I adore the straightforward and elegant style of Brad Ford. Very much like the man himself, his rooms exude warmth and sophistication. I have been a big fan of his blog Design Therapy for quiet sometime, and had the pleasure of meeting Brad in New York this past April. Last week we had a chance to sit down, catch up and talk about blogs, Twitter, Facebook and social networking. Brad is one of the kindest gentlemen you will ever meet, not to mention he has taste and personality in spades. Enjoy the podcast.
How would you describe your personal style?
I would describe my style as warm, approachable, serene, casual, yet sophisticated.
What inspires your creativity and designs?
I’m from Arkansas originally and grew up surrounded by the most beautiful natural resources. I’ve always loved natural materials and organic forms, and I think that comes through in my work. I’m also heavily influenced by Scandinavian design: simple and uncomplicated, yet functional and stylish.
What is your most prized possession?
My dog Turbo. He’s a gentle giant …. he weighs almost 100 lbs and still likes to crawl up and sit in my lap.
What is the one thing in life you cannot live without?
I have two: Music and Movies! I’m absolutely passionate about music and always have to have something playing in the background. In addition, one of my favorite things to do is go to the movies on a Friday night. I can’t think of a better way to unwind from a hectic work week.
Who would you most like to collaborate with on a project?
I would love to have collaborated with the late Faye Jones. He was an architect from Arkansas who at one time had been an apprentice to Frank Lloyd Wright. He had a very organic aesthetic and worked with materials and traditional forms found locally in the Ozarks. His work was considered intimate rather than grandiose and he focused more on private homes and chapels rather than large scale projects.
What books are currently on your bedside table?
Right now I’m reading The Strain by Guillermo del Toro. It’s a modern take on vampires running rampant through New York City (yes…it’s fiction).
What is your favorite luxury in life?
Enjoying a delicious meal. Breakfast, lunch or dinner …. I love food!
What is your idea of earthly happiness?
Sitting on a big back porch overlooking a beautiful lake, sipping an icy cocktail with friends and family watching the sun gone down. I honestly can’t think of anything more perfect.
Past or present which designers have most influenced your style?
I’ve always admired the work of Poul Kjaerholm, Finn Juhl and George Nakashima. From the present, I’d have to say the design firm Shelton Mindel & Assoc. and Thad Hayes who had I the privilege of working with.
Who are your style icons?
I feel like they’re constantly changing. Currently, I’m super intrigued with Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch of the design firm Roman and Williams. They have amazing style and I’m always excited to see what they’re going to do next.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Making a living doing something I love.
Profile by Ronda Carman
14 Comments
what beautiful rooms..love them all. clean and bright.
Swoon! Love it all. Great interview. That southern accent it too cute.
I love happy accidents and accents too. Excited to see what Brad will do next while he makes a living doing something he loves.
pve
Another wonderful pod-cast Ronda… I loved listening to Brad – getting to know the man behind the blog!
Toma
True to self, unabashedly normal, personable, genteel demeanor and totally unaffected by success. Thanks for letting me know a few still exist!
Sounds like Brad is a great as the rooms he designs.
I, too, am a huge Brad fan! Even his answers were warm and elegant. Such a great designer and a fine person.
Ronda,
This is a great way to meet the many talented that we may not meet at all!
Great designer and wonderful work too!
Thanks
Bette
Haven't listened to podcast yet, but I've heard great things about Brad. My father studied under Faye Jones, and I sincerely wanted my first wedding to be in that lovely mountain-top chapel! So great to see this. Thanks and I can't wait to hear the podcast.
I am glad to see Brad being part of your blog. He is a very talented man and his work speaks for itself.
There is always so new an unique in his approach to design.
Thank you for this high light. What great work.
Ronda,
I have been following your blog for quite a while and yet, after hearing the PodCast with Brad Ford, I feel so connected now that I have heard that great southern accent. I love this new podcast format.
His designs are so inspirational! I love the crisp colors and clean lines.
Thanks everyone! Brad has a great eye and he is so nice…you can't help but become a fan!