Meryl Santopietro is the principal designer and founder of Meryl Santopietro, based in New York City, since 2007. Meryl delivers unique designs by listening to the unique lifestyles of her many clients. Her portfolio includes traditional classic interiors, as well as modern and contemporary styles. Meryl holds qualifications in fine art, an advanced art history qualification from the University of California at Berkeley, and a certificate from the Rhode Island School of Design. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Meryl Santopietro.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
My design style and lifestyle is the beauty of simplicity. I believe things can be minimal but glamorous. My mantra "less is more" drives me to a personal aesthetic that is always about living quietly within beautiful surroundings. Luxurious textiles, sumptuous carpets, sculptural lighting forms and spare, lean, comfortable, functional furniture.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
My creative process when starting a new project is simply to be centered on my client’s vision. Listening to my client is the most critical tool that I employ. Their vision fuels my creative aesthetic. My passion for design combined with their vision creates the interiors they couldn't have imagined possible. That's why they hire me, I transfer their dreams into reality.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
The most creative person that I have ever worked with and for was a long standing client of many years. She has multiple residences spanning the globe from Asia to Europe and within the US. Her incredibly fearless approach to design is what inspires me. In our collaborations, we eliminate design constraints and embrace the challenges that her residences present with their often exotic locations.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
When looking for inspiration, I don't have to go any further than finding a quiet place to sit and close my eyes. With closed eyes, I envision the space and allow it to speak to me. Being quiet, having a mind clear of any preconceived thoughts is what really allows the creative forces in my brain to open up. Once that process beings to take shape I am able to see colors, forms and objects that ignite that vision.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I have arrived at where I am today by having the courage to be passionate and driven about the quality of design that I deliver to my clients. Always taking responsibility for the outcome. I have learned to be solution driven. I represent a personal service business, and as such, we must have shared interests with our clients.
