Deep Dive in Design: Building a Legacy with Bunny Williams & Elizabeth Lawrence
Podcast Information:
- Title: Deep Dive in Design
- Host/Author: FREDERIC
- Episode: Building a Legacy with Bunny Williams & Elizabeth Lawrence
- Release Date: October 16, 2024
Introduction of Guests
In this compelling episode of Deep Dive in Design, host Emma Bazillion welcomes two luminaries of the design world: Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence. Bunny founded her esteemed design firm in 1988, renowned for its layered, classic, and soulful designs. In 2017, Elizabeth Lawrence joined the firm, becoming its first partner and contributing significantly to its evolution into Williams Lawrence in 2023. Their collaborative work seamlessly marries tradition with contemporary vision, celebrating clients' unique personalities and lifestyles.
Career Journeys
Bunny Williams shares her early inspiration for design, recounting a formative experience at age 16 during the launching of the Greenbrier Hotel, completed by the legendary designer Dorothy Draper. The extravagant design elements—emerald green walls, plaster palm tree pilasters, and black carpet with cabbage roses—ignited her passion for interior design. Despite her parents' initial preference for a liberal arts education, Bunny pursued her passion through a junior college interior design program, eventually interning and rising through the ranks of her own firm.
Elizabeth Lawrence echoes a similar journey of discovery. Initially exploring photography at the University of Richmond, Elizabeth transitioned to interior design after a heartfelt conversation with her mother. Encouraged to intern at Bunny Williams' firm, she embraced the opportunity, eventually becoming a key creative and business force within the company.
Partnership and Firm Evolution
The episode delves into the pivotal moment when Elizabeth was promoted to partner, a decision that underscored the firm's commitment to nurturing talent from within. Bunny reflects on her previous experience at Parrish Hadley, emphasizing the importance of retaining and empowering dedicated team members.
"Elizabeth is such a big part of this company in many, many ways, not only creatively, but business wise. She has an amazing vision." [04:44]
Elizabeth discusses the unique culture at Williams Lawrence, highlighting the trust and collaborative spirit that Bunny fosters.
"We have a great team. Bunny doesn't want to stand over someone while they're doing their work. She trusts them to do their work." [09:54]
Design Philosophy and Aesthetics
Bunny and Elizabeth articulate their complementary design aesthetics, rooted in a blend of youthful innovation and seasoned expertise. Bunny praises Elizabeth's vibrant use of color and her ability to infuse projects with contemporary flair, while Elizabeth values Bunny's encouragement to explore and push creative boundaries.
"I think having a young eye and a young approach to how people live is essential." [10:58]
They discuss their collective approach to design, which avoids cookie-cutter solutions in favor of unique, livable spaces that reflect each client's individuality.
"Our projects aren't the same. We like to mix things up a lot." [12:18]
Influence of Social Media on Design
A significant portion of the conversation addresses the impact of social media on the design industry. Bunny expresses concern over the reliance on platforms like Instagram for design inspiration, arguing that it can lead to a lack of originality and a superficial understanding of space.
"I think the creativity went down the tubes because when I was, you know, started out, we had magazines for sure, but you had to go look at things." [15:53]
In contrast, Elizabeth acknowledges the pervasive influence of social media among younger clients but emphasizes the importance of translating these inspirations into personalized, non-repetitive designs.
"They usually come around to, yeah, I don't want to copy someone else's. I want something that is unique." [19:42]
Client Relationships and Personalization
Bunny and Elizabeth discuss their approach to client interactions, particularly in deciphering and translating clients' inspirations into bespoke designs. They emphasize the importance of understanding the essence of what clients love about a particular style or image and integrating those elements thoughtfully.
"It's really about dissecting what they love about the photo." [19:25]
Elizabeth shares anecdotes about working with clients whose inspirations are scattered across various sources, illustrating their method of guiding clients to focus on their personal lifestyle and preferences to create a harmonious space.
"We couldn't figure out from this thing that they sent us of what their real direction was." [20:14]
Inspirations: English Decorating and Modern Design
The duo draws inspiration from English decorating traditions, appreciating the seamless integration of various eras and styles that inject personality and warmth into spaces. Bunny admires the English ability to blend antique pieces with modern art, creating environments that are both cozy and visually stimulating.
"What's better than a chintz chair and a Rothko?" [23:16]
They also value modern projects for their ability to serve as blank slates, allowing continual exploration and innovation without the constraints of a defined aesthetic.
"This is a blank slate. Where are we going with this? That's what keeps your adrenaline going." [25:15]
Gardening and Personal Projects
Elizabeth delves into her personal passion for gardening, which complements her design work. She discusses her journey from novice gardener to author of a garden book, Life in the Garden, highlighting how cultivating a personal space enhances her creative and professional life.
"It's about this home that I have created over 40 years." [26:29]
This personal project reflects her holistic approach to design, integrating indoor and outdoor spaces to create a cohesive and enduring home environment.
Legacy and Training in Design
Bunny emphasizes the importance of building a legacy by nurturing talent and maintaining a robust business infrastructure. She advises aspiring designers to educate themselves continuously by visiting auction houses, museums, and engaging with seasoned dealers to refine their eye for quality and authenticity.
"You have to see things to learn about good furniture." [29:35]
The conversation underscores the significance of creating a sustainable business model that supports creativity while ensuring operational excellence.
Making a House a Home: Comfort and Function
A recurring theme is the transformation of a house into a home through thoughtful design that prioritizes comfort and functionality. Bunny shares her personal philosophy of addressing practical needs—such as accessible drink tables—to enhance the livability of a space.
"These are the things that you think about that make people feel comfortable." [30:39]
Elizabeth adds that attention to detail, from seating arrangements to the placement of everyday items, ensures that the design serves the client's daily life seamlessly.
"Those details that really matter." [32:24]
Concluding Remarks
As the episode wraps up, Bunny and Elizabeth reflect on the collaborative journey that has shaped their firm into a beacon of timeless, personalized design. Their commitment to legacy, quality, and client-centered creativity positions Williams Lawrence as a dynamic force in the interior design landscape.
"I'm the luckiest person in the whole world when Elizabeth applied for her internship. So I am really, really blessed." [33:51]
With heartfelt gratitude, they express excitement for the future, emphasizing their dedication to evolving their business and continuing to inspire the next generation of designers.
Notable Quotes:
- "You have to go look at things, you have to hunt them out." – Bunny Williams [29:35]
- "If you don't perform, your reputation can be ruined in one job." – Bunny Williams [07:59]
- "We have highs and lows. If everything is too high or too low, then it's cookie cutter." – Bunny Williams [33:11]
This episode of Deep Dive in Design offers an enriching exploration of legacy-building, the balance between tradition and innovation, and the intricate dynamics of a successful design partnership. Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence provide invaluable insights into creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply functional and personalized, ensuring their enduring impact on the world of interior design.