A conversation with Thomas Pheasant

Internationally renowned designer Thomas Pheasant has been a staple in the industry for decades, having started his studio in 1980. Through his interior design projects and furniture collections, he continues to establish himself as a man of quality. Heavily influenced by classical architecture, he brings a clean, modern aesthetic to his designs that happily marry elegance and comfort. Among his travels and ongoing projects, we were fortunate enough to chat with this award-winning designer to learn what drives his designs and inspires his work.


Photography courtesy of Baker

1 If you could shadow any designer for a day, who would it be?
Thomas Pheasant I would love to go back in time and shadow Jacque Quinet. His mid-century work in France has always inspired me. I would love to see the affect he had on others as he revealed his new designs. It was a very exciting time in Paris for this new direction in furniture.

2 Where do you look for an obscure source of inspiration?
TP Obviously, I find a lot of inspiration in classical architecture as I travel. But I have found inspiration in everything from tree bark to weathered plaster. On a recent trip to Venice, I was taken by the silvery patina of old plaster walls in a church designed by Palladio. These weathered grey walls and columns inspired the “platinum” color I used for fabrics in my new Baker collection.

3 Favourite restaurant?
TP In DC it is Nora’s, the first organic restaurant in my home city. In New York, it has to be Per Se. Thomas Keller is a true artist.

4 What’s your favourite room to decorate?
TP A library. It is a chance to capture the client’s interests and create a personal space that is warm and inviting.