This swooner was recently swooned to the max, by the queen of design chic: the one and only Kelly Wearstler. Getting an invitation into the impeccably appointed and layered home of this awe-inspiring woman was humbling, exciting, and downright FUN.
It was an eye-swooning version of a child’s Christmas morning. As my eyes fell upon design details in every corner, I experienced delicious visual overload—and yet I wanted more.
Kelly introduced me to her line of home and bar accessories, an extension of her overall aesthetic and brand, with a refined palette of black, white, brass, and marble, with gemstone details and a touch of playful whimsy. She has made basic, often mundane bar essentials into something entirely artful. From Kelly’s green marble-clad home bar, we created Cointreau’s refreshing classic lime rickey cocktail—and she shared the inspiration behind some of her favorite bar pieces.
I love to understand other people’s creative processes, and what unexpected sparks lead to their finished product. As we created the refreshing summer cocktail of cucumbers and mint I asked about 200 questions, all of which Kelly graciously answered for me (and you!).
Kelly’s design mission: to make a space clever and beautiful without sacrificing functionality. “Chic bar accessories make entertaining in style effortless.” For example, “adding a bejeweled bottle opener to the setup instantly elevates any spread.” The Liaison Collection, which includes objects adorned with bronze lips, are a favorite. “Everyone needs a kiss!” she says. Kelly and I are both inspired by artists who transform everyday objects into works of art and I’d argue she is one of those artists!
Kelly’s multitasking mastery ranges from hotel renovation to furniture design, jewelry and home accessories, all in a single day’s work. Talking design and style with her, and hearing about work in her office, where a cross-pollination of design disciplines are born—architecture informs jewelry design, a metal patina or vintage pendant spawns furniture hardware—I was inspired all over again.
Once comfortably down the rabbit hole of design, we realized we share another uniting factor: being grounded by family. We transitioned seamlessly into the joys of being mamas to fun-loving surfing boys. Kelly had me contemplating the call to all things California, with her invitation back to her Malibu abode with my boy. YES PLEASE!
Dive further into Kelly’s World on her swoon-worthy Instagram feed! and hop on over to ElleDecor.com to swoon further with me & Kelly.
