These Are the Young Designers Who Will Be Everywhere in 2020
Each year, House Beautiful searches the country for the most promising young designers, spotlighting those we think will shape the future of design as our Next Wave. From Nate Berkus to Victoria Hagan, the franchise's alumni have become some of the world's top design talents. So who's next?
Hailing from across the U.S., House Beautiful’s new class of Next Wavers are the 14 most promising up-and-comers in our industry right now—the creative talents we've pegged as the industry's future stars. Though their styles run the gamut, every single one is already pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a great designer.
“I have been reading every shelter magazine I could get my hands on since I was about 10,” says Sean Leffers.
“I love to see the complete picture,” says Marie Flanigan, “from the beginning to placing the final piece of art.”
“I think there is a freedom to the way I design spaces that untethers them from the pressure to be strictly beautiful,” Nozawa says. Another of her signatures? A dedication to sustainable materials.
When Matt and Heather French decided to build their own house, neither realized it would result in a dual career change. “We became stronger during the process, so I knew we were onto something,” says Heather.
“I try to create timeless interiors that layer color and pattern with a mix of fine antiques and one-of-a-kind pieces,” says Bosbyshell.
Hayslett loves devising unique solutions for her clients and working closely with a construction team to do so (“I love being in the middle of it,” she says).
“My style is deeply rooted in the feel of California,” says Hodges, “but every project has a unique story.”
Welch began by designing rooms for no more than the price of the furniture; now he's a recognizable TV designer.
While some design duos may be opposites who attract, Lathem Gordon (right) and Cate Dunning say they are, well, the opposite. “We’re like a Venn diagram that overlaps, with tiny, separate slivers on the sides,” laughs Gordon.
“Almost like an anthropologist, I learn everything I can about my clients, their families, and how they live,” says Allen.
For the past five years, Whitley Esteban has been behind the scenes at Roman and Williams, quietly shepherding the firm’s projects (including the highly anticipated British Art wing at the Met, opening this spring) as its managing director.
Before founding his firm and textile line in 2012, Anthony Gianacakos, a self-proclaimed “maximalist at heart,” went on a trip to Brazil, where he cemented his design ethos.
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