Inspiration Awaits: How Showrooms, Museums, Colleagues Inspire Interior Design
Inspiration is everywhere—you just have to know where to look. Whether strolling through a design showroom, visiting a museum, or watching the Oscars, I find ideas in the most unexpected places. As a top interior designer, I am always exploring new ways to bring luxury design into my projects.
Recently, I visited Bo Concepts, where modern furniture design was on full display. There I attended a very insightful panel of industry legends. I had the pleasure of meeting the founder of ArtSolutions and his lovely wife. At the Valcucine showroom, I’ve never seen so many beautiful cabinets in my life! The clean lines and innovative storage solutions reminded me how a well-designed space can be both functional and stunning. While there, I had the chance to meet with colleagues, exchanging ideas about how modern design continues to evolve. Conversations like these remind me how important it is to surround yourself with other creative minds—often, the best inspiration comes from collaboration.
A trip to The Getty Museum reinforced this idea in a different way. Seeing the depth of color and texture in paintings reminded me how essential these elements are in interior design. A textured wall or a bold accent color can transform a space just as brushstrokes bring a canvas to life. Art has a way of influencing the way we see interiors, encouraging us to experiment with materials, lighting, and composition.
Travel also has a way of shaping design inspiration. A dear friend of mine recently rode a camel in the desert and was so struck by the endless blue sky that he painted a door blue in his latest project. Similarly, I once walked through a historic Parisian courtyard, mesmerized by the patina of an aged bronze fountain—an experience that later influenced a custom lighting piece I designed.
Even unexpected places spark ideas. Watching the Oscars, I was captivated by the intricate beadwork and bold colors of the gowns—fashion and interiors share a language of balance and storytelling. At an AI art showroom, I explored how artificial intelligence in design can help visualize interior spaces before making a single change. And nothing elevates a small space quite like Gracie Wallpapers, where hand-painted wallpaper turns walls into works of art.
Luxury design is about thoughtful details, and showrooms like these are why Beverly Hills interior design remains at the forefront of innovation. I’ve had the honor of my work being featured in Architectural Digest, and I believe that staying open to new inspirations—whether in art, fashion, or technology—is what makes an interior truly exceptional.
No matter where you go, inspiration for interior design is always waiting—you just have to be open to it.
Donna Livingston