D2 Interieurs may be physically based in Fairfield County, but its spirit reaches far beyond the Connecticut border. While all work is carefully tailored to suit each client, a love for European design and a mix of eclectic styles from around the world inform its distinct point of view.
The firm is helmed by award winning designer and D2 founder Denise Davies who infuses her business with an infectious joie de vivre. She is a whirlwind of creative energy, having recently expanded D2 Interieurs to include D2 Home, a unique décor line. Here at The Local Vault, we love her unique perspective fusing modern sophistication, timeless style and a dash of rock & roll attitude.
This month, as she shares her favorite pieces in our collection, we had a chance to catch up with her to learn how her childhood shaped her aesthetic perspective, what style she can’t get enough of, and why she looks to teens for inspiration.
Photo Credit: D2 Interieurs
TLV: How did the places you have lived (growing up in Miami, Italy in your 20s) impact your design aesthetic?
DD: I was hooked on design at an early age. I grew up in Miami where there is such a diverse culture. My childhood home was an art deco home on Miami Beach built in the 1920’s. It had original hand painted tile floors, wall frescos in the dining and lots of arches and tons of character.
My mom, an artist, renovated it and restored all the original details. My neighbor had a pink house (which is typical). Miami is such a mix of modern, old world and Latin and European influences and of course COLOR! My design is all about mixing these elements and using pops of color is thoughtful ways.
Living in Italy taught me how to mix the modern and the old world. The apartment I lived in was built in the 1700’s but the inside was completely modern and minimal. Everything there is about contradiction and that is what I try to convey in my design aesthetic. There are no rules!!
Photo Credit: D2 Interieurs
TLV: Who are your favorite Mid Century designers?
DD: One of the houses I am just finishing is an original 1960’s midcentury modern home built by a furniture designer who worked with Edward Wormley. I renovated the house and brought it back to its original bones but brought it into the 21st century.
I have always loved this period and have been studying it a lot over the past year. Milo Baughman is one of my favorites. I frequently use his furniture (and all the other masters) which just goes to show that great design is timeless.
Of course, there is Eero Saarinen, Jacobsen, Nelson, Karl Springer, Harvey Probber (I own one of his tufted modular sofas), Hans Wegner, and the master of metal work, Jean Prouve.
TLV: What are 3 favorite sources of inspiration?
DD:Travel is so important. Whether it be a day walking around NYC and taking pictures, Los Angeles (I just spent a week there), Miami (I frequently go there for buying trips), or Europe it is crucial as a designer and creative person to be inspired.
Magazines, museums, art shows and just getting out into the world and exploring.
I also find my teenage kids very inspiring. There is a whole new world out there to explore with them and I enjoy seeing it through their eyes.
Photo Credit: D2 Interieurs
TLV: What is the best piece of advice that has impacted your life as a designer?
DD: There are no rules!
Photo Credit: D2 Interieurs
TLV: You studied Business before getting into Interior Design. What advice would you give someone hoping to transition their careers into work they feel passionate about?
DD: The most important thing is to go and work for someone else whom you respect and admire and learn from them.
Photo Credit: D2 Interieurs
TLV: What current trend are you over? What current trend can you not get enough of?
DD: I think the days of matching lighting are over, ditto for matching furniture. A room should look well curated like its been there forever, not like the designer just left the building.
I can’t get enough of black. Every room should have at least one element that is black to ground it, mismatched cabinets – making the kitchen more of a living space, having less furniture in a room and letting the pieces stand on their own, muted palettes and Scandinavian design.
Photo Credit: D2 Interieurs
TLV: In addition to your work as an interior designer you also have a line of rugs, wallpaper, fabrics, and custom furniture in the works, D2 HOME. What can you tell us about the design inspiration behind your first collection?
DD: The main reason for creating my product line to be able to share the D2 love and share my style with people who either don’t need a full house design or to people who can’t necessarily afford a designer. I want great design to be accessible to everyone. My inspiration was the lack of interesting and viable products in the marketplace.
Photo Credit: D2 Interieurs
Thanks Denise!