Malka Helft | Photo by Jolee Photography. Product photos courtesy of respective companies
White Plains-based interior designer Malka Helft draws upon her experience in the fashion industry to design high-end homes in the 914.
Background
I founded Think Chic Interiors in 2014, after a long career in New York’s fashion industry, having owned a company that represented Israeli fashion designers in the U.S. I carried over my deep love of scale, patterns, fabrics, and color. As a city girl, the move to the suburbs and the vast amount of space had created a curiosity towards interiors that led to a profession. Now, Think Chic Interiors has become a well-established firm in Westchester, designing spaces ranging from a single room to an entire home.
Design Philosophy
I have several themes that guide me through my design process. The first is that high-end interiors should and can be practical and durable by utilizing correct scale and materials. The second is that the perfect home design will synergize my personal aesthetic with that of the owner.
Inspiration
My design inspiration is a combination of past and present, a fusion between my love of Bauhaus architecture, modern art, and photography, with the more architecturally traditional Westchester landscape.
What Sets Her Apart as a Designer
I listen. I spend a very long time learning my clients in order to achieve their dream spaces.
Favorite Rooms to Design
I love designing living rooms and dining rooms. These two formal spaces are where homeowners are often willing to leave their comfort zones and be daring in their selections, like displaying a magnificent chandelier or hanging bold wallpaper.
Hottest Design Trends
Light, white, oak floors; rounded bouclé upholstery; floral prints; brass fixtures; greige-painted walls; dramatic marble walls; bold wallpaper.
Top Three Design Tips
- Never skimp on lighting, and if you think the light fixture may be too small, it probably is.
- An area rug should extend under your furniture and not just lie in the center of the room.
- Books show personality — do not forget to display them.
Favorite Types of Projects
I love working in homes that have a history the homeowners would love to preserve.
Go-To Home-Design Resources
Shelter Magazines
(other than Westchester Home)
- Elle Decor
- Veranda
- Architectural Digest
- House Beautiful
- Luxe Magazine
Instagram Feeds
- @kellywearstler
- @lonnymag
- @michellegersoninteriors
- @christopherpeacock
- @widellboschetti
- @edengallery
Westchester Shops/Showrooms
- Accessories: Current Home, Scarsdale
- Window Treatments: The Shade Store, Port Chester
- Flooring: Carpet World, Port Chester
- Tile: Sideli Tile & Stone, Dobbs Ferry
- Fresh Flowers: House of Flowers, Mamaroneck
CT Shops/Showrooms
- Schwartz Design Showroom, Stamford
- Waterworks, Greenwich
- Fayette Studio, Greenwich
NYC Shops/Showrooms
- abc carpet & home
- Gracious Home
- Flair Home Collection
- 1st Dibs Gallery
- MoMA store
Malka’s Fave Products
1. Rebecca Stern, Not Your Story, 60″ × 64″
Rebecca Stern Fine Art, Stamford
“Rebecca’s art is extraordinary and all made locally in her studio in Stamford. I love the emotions she is able to convey in her art and her ability to juxtapose several mediums in each creation effortlessly.”
2. Mara Grande Chandelier
Circa Lighting, Greenwich
“I love the grand yet clean feel of this chandelier. Its versatility allows it to work in both modern and transitional homes.”
3. L’Objet Malachite Dessert Plates
Current Home, Scarsdale
“Made of Limoges porcelain and earthenware with hand-gilded 24K gold, this dessert plate will wow any guest at your dinner table. Complete the look with Linea Pro five-piece flatware and The Chateau Flute by Baccarat.”
4. Artistic Tile Billie Ombre Grey Mosaic
Sideli Tile & Stone, Dobbs Ferry
“I love this glass ombre tile — it is thin and delicate, with a subtle shine and blue undertones.
5. Prestige Mills Deerfield III in Brass 81
Carpet World, Port Chester
“This is one of my favorite broadloom rugs. I have used it as a staircase runner and area rug. The subtle pattern works as a neutral and will blend well with all solids and most patterns in the room, adding just the right amount of glam.”
6. Couture Faux Fur Throw in Ivory Mink
Current Home, Scarsdale
“This is one of the softest throws I’ve purchased so far, thanks to the velvet liner and the high-end acrylic faux fur. This is the perfect accessory for any sofa or armchair.”
7. California Faucet Poetto Pull Down Faucet
Consolidated Plumbing Supply, Mount Vernon
“I love so many things about this faucet: the sleek, elongated look, the excellent craftsmanship, the matching soap dispenser and instant hot, and the many color options.”
