The Chairish Podcast: Episode Summary
Title: From London to L.A.: Rita Koenig on Living Well Through Design
Host: Ana Brockway, Co-founder and President of Chairish Inc.
Guest: Rita Koenig, Renowned British Interior Designer
Release Date: August 4, 2025
Introduction
Ana Brockway welcomes Rita Koenig, a distinguished British interior designer celebrated internationally for her sophisticated and personalized design approach. With over two decades in the industry, Rita has garnered accolades including Architectural Digest’s AD100, Elle Decor's A-List, and Conde Nast House and Gardens Designer of the Year for 2024. Beyond her design practice, Rita contributes to major publications and leads the popular Create Academy course for aspiring designers.
Expanding to the United States
Balancing Transatlantic Operations
Rita discusses her recent expansion into the U.S. market, specifically opening a new office in Palm Beach. She attributes this move to the initiative of her senior team member who considered relocating to Florida due to personal reasons. Instead of losing a valuable team member, Rita facilitated the expansion, ensuring sustained business operations across both continents.
“It was really one of those moments where I just thought, I don't want to lose you.” [01:50]
Impact on Business
Rita reveals that approximately half of her business now operates in the U.S., with this number recently tipping into the majority. Having a trusted team member onsite has streamlined project management and client interactions, eliminating the logistical challenges of transatlantic coordination.
Residential vs. Commercial Design Approach
Unified Design Philosophy
When asked about the differences between residential and commercial projects, Rita emphasizes that her approach remains consistent, focusing on understanding each client's unique lifestyle and preferences. She notes that, traditionally, her design process is client-centric regardless of the project type.
“For every client, it's always a new approach. It's always a new family, a new personality, a new way of living.” [04:17]
Cultural Nuances
Rita observes subtle differences between British and American clients, particularly in their openness to vintage and antique pieces. She appreciates the American affinity for shopping and their willingness to collaborate with designers, contrasting it with the more gated nature of the British interior design industry.
The Art of Shopping and Antiques
Collaborative Shopping Trips
Rita highlights the importance of shopping trips with clients as a rapid way to gauge their tastes and preferences. These excursions foster a deeper understanding and create a narrative within the client's home through personally selected pieces.
“When you spend a day shopping with somebody, you learn so much about them.” [06:12]
Balancing Structure with Serendipity
While Rita starts her projects with a structured floor plan, she maintains flexibility to incorporate unique antique finds that may not initially fit the predefined list. This balance allows her to introduce unexpected elements that add character and depth to her designs.
“You have to be quite broad-minded in your search...and learn to grab them when you see them.” [14:37]
Journey into Interior Design
Early Career and Influences
Rita shares her beginnings in the industry, starting as a research assistant for Meredith Etherington Smith and later working under her mother, prominent decorator Nina Campbell. These experiences laid the foundation for her design expertise and hands-on approach.
Learning from Mistakes
An early project taught Rita the importance of collaborating with reliable builders. She recounts a challenging project with inexperienced builders, which ultimately taught her to trust her instincts and rely on proven partnerships.
“It makes all the difference.” [19:38]
Team and Project Management
Building a Trusted Network
Rita emphasizes the significance of having a core team of trusted professionals, especially when managing international projects. In the U.S., she frequently collaborates with Gil Schaeffer, ensuring consistency and quality across her projects.
“You only want to bring people that produce a high level of work.” [21:45]
Handling Complexity
Managing high-quality projects involves coordinating multiple trades and maintaining effective communication. Rita notes that having a cohesive project management team, like Grove in London, simplifies these complexities and enhances project outcomes.
Hospitality Design Insights
Designing for Functionality and Aesthetics
Rita discusses her work on the San Vicente Bungalows in Los Angeles, highlighting the unique challenges of designing hospitality spaces. Collaborating with Jeff Klein, she learned to balance creative ideas with practical solutions that accommodate high guest turnover and diverse usage scenarios.
“Making a boutique hotel that I would like to stay in...is so unnecessary for them to be depressing.” [24:05]
Creating Inviting Spaces
Her approach to hospitality design focuses on creating homey, functional spaces that guests can enjoy, such as innovative carriage rooms and intimate private areas. This strategy ensures that each space feels both luxurious and welcoming.
Favorite Shopping Destinations
London’s Hidden Gems
Rita shares her favorite antique hunting spots in London, including Pimlico Road, Church Street in St. John's Wood, and the Battersea Antiques Fair. These locations offer a rich variety of unique pieces that inspire her designs.
Exploring Maine and Beyond
In the U.S., she enjoys scouring antique shops in Maine, appreciating the local craftsmanship and diverse offerings that complement her design aesthetic.
Collaboration with Schumacher
Developing a Signature Collection
Rita recounts her collaboration with Schumacher to create a bespoke fabric collection. Drawing inspiration from her antique finds and personal tastes, she meticulously curated a mix of batik, paisley, and floral patterns that harmonize through color palettes.
“I sort of needed that, even though I'm sure it's not purchased in that way.” [29:09]
Seeing Her Vision Realized
Witnessing her designs being used by others brings Rita immense satisfaction, as she enjoys seeing her creative ideas come to life in various settings.
Upcoming Book and Personal Projects
"An Affair with the House"
Rita is set to release a book documenting her renovation of her Oxford Gardens flat, a project deeply personal as it coincided with significant life changes, including her separation and turning 50. The book will feature floor plans, before-and-after photos, and the emotional journey behind the transformation.
“It's been good to me...recording it felt like a good time.” [33:31]
Designing Her Sanctuary
The renovation project reflects Rita's desire to create a space that embodies her personal style and history, showcasing high ceilings, fireplaces, and a private garden entrance that enhances the home's charm and functionality.
Personal Preferences and Routines
Favorite Luxuries
Rita affectionately mentions her love for rose and violet creams as personal luxuries, although she humorously notes that they might not make ideal hostess gifts due to their scent preferences.
“I love rose and violet creams...they're so personal.” [39:59]
Travel Aspirations
Her travel bucket list includes Japan, Greece, Portugal, and Spain, each offering unique cultural and design inspirations. She appreciates the authentic and hospitable nature of these destinations, which aligns with her approach to living and decorating.
Quick Favorites (Lightning Round)
- Favorite City: London
- Favorite Cocktail: Either a No Gin Negroni or a Telefonino from the River Cafe.
- Favorite Restaurant: River Cafe in London
- Favorite Brand: Schumacher fabrics
- Favorite Home Fragrance: Bamford's cinnamon and clove scented candle
- Favorite Saturday Morning Ritual: Life coaching sessions accompanied by coffee, dressed on top half and in pajamas below.
Closing Thoughts
Ana Brockway wraps up the episode by thanking Rita Koenig for her insightful contributions and sharing aspects of her personal and professional journey. Rita reciprocates the gratitude, expressing her admiration for Chairish and enthusiasm for future collaborations.
Notable Quotes:
- “It's like cooking a lobster, just low heat.” – Rita Koenig [13:30]
- “There's nothing haunts you like the vintage that you didn't buy.” – Rita Koenig [15:41]
- “It makes all the difference.” – Rita Koenig [19:38]
- “You only want to bring people that produce a high level of work.” – Rita Koenig [21:45]
Conclusion
This episode of The Chairish Podcast offers an in-depth look into Rita Koenig's design philosophy, her seamless transition from London to Los Angeles, and her nuanced approach to both residential and commercial projects. From her passion for antiques to her strategic team management, listeners gain valuable insights into creating living spaces that are both luxurious and deeply personal.