British design met American creativity at our latest Design, Directed lunch, held in the beautiful private room at Le Veau d’Or. The New York restaurant’s soft pink walls were the backdrop for a gathering that celebrated connection — not through panels or pitches, but through the simple magic of delicious food and fun conversation.
This time, the table was filled with a delightful mix of interior designers, not just from New York but from across the US. Over tasty French fare (the frites!) and many a glass raised, Ruth Mottershead, creative director of Little Greene, spoke about the brand’s heritage and the joy that color can bring into our homes.
It was a perfect moment to see how British craft and sensibility resonate so strongly with an American audience. The lunch was a relaxed prelude to What’s New What’s Next at 200 Lex the following day — a chance to step away before the bustle, share stories, and enjoy the kind of conversations that remind us why design is as much about people as it is about products.
The conversation touched on everything from tariff anxieties to the evolving balance between hospitality and residential projects, before turning to color. Here, the mood was unanimous: designers are embracing shades that feel positive and reassuring. As Ruth from Little Greene explained, "the colors that are resonating right now are grounding and enriching. Deep, rich caramels are perfect for creating inviting spaces, whilst soft browns provide comfort and reflect the desire to create warmth within our homes."
It was a view shared around the table, with these hues seen as key to creating interiors that bring both joy and familiarity at a time when they are very much needed.
