Designer Friday: An aspire Exclusive Interview With Vanessa Rome

Vanessa Rome is an award-winning interior designer based in New York City. She is passionate about creating unique and visually interesting spaces that reflect both functionality and a sense of relaxed unassuming luxury. Layered with textured fabrics, refined materials, calming palettes, and custom furniture sourced from all over the world, Vanessa offers her clients homes that are timeless. Vanessa leads a growing design team, but works closely with each client and project and is involved in every facet of the design process. She believes it is important to understand how a home will function and what is most meaningful to her clients in a particular space. Learn more about Vanessa Rome’s work in today’s Designer Friday.

Andrew Joseph: Describe your design style as if you were explaining it to someone who cannot see.
Vanessa Rome: A cool summer breeze.

Adorned with natural light, this bedroom is covered in warm and neutral-toned accents echoing the serene nature of the nearby beach.

AJ: If you could guest star on any TV show -on or off air- what show would you guest star in?
VR: The Voice. I get to stare at Blake and make wisecracks at the other judges.

AJ: What was your first job?
VR: While living in LA, I worked on a film called CANDYMAN.

AJ: How would you describe your personal style?
VR: Classic and simple.

A custom earth-toned Art and Loom fringe rug grounds this light and airy dining room. Suspended above is a cloud-like light fixture that bridges the elements of earth and sky.

AJ: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
VR: I’d love to design a quintessential Parisienne apartment, and if my client were a model, actor, or owned a gallery of collectible design that would be nice!

AJ: What are you most proud of?
VR: My ability to work hard and also be a very present mother in the lives of my children.

AJ: What are your beauty secrets?
VR: To remain as natural as possible. Limited alcohol, no drugs. Moderate sun exposure. I don’t hide under hats and umbrellas; but I try to limit my exposure. Everything in moderation!

This entryway is graced by the Butterfly Asteroid Mirror, a creation by David Nosanchuk, perched above the Twin Console by Charlotte Biltgen. This pairing makes for an unforgettable first impression and leaves a lasting imprint when departing.

AJ: What’s one ingredient you put in everything?
VR: Crushed red pepper.

AJ: Must-have clothing item everyone should have in their closet?
VR: Black leather pants and a crisp white button-down (not necessarily together)

AJ: Has there been a shift in what clients are requesting post-COVID?
VR: After sharing everything with everyone in your household for a few years, people want their spaces to be more defined with intentional uses, like designated home offices and media rooms.

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