Iconic
When discussing the concept of icons, the language quickly becomes heavy with words like “greatest”, “smartest”, “best and most.”
Whether the conversation is about cars, actors, or in this case, “Icons of Interior Design” the prerequisite maintains any candidate be universally representative of their genre—timeless, recognizable and supremely influential.
Lucky for us, there is a long list of people in our industry that meet those qualifications. Beginning with Elsie de Wolf, the first professional decorator, then Jean Michel Frank, the first modernist to be popular, as well as Albert Hadley, the “Dean of American Decorating. ” He introduced the idea of livable luxury. Add Sister Parrish to the list; the first decorator to offer a counterpoint to dark and heavy antiques in the well bred home.
The list is substantial and significant. What the list of design icons has in common is they each demonstrated individuality, authenticity and a new and distinctive point of view. Ironically, what they stood for that was once so arresting, is today revisited again and again, as “classic” lasting, perfectly acceptable iconic design.
What these and many design icons proved is there is no one acceptable design style. What you believe is right for you is right.
Today as we clamor to express ourselves with genuine authenticity, we can thank all the Icons of Design for the validation and confidence they have each given us, so that we can become our own lasting “Icons of Design.”