Q. What inspires you?
A. Anything beautiful. I am fortunate that I live in New York City and get to see interesting things and people every day—store windows, museums, Central Park, beautiful clothes, or textiles. Walking to work is a constant source of inspiration.
Q. How would you describe your design style?
A. I am traditional with a twist. I use a lot of color and a lot of layers, so your home feels like a home and not a hotel.
Q. How do you like to bring the outdoors inside and vice versa?
A. Bringing the outdoors in can be as simple as fresh-cut flowers. And for vice versa, it’s nice to have comfortable living spaces outside—comfortable outdoor seating with a lot of cozy pillows and patterned textiles.
Q. What are your favorite fresh-cut flowers?
A. Pink peonies.
Q. How can homeowners spruce up their homes for summer?
A.Take away some of the heavier elements, such as dark and heavy throws and throw pillows. Replace them with lighter and brighter throws throughout. Wicker trays are another way to add a lighter element. Also break out colored glasses for summer.
“I love to mix and match patterns,” Coral Harper says. “The key is to use various scales and shades. Everything does not have to be the exact same color. Use darker and lighter hues together, and don’t be afraid to throw in a splash of contrasting color! Mix it up!” |
Q. Do you have a favorite outdoor line?
A. I love Perennials fabrics. I use them indoors and outdoors all the time.
Q. What do you like to add to your front door or stoop/porch during the summer?
A. I think an easy way to switch up the seasons is by changing out your outdoor cushions and throw pillows. Custom slipcovers are also a great way to update the way a porch looks.
Q. What are some tips for entertaining outside?
A. Have fun with it and don’t stress. These are your friends after all. I think an easy way to create a beautiful tablescape is by making a table runner that works with your china. The easiest way to add color to a table is with fresh-cut flowers. And serve lots and lots of wine or a colorful signature cocktail.
Q. When hosting an outdoor dinner or party, what do you like to include on your table?
A. A colorful runner, fresh flowers, matching linen napkins, and always a party favor! You should thank people for making time to come to your party.
Q. What should every home have for summer?
A. A well-stocked bar, an open door, and a grill.