Business of Home Podcast: Celebrating 50 Years of Design with Christine Van Der Hurd

Episode Title: The First Lady of Textiles: Celebrating 50 Years of Design with Christine Van Der Hurd
Release Date: July 7, 2025
Host: Dennis Scully
Guest: Christine Van Der Hurd, Founder of Vanderheerd

Introduction

In this landmark episode of the Business of Home Podcast, host Dennis Scully sits down with Christine Van Der Hurd, the esteemed founder of the iconic textile and rug studio, Vanderheerd. Celebrating half a century of exceptional design, Christine shares her remarkable journey, influential collaborations, and insights into the evolving interior design landscape.

Early Life and Education

Christine’s passion for textiles was ingrained early in her life. Growing up on a farm in Dorset, England, she was surrounded by fabrics and antiques, thanks to her family's antique business. Her mother was a skilled seamstress, fostering Christine’s love for patterns and the tactile experience of cloth.

“I was obsessed with patterns and actually the feel of cloth.”
[07:03] Christine Van Der Hurd

Pursuing her passion, Christine attended Winchester School of Art, where she specialized in printed fabrics. Her determination led her to battle against traditional academic expectations, advocating for her focus on printed textiles despite resistance from her head of department.

“I had a battle with her. And at the end of my first year, it took three months to convince her that I could do a print.”
[07:43] Christine Van Der Hurd

Moving to New York: A Life-Changing Decision

In January 1977, Christine's ambition took her to New York City with the initial goal of selling her designs. The city’s vibrant creative scene, populated by figures like Robert Mapplethorpe and Annie Leibovitz, captivated her.

“I fell in love with David and New York."
[02:31] Christine Van Der Hurd

During her trip, Christine veered off her professional path and met David Herd, her future husband, leading her to relocate permanently to New York five months later.

“We fell in love. And five months later I flew back to live.”
[11:10] Christine Van Der Hurd

Establishing Vanderheerd in New York

Upon settling in New York, Christine and David opened Eastbourne Galleries, focusing on art deco furniture and designer pieces. Their store became a hub for design legends, attracting designers like Bobby Metzger and fostering collaborations that would define Christine’s career.

“Bobby Metzger subsequently commissioned me to do some textile work with him.”
[16:07] Christine Van Der Hurd

In 1981, they launched Modern Age on Broadway, positioning themselves at the heart of New York’s design community. This store not only showcased vintage furniture but also became the breeding ground for Christine's bespoke carpet and textile designs.

“Opening Modern Age was the best thing we could have done.”
[18:43] Christine Van Der Hurd

Key Collaborations and Milestones

Christine’s collaboration with Angelo Dongia marked a significant milestone. Dongia's patronage led to large-scale commissions and established Christine as a sought-after textile designer. Her work for Henry Bendel’s flagship store and Limited's store planning projects further solidified her reputation.

“Working with Henry Bendel was a magical moment.”
[25:46] Christine Van Der Hurd

Additionally, Christine’s partnership with designers like Paul Fortune and Pentagram showcased her versatility and ability to adapt her designs to various architectural and aesthetic demands.

Evolution of Production: From Tufting to Hand-Knotted Carpets

Initially producing tufted carpets through collaborations with UK manufacturers, Christine faced challenges with limited sizes and durability issues. Seeking higher quality and bespoke solutions, she transitioned to hand-knotted carpets by establishing manufacturing partnerships in India.

“Tufting was not something I loved. I wasn't in love with the texture of a tufted carpet.”
[31:19] Christine Van Der Hurd

This shift allowed for greater flexibility in design and quality, enabling Chapman to create intricate, high-knot-count carpets that became the hallmark of Vanderheerd’s offerings.

Transition to the UK and Adapting to a New Market

Following personal adversity, including the tragic loss of her son Jasper in 2009, Christine returned to the UK. Reacclimating to the English design scene, she forged new relationships with prominent UK designers like Jonathan Reed and Philippa Thorpe, re-establishing Vanderheerd’s presence in Europe.

“Coming back to England was like relearning all the different levels that you have to channel.”
[64:12] Christine Van Der Hurd

Current Business and Offerings

Today, Vanderheerd excels in bespoke interior projects, offering a range of services from custom carpets and textiles to hand embroidery and fabric sourcing. Christine emphasizes flexibility and client collaboration, ensuring each project is unique and tailored to specific design needs.

“Each client is given as much time... to make a beautiful interior.”
[53:23] Christine Van Der Hurd

Vanderheerd has expanded its expertise to include wall coverings and comprehensive interior consultations, integrating seamlessly into larger design teams.

Reflections on the Design Industry

Christine reflects on the evolution of the interior design industry, noting a shift towards quicker, less personalized solutions. She champions the importance of patience, detailed craftsmanship, and creating unique, layered interiors.

“People want to rush things too fast and that it... the look you've got to layer it.”
[50:56] Christine Van Der Hurd

She also discusses the impact of the AIDS crisis on the design community, lamenting the loss of talented designers and the lasting influence it has had on the industry.

Digital Printing vs. Traditional Techniques

While acknowledging the advancements in digital printing, Christine expresses a preference for traditional methods, valuing the tactile and aesthetic qualities of hand-crafted textiles.

“Do I love digital? No, but... digital has allowed us to achieve some great things.”
[67:26] Christine Van Der Hurd

She appreciates the versatility it brings but remains committed to maintaining the craftsmanship that defines Vanderheerd’s legacy.

Advice and Longevity in Design

Christine attributes her enduring success to tenacity, adaptability, and a deep commitment to listening to her clients. She encourages young designers to pursue their passions relentlessly and to embrace both tradition and innovation.

“You have to be brave and... follow your dream because that's what I've always done.”
[67:29] Christine Van Der Hurd

Her ability to evolve with the times while staying true to her core values has kept her work fresh and highly sought after.

Lifetime Achievement Award and Future Outlook

In 2024, House & Garden honored Christine with a lifetime achievement award, a testament to her influence and contributions to the textile and interior design industry. Christine remains passionate and optimistic about the future, eager to continue creating beautiful, bespoke designs.

“I love the people, the clients. I love being able to discuss things with them.”
[73:37] Christine Van Der Hurd

She views the award not as a capstone but as an affirmation of her ongoing commitment to excellence in design.

Conclusion

Christine Van Der Hurd’s 50-year journey is a testament to creativity, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the craft of textile and rug design. Her story inspires both seasoned professionals and aspiring designers, highlighting the importance of passion, adaptability, and personalized service in building a lasting legacy.

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