Deep Dive in Design: A Fresh Take on Tradition with Tom Shearer

Released January 8, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Deep Dive in Design, host Tori Malotte, Style Director at Frederick Magazine, welcomes esteemed American designer Tom Shearer. Known for his influential works and bestselling books More Decorating and Tom Shearer Decorates, Tom shares his journey, design philosophies, and insights into the evolving world of interior decorating.

Early Career and Beginnings in Interior Design

Tom Shearer's entry into the world of interior design was anything but conventional. Contrary to the common narrative of a lifelong passion, Tom discovered his calling later in life.

• Discovering His Path: Tom revealed, “[I had] no idea until I was 30 years old that I was going to be a decorator” (00:54). His initial foray was into architecture, a path he commenced at 25, enrolling in a five-year undergraduate architecture program at Cooper Union.

• Professional Experiences: Post-graduation, Tom worked under Sean Scully and had the opportunity to collaborate with renowned Italian architect Aldo Rossi during summers in Europe. However, the slow pace of architectural projects led him to pivot towards decorating.

Partnership with Jeffrey Billhuber

Tom’s collaboration with Jeffrey Billhuber marked the beginning of his decorating career.

• Formation of Bill Huber Inc.: Introduced by a mutual friend at the Bemelman's Bar, Tom and Jeffrey quickly decided to venture into decorating. Tom reminisced, “we decided Jeffrey didn't like his job much... we could be decorators” (01:30).

• Breakthrough Project: Their first significant project was the Southampton Summer Show House, which featured top decorators like Mark Hampton and Albert Hadley. The project garnered substantial media attention, including a three-page color spread in The New York Times Magazine, effectively launching their careers (02:49).

Transition to Solo Practice and Relocation

After several years of partnership, Tom chose to go solo, leading to a significant shift in his professional and personal life.

• Move to Charleston: Seeking new challenges, Tom moved to Charleston with aspirations of opening a concept retail store inspired by Barcelona’s Vinson. Despite not realizing his retail dreams, the move reignited his passion for decorating as client inquiries increased (04:56).

• Business Evolution: Recently, Tom has closed his New York office to embrace a virtual business model, allowing him to work remotely from his homes in Paris and the Bahamas. “I have just closed my office in New York... I’m going virtual” (05:51).

Design Philosophy and Style

Tom’s approach to design is deeply rooted in modernism, characterized by a preference for clean lines and minimalism.

• Self-Identification: “I think of myself as a decorator, not really a designer... I’m a modernist and I think I'm kind of a relaxed modernist” (08:46). This philosophy emphasizes simplicity and functionality over ornate detailing.

• Influences and Mimicry: While Tom acknowledges drawing inspiration from other designers like David Hicks and Billy Baldwin, he emphasizes reinterpretation over direct imitation. “I can always find a way into a smart design for any given place” (19:21).

• Notable Projects: One of Tom’s signature works is the reception room at the Lyford Key Club, renowned for its striking chocolate brown walls. Despite initial skepticism about the color choice, Tom explains his rationale: “[It was] the most neutral” and a way to highlight architectural elements like palm trees (12:18).

Insights into the Decorating Industry

Tom offers a candid perspective on current trends and challenges in the decorating industry.

• Against Bandwagons: “I haven't changed my pitch style... I haven't really changed my... It's my own bandwagon” (17:30). Tom prides himself on maintaining a consistent style amidst fluctuating trends.

• Market-Driven Challenges: He critiques the market’s influence on decorating, noting that an overemphasis on products from companies like Restoration Hardware can stifle individuality. “It takes a lot of the individuality out of it” (17:30).

• Social Media Impact: The prevalence of social media platforms has led to a homogenization of styles, making it challenging for decorators to maintain unique identities. Tom warns against over-reliance on widely available products to avoid a generic look (18:45).

Sources of Inspiration

Tom finds inspiration in various environments and emphasizes the importance of adapting designs to suit specific spaces.

• Adaptive Design: “It’s about the place itself and I can always find a way in” (19:21). Whether it’s a Tuscan villa or a high-rise apartment, Tom tailors his designs to the unique characteristics of each location.

• Preference for Tropics: Tom expresses a particular affinity for designing in tropical settings, appreciating the aesthetic and practical benefits. “I really do love working in the tropics... It’s sexy” (21:14).

Future Plans and Continued Creativity

Despite transitioning to a virtual business model, Tom remains actively engaged in creative endeavors.

• Upcoming Projects: He is currently working on his third book, which consolidates years of his work, and continues to manage projects remotely (22:37).

• Personal Pursuits: With a semi-retired lifestyle, Tom plans to dedicate more time to his properties in Paris and the Bahamas, seeking a balance between work and leisure (22:37).

Conclusion

Tom Shearer's journey from architecture to a celebrated decorating career underscores the importance of adaptability and personal passion in the design industry. His steadfast commitment to modernism, combined with a willingness to reinterpret classical influences, sets him apart in a market increasingly driven by fleeting trends. As he embraces a new chapter of remote work and creative exploration, Tom continues to inspire both seasoned designers and aspiring decorators alike.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Discovering Design: “Absolutely not. I had no idea until I was 30 years old that I was going to be a decorator.” (00:54)

• First Project Success: “We just kind of went for it. We had a couple of, we had a little bit of a leg up... It sent us on our way.” (02:30)

• Design Philosophy: “I think I'm called himself a relaxed modernist. I like modernism, but I don't take it... seriously.” (08:46)

• Addressing Market Trends: “Problem with decorating generally today is that it's very so, you know, product oriented.” (17:30)

• Inspiration in Tropics: “I really do love working in the tropics... It’s sexy.” (21:14)

Timestamps

• [00:54] Tom discusses discovering his passion for decorating.
• [02:30] The success of Tom and Jeffrey’s first show house.
• [05:51] Tom announces closing his New York office.
• [08:46] Tom describes his design philosophy.
• [12:18] Tom elaborates on the Lyford Key Club reception room.
• [17:30] Tom critiques current market-driven decorating trends.
• [19:21] Tom talks about finding inspiration from diverse spaces.
• [21:14] Tom expresses his love for working in tropical environments.
• [22:37] Tom shares his future plans and current projects.

Stay tuned for more insightful discussions with design industry leaders on upcoming episodes of Deep Dive in Design.