DESIGNER DETAILS
KARA MANN
CHICAGO, IL
WWW.KARAMANN.COM
We sat down with Chicago-based interior designer, Kara Mann, to discover the importance of making authentic design choices based on personal style and not what's trending.
Bedroom designed by Kara Mann
Kara Mann
Founder and Creative Director of KARA MANN
What inspired your passion for interior design?
Finding my way to interiors was a long road with several diversions which all somehow helped shape my passion for interiors. I studied art, worked as a fashion and lifestyle stylist and always found myself attracted to beautiful architecture. I grew up in a home where design and decoration were celebrated. Looking back it was almost inevitable that I would find a career as an Interior Designer.
What are the most important decorative elements in your home?
My vintage copper dining room table because I searched for years to find the perfect table for my space. A Rick Owens chair that was given to me as a gift. An Alex Prager photograph that perfectly depicts my sister and I in our “rebel years”.
What are your three most important elements when designing a bedroom?
Quality Bedding. Intimate lighting. Ethereal palette.
Kitchen designed by Kara Mann
“Make design choices authentic to your personal style and not determined by trends.”
From your experience, what is the best decorating advice you can offer someone?
Make design choices authentic to your personal style and not determined by trends.
What upcoming projects are you looking forward to?
There’s so much to be excited about! I have a couple major hotel projects that I can’t wait to share, a home necessities brand I’ve been developing for the last 18 months and a few really special residential projects- it’s been a busy year!!!
What are your "Frette Favourites"?
I love the Doppio Ajour Sheet Set. They are an incredibly sumptuous cotton sateen and unbelievably cozy. I’ve always been a sucker for a good Hemstitch and this double one is total perfection.
Where do you go for design inspiration in New York?
To the streets! There’s no question that NY is a melting pot of… well, everything! Every neighborhood is so dense with artists, fashion, food, and culture. It all just unfolds one step after another.
What is your favourite book, magazine, or site related to design?
Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty always and forever and I usually have World of Interiors, AD Spain or Cultured nearby.
What is on your nightstand?
Fresh blooms, whichever Le Labo candle I bought last and Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook: The Essential Guide to Caring for Everything in Your Home. It’s just so good!
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