What makes spaces extraordinary, memorable, and refined? The interior is a manifestation of the spirit of its age – its cultural values, prevailing technologies, social realities, taste, and aspirations. Its defined qualities, therefore, are constantly shifting. Every era is characterized by different values, expressed by those creating interiors in pursuit of realizing the idealized spaces of their own time. There were times when interiors were the self-expressions of their makers, and at others, expressions of political values.
Today, the best interiors are those which present the full expression and biography of those living in them. The three most substantial aspects of any successful interior today are: a curated-style selection of objects, a strong presence of handcraftsmanship, and the notion of storytelling. Interior designers have taken on the dual role of curators and poets in their quest to achieve interiors that are meaningful, interesting, personal, and inspiring. These are the values which inject interiors with soul and contemporary identity while giving people a sense of connection.
In the new series ‘Magical Spaces of the Past and Present,’ design historian and connoisseur Daniella Ohad will host 8 conversations with interior designers, historians, and scholars, exploring identities in the past and the present, while revealing what makes spaces quintessential and powerful.