphic branding for fashion and entertainment industries
Katie Ridder
Katie Ridder is New York City-based interior designer married to architect Peter Pennoyer. Began career at House & Garden, later decorating editor at House Beautiful before establishing successful design practice.
Design Specialization
Bold patterns and colors mixing old with new
Traditional meets eclectic approach, fearless use of pattern and texture
Notable NYC Projects
- Lower 5th Avenue triplex
- Manhattan apartments and penthouses
- Modern coastal Maine house
- Westchester and Bridgehampton ground-up projects
Design Philosophy
Creates joyful, warm environments through color and pattern combinations
Goal to make rooms unstudied, loose, but interesting and pleasure to be in
Recognition & Credentials
- House Beautiful Top 100, Elle Decor A-List
- Published in Architectural Digest, New York Times, Town & Country
- Author of books “Rooms” (2011) and “More Rooms”
Project Types
Traditional residences, luxury apartments, country houses, wallpaper and fabric design (Holland & Sherry)
Tom Scheerer
Tom Scheerer has been practicing architectural and interior design in Manhattan since 1985 after graduating from Cooper Union with architecture degree. Known for clear, logical architectural solutions combined with beautiful, comfortable furnishings.
Design Specialization
Architectural and interior design, residential focus with commercial projects
Clear architectural solutions with beautiful, comfortable furnishings creating sunny, light-filled spaces
Notable NYC Projects
- Upper East Side apartment renovations
- Manhattan penthouses and townhouses
- Park Avenue area residential projects
- Commercial and retail spaces
Design Philosophy
Work characterized by lightness, simplicity, and focus creating effortless, timeless environments
Emphasis on furniture planning, spatial relationships, harmony between color and texture
Recognition & Credentials
- Elle Decor A-List, Architectural Digest AD100
- New York Times recognition as “one of true American greats”
- Published author: “Tom Scheerer Decorates,” “More Decorating,” “Still Decorating”
Project Types
Residential apartments, country houses, commercial spaces, historic restorations in Bahamas, East Hampton projects
Aero Studios
Aero Studios founded 1992 by Thomas O’Brien in New York’s SoHo neighborhood. Combined design studio with vintage furniture gallery and home store under one roof, celebrating modernism translated into warm, livable style.
Design Specialization
Modern American design, vintage modern aesthetic, warm livable modernism
Interior design, product design, retail development, residential and commercial projects
Notable NYC Projects
- SoHo flagship store and studio
- Greenwich Lane residential complex (10-building campus)
- Private residences and commercial properties
- Retail brand store development
Design Philosophy
Translating modernism into warm, livable style through collected vintage elegance
Mixing traditional and modern, casual and elegant, city and country elements
Recognition & Credentials
- Architectural Digest AD100 regular inclusion
- Featured in Elle Decor, House Beautiful, New York Times, Veranda
- Cooper Union graduate, former Polo Ralph Lauren design team
Project Types
Modern residences, retail brand stores, product design collections, vintage furniture curation, hospitality projects
Bunny Williams Inc.
Bunny Williams (now Williams Lawrence with partner Elizabeth Lawrence) worked 22 years at Parish-Hadley before establishing firm. Over 50 years experience shaping elegant, inviting interiors with garden-inspired approach.
Design Specialization
Traditional American design with international influences, garden-inspired interiors
Comfortable, livable luxury mixing grand with simple, ornate with plain, old with new
Notable NYC Projects
- Upper East Side apartment designs
- Manhattan traditional residences
- Country house projects nationwide
- Treillage Ltd. garden shop (with John Rosselli)
Design Philosophy
Creates timeless interiors through “The Mix” – pieces work together because they’re different
Designs furniture for lifetime, not moment, with unique shapes and lasting quality
Recognition & Credentials
- Interior Design Hall of Fame, House Beautiful Giants of Design
- Elle Decor A-List, multiple design awards
- Author of multiple design and garden books
Project Types
Traditional luxury residences, country estates, garden-inspired interiors, furniture collections (Bunny Williams Home), lifestyle design
FAQ on New York Interior Designers
How much do New York interior designers charge?
Manhattan interior designers typically charge $150-$500 per hour or 20-35% markup on furnishings.
Luxury residential design firms like David Kleinberg Design Associates command premium rates. High-end designers often require $50K+ minimum budgets for full-service projects.
What’s the difference between interior designers and decorators in NYC?
Interior designers handle architectural renovation and space planning with formal training.
Decorators focus on furnishings, color consultation, and styling. Many top NYC firms like Roman and Williams offer both services under comprehensive design practices.
How do I find the best interior designer in New York?
Start with Architectural Digest AD100 and Elle Decor A-List designers.
Check portfolios on platforms like 1stDibs and Houzz. Interview 3-5 designers, review past projects, and ensure style alignment with your vision and budget.
Do New York interior designers work outside Manhattan?
Yes, most established firms work throughout the tri-state area including Brooklyn, Westchester, Hamptons, and Connecticut.
Designers like Nate Berkus and Vicente Wolf Associates handle projects nationwide. Travel fees typically apply for locations beyond metropolitan area.
What services do NYC interior design firms offer?
Full-service firms provide space planning, architectural coordination, custom furniture design, art curation, and project management.
Additional services include lighting design, color consultation, home staging, and procurement. Many offer furniture collections and lifestyle products.
How long does an interior design project take in New York?
Residential projects typically require 6-18 months depending on scope and complexity.
Manhattan apartment renovations average 8-12 months. Custom furniture and architectural elements extend timelines. Luxury projects often take 2+ years from conception to completion.
What design styles are popular with New York interior designers?
Contemporary luxury dominates Manhattan while Brooklyn favors industrial modern and warm modernism.
Traditional American design remains popular in Upper East Side. Mixed styles combining vintage and modern elements characterize work by top designers.
Do I need an interior designer for a small NYC apartment?
Small spaces benefit significantly from professional space planning and custom storage solutions.
NYC designers specialize in maximizing functionality in compact layouts. Even studio apartments can be transformed through expert design consultation and furniture selection.
What credentials should New York interior designers have?
Look for ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) or IIDA certification.
Top designers often have degrees from Parsons School of Design, Fashion Institute of Technology, or New York School of Interior Design. Professional memberships indicate industry commitment.
How do NYC interior designers handle budgets and purchasing?
Most use markup systems on furniture and materials, typically 20-35% over wholesale costs.
Some offer flat fees or hourly rates with cost-plus arrangements. Transparent pricing discussions upfront prevent budget surprises during project execution.
Conclusion
New York interior designers represent the pinnacle of American design excellence, combining decades of experience with innovative approaches to residential and commercial spaces. From established firms like Cullman & Kravis to emerging talents, the city’s design community continues shaping how we live and work.
These luxury residential design specialists understand Manhattan’s unique challenges. Small space solutions, custom millwork, and architectural renovation expertise set NYC designers apart from their counterparts nationwide.
Whether you’re seeking contemporary home decorating in Brooklyn or traditional elegance on the Upper East Side, the right designer transforms your vision into reality. The investment in professional interior design consultation pays dividends through increased property values and enhanced daily living experiences.
The design process requires collaboration between client and designer. Trust your instincts when selecting from the Interior Design Society membership or ASID-certified professionals featured throughout Manhattan’s design district.
Your home deserves the attention these talented professionals provide. Start your design journey with confidence, knowing NYC’s finest interior decorators bring both creativity and practical expertise to every project.
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