Interior Design Perspective: Elizabeth Law Design
Elizabeth Law is inspired by the world around her. A globetrotter at heart, she draws on her worldly experiences as well as her studies at Parsons School of Design in New York to create unique designs. Hear what she had to say about her interior design perspective.
Q: Not everything in a space has to be designer, but we all hope to have at least a few special pieces. What unique or custom elements of art/design do you think are worth buying?
I am always telling clients that it isn’t about who makes it, or a label or even how much it costs. It is always about being special, lasting and, when possible sustainable. Unique pieces are what make a place feel like a home in my opinion. Lighting is a go-to unique element and certainly worth buying. I also like to do custom seating where it’s appropriate because it is so specific physically to a person.
Q: As a professional interior designer, you play the role of visionary, curator, and project manager. What aspects make it challenging to find unique art/designs? What’s good and bad about the process of working with Creators on custom pieces?
Finding unique art and designs is an interesting topic to me because it is something I frequently discuss with clients and colleagues. These days, things tend to be replicated so quickly and then before you know it, they are everywhere being cranked out by the big companies. So, my challenge is finding something that isn’t going to be next week’s cookie cutter item. I love working directly with creators because we get to bounce ideas off each other and truly collaborate.
Q: How often do your clients request something unique or custom? What do they typically ask for and what are their criteria/priorities for bigger budget items or focal pieces? (ie. they want to buy local, made-to-order or sustainable goods)
I very frequently do custom designs, whether it is seating, a bed, lighting, tables. Clients historically trust what I’m trying to accomplish, so for me, it’s just making sure that custom is to the advantage of the client in being firstly functional when it should be, interesting and timeless. I try to buy local as often as possible which then turns into a real feeling of community amongst designers and artisans. Being based in LA there are so many incredible options.
Q: Does buying unique make a positive global impact? How do interior designers play a role?
Buying unique makes a positive global impact especially these days because people are so much more conscious of sustainability, and what lasts as well. When someone is hand making something with care, it tends to last a whole lot longer than something that is mass produced. Additionally I think that supporting local and small businesses is the direction we should all be focusing on in times like these.
Q: While they’re both creatives, Creators sometimes don’t understand the challenges of accomplishing projects as an Interior Designer. Do you have any advice for Creators (like painters or furniture designers) who’d love to connect and collaborate with designers like you?
My biggest hurdle with creatives and creators working together is managing expectations for the client. I just always really urge everyone to be as transparent as possible with everything in terms of time, execution etc.
Q: What are your top 3 favorite items or Creators you spotted on Wescover?
I love The Wooden Palate, I know those guys personally and we have worked together on many occasions. I love l’aviva home and Mt Washington Pottery as well!
