Lauren Wills launched Wills Design Associates nearly a decade ago in New York after working with industry icons like Penny Drue Baird and Jeffrey Bilhuber. After a stint at Ralph Lauren Home, she created her own firm and moved back to her hometown of Houston. With work featured everywhere from Domino to House Beautiful, her dynamic, artistic spaces are certainly garnering plenty of attention. Shop some of her Chairish faves for a touch of her style.
Shop Lauren’s Chairish Favorites >>>
What made you passionate about interior design? How’d you get your start in the field?
I have wanted to be an interior designer since I was little. Santa brought me a Barbie Dreamhouse for Christmas and it has been tunnel vision since. I majored in interior design at Pratt Institute, and cut my teeth in New York for years before venturing on my own in 2015.
What do you find most compelling about Chairish?
The breadth of styles and design. I have learned a lot about design just through shopping. The inspiration is endless.
How does sustainability factor into your design choices and love of vintage?
I like the idea that I’m giving an old piece a new life. We are a consumer society and if I can help in any way, great. It feels better to repurpose than buy all new.
What are three of your favorite pieces on Chairish now?
I love these Early 20th-Century Antique Blue City India Jodhpur Wood Panels; these Art Deco-Style Burl Side Tables; and this Pink Modular Togo Sofa.
Favorite way to create a statement-making moment in a room?
Incorporating different styles from all over. It creates a curated, lived-in look that I tailor to each client.
Do you have any go-to color palettes and color combos?
I love mint. It’s soothing and can be used in most settings. I usually start with neutrals and layer in color from there. Most of my projects are beach houses, so I’ve really embraced blues and greens.
What advice do you have for first-time clients about making their spaces truly personal?
Don’t pigeonhole yourself into trends. Design with things you love that make you happy. It’s your home and should reflect you.
Lead image: Tommy Agriodimas
