Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Farah Kathwari. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Farah, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I have worked on recently is the restoration and renovation of a classic mid century home in Mamaroneck, NY. The moment I saw the first photo of the house, I fell in love, even though the house was in a bad state of disrepair and neglect. I decided I would buy the house, restore it to the original architect’s intentions, and add spaces to make the house practical for modern living.

Designed by American architect Kaneji Damoto and built in 1970, the house was inspired by Japanese motifs and style. The house is on one floor with wooden beams running across the ceiling and extending to the exterior. The living room ceiling was paneled in wood, and floor to ceiling windows that reached below floor level gives the sensation of floating.

When I found the house, the walls were damaged by water, the floor was covered in an unattractive tile, much of the wood was worn, the roof needed to be redone, and the mechanicals all updated. It was a huge project and I loved every minute of it! I was so inspired by Damoto and felt I would be setting things right by restoring this beauty.

A two and a half year renovation ensued. Working closely with my architects, contractors, I was there for every step and had my eye on each design decision. My weekly and then daily visits to the site while it was under renovation were the highlight of my day. Seeing the project evolve and take shape was the most creatively satisfying project I have undertaken thus far. I learned from this experience that I definitely prefer projects that include renovation – the bigger the better! I gained more confidence in trusting my instincts when it comes to design and architectural decisions.

The interior design decisions came naturally to me. When you have a house with distinctive architecture, the house tells you what it wants. As the house is set in a wooded area and cantilevered over a stream, it is an integral part of the nature and the interiors had to blend and complement the natural setting, not compete. Thus a color palette of sand, gold, and green with accents of black (and yes, one pop of red!) was the obvious choice. Carpets in Persian designs brought color and pattern and anchored the large spaces. My collection of art and decorative objects fit seamlessly into the house, telling a story of global heritage and travel.

From beginning to end, the restoration and renovation of this Damoto house was a journey of self discovery and self expression and took my creativity to a new level that continues to inspire me and search for the next great diamond in the rough.

Farah, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I grew up in a family that has been in the design world for generations – designing and selling carpets, fabrics, furniture, decorative objects, and jewelry. I always had an interest in interior design, re arranging my room as a child frequently and once in a while, restyling the china cabinet, when my parents let me. I did study at Parsons School of Design and the New York School of Interior Design, but most of my knowledge and training came from working with great mentors.

I specialize in interior design and renovations, working with architects and contractors to see a project from idea to finished space. My clients come to me because they know I am easy to work with, creative, and that I will design to their style and favorite furnishings and art. I love working with the beautiful things that a client already has – finding a new home for pieces, or highlighting them in a way that gives them new life. I love working with color and pattern and mixing genres, historical periods and provenance. I do not deliver cookie-cutter design and this sets me apart.

I value my relationships with my clients and feel lucky to have wonderful clients who share their homes and lives with and allow me to be a part of creating their happy, good energy home.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Seeing the joy and peace on my client’s faces when they see the end result!

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I have had to pivot many times! From studying fine arts to then pursuing a PhD in history, then back to interior design, then to applying to the Foreign Service (and getting accepted!) then becoming a mother and focusing on my baby, then opening a boutique, to getting active on the local community level, to being a covid-19 contact tracer and then returning to my interior design business – I have pivoted so many times. The one constant is that whatever I pivoted to, I really wanted to do at the time, and it was meaningful to me, and I did my best. The trick is to always be moving towards things that one is good at naturally and to work hard.

Somehow I believe that all of my education and various work experiences all come together in my life as a designer. It is all about people, family, culture, and good energy at home at the end of the day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.farahkathwaridesign.com
• Instagram: @farahkathwaridesign

Image Credits

Living Room Image: Adam Macchia