The most prominent thing about David Brian Sanders Interior design studio in the heart of the Los Angeles design district is David Brian Sanders himself. It’s his warm and welcoming demeanour that gives the way. It feels as if you are catching up with an old friend. This is one of the reasons that the Atlanta native has become one of the most sought after interior designers in Los Angeles and placing himself on the interior map of the world. Despite his popularity and success with some of the most discerning members of the Hollywood elite, Sanders remains true to his southern roots.
Prior to founding David Brian Sanders Interiors in 1998, Sanders spent several years managing and re-branding the famed luxury linen purveyor Peacock Alley that was located in the Pacific Design Center. With a life-long interest in interior design and architecture, Sanders began taking on private interior design clients and within a few short months David realised he had found his true calling. Sanders holds a dual degree in sociology and psychology from The University of Miami and is also a trained chef. He is a graduate of the Peter Kumps School of Culinary Arts in New York City. Before moving to Los Angeles in 1995, Sanders was the executive corporate chef at the famed Flavors Restaurant in New York.
A true design enthusiast, Sanders describes his own personal style as classic modernism as he speaks to Gulf Times in an exclusive conversation.
Have you always been interested in design and architecture?
I have always been drawn to Art, Architecture and design since I was about 10 years old. I have an affinity for unique and unusual spaces.
What elements define your style? Where do you find inspiration?
I think the key elements that define my style are a tailored, serene and neutral palette, with structured minimalism. I find inspiration in my travels, in the books I read and in the people whom I come across in my life every single day.
Who is your favourite architect and why?
My favourite architect is Richard Neutra, as he was of Austrian – American descent, he is accredited for introducing the International Style into American Architecture and for developing the style of the California Modern into residential architecture. He seamlessly blended his works throughout Southern California, and beyond in to the natural topography of the environment in which he was working.
What do you think about Middle Eastern architecture is different from Western/European designs?
I think Middle Eastern architecture is the perfect blend of Western and European designs. I think it has the ability to make their older building look fresh and modern while maintaining the integrity of the pieces being renovated or newly built.
It is said that architecture is a never fading field, people will never stop building their houses, and this has been leading to the saturation of the market. Your take?
While that may be true, I don’t think you can ever have a saturated market, as new people are always entering the field, there are some older generation of designers and architects who are exiting the field. It’s an ever evolving cycle, and I welcome the fresh and new ideas that come with the younger generation.
Tell us about the recent favourite project that you worked on?
We recently worked on a project in Bel Air, CA that was a total tear down and re-build. The home was originally built in 1952, and we had the fortunate opportunity to work with an amazing repeat client, who gave us the freedom and creative collaboration to build their dream home.
What is a good way to use lights in your room? What is this important element that gives a roomy perspective to an even smaller room?
Lighting is the key element to any design of any room. Typically, one can use up-lighting to make rooms appear larger, or can focus the light on a specific piece of furniture to accentuate the brilliance of the design of the collective visons of the room.
Making space is the new ‘it’ thing. If a person has a low budget – then what is your advice, how can they use this budget in the most appropriate way? in the best way possible?
I am a firm believer that if you love something, and can’t yet afford it, wait! I often tell my clients never to fill their home with anything that they don’t truly LOVE, especially in smaller homes or spaces. Save for that extra special piece, IT WILL BE WORTH IT!!
