Talk Shop: Bennett Leifer // Bennett Leifer Interiors
Photo by Bjorn Wallander
ABOUT BENNETT
Bennett Leifer Interiors is an award-winning studio known for blending sophisticated color palettes, historical references and whimsical concepts to design uniquely tailored interiors. The firm creates livable, elegant and artful designs which have grown to include private residences, model residences, collaborations with developers, executive suites and brand campaigns.
The firm’s Principal, Bennett Leifer, was exposed to fine art, architecture, and interior design at a young age. He pursued an education in Art History and Business at Skidmore College, which helped him develop both an artistic eye and a thorough understanding of the business side of design. Throughout his career, he has worked on projects of all sizes, scopes, and styles and has experience working on projects globally. Following a decade of apprenticeship in the Interior Design industry, Bennett founded his New York-based firm in 2013.
Describe your style in three words or less:
Thoughtful, timeless and brave.
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
(1) Travel. I am constantly referencing my own travel photos for inspiration. Specifically, places captured in time. (2) Experience. As a young designer, I would constantly say, “X would be so chic!” because I saw uniqueness as a quantifier of great design. Sometimes I would be right… but other times it would be a disaster. Looking back on my previous experiences has helped me develop a love of traditional aesthetics. (3) My clients. I learn something new on every project—or at the very least am challenged to experiment with an element of design out of my comfort zone.
How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:
Back in 2013, I was offered three nice-sized interior design projects directly, within a short period of time. I worked up the courage to start my own firm and forged ahead! My favorite thing about what I do is making an impact on people’s lives. I always keep in mind that my clients are trusting me to set the stage for everything that will happen in their homes for years to come. A joyful reaction to what has been created at the end of the project is incredibly meaningful to me.
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
Every designer I have ever worked for is a mentor, whether they know it or not. I am like a sponge with knowledge and experience. There are so many things I do and don’t do based on the incredible career opportunities I was afforded prior to starting my own firm.
What does your home say about you:
My home says, “I am elegant, thoughtful, welcoming, and peaceful.” I would love it if the message translates to people’s impression of me ☺
Where do you find inspiration:
EVERYWHERE. Most recently in history. I have been diving into the mathematics of specific architectural detailing… especially with the current renovation of my 1825 house.
Who are your style icons:
Jeanne Lanvin, Paul Newman, and Clark Gable.
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
(1) Flexibility. I want everyone to feel relaxed and welcome. I give an arrival time window and then start my own ‘run of show’ at a safe time after. (2) Fun. I like to have an activity. If kids are coming, some sort of cute gift that everyone can interact with. For an upcoming party, we are having a tarot card reader for cocktail hour. (3) Preparation. I like to have everything clean and ready by the time people arrive. This is a particularly delicate dance with planning a menu that can be either pre-plated or sit in the warming drawer without compromising the quality.
Do you collect anything:
Bulldog figurines, small porcelain dishes and my own oil paintings.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration (please include links):
@1stdibs, @hamishbowles, and @houseandgardenuk.
What design “rule” do you always follow, and which is made to be broken:
‘Measure twice, cut once.’ The thought of me only measuring twice is laughable ☺
What are you working on right now:
Completion of my own home in CT, a 3-story PH in NYC, a historic townhouse in NYC, a 1925 renovation in CT, and a new construction project in Mexico.
Wardrobe staples:
Saint Laurent Slim Fit Chinos, Nike Gore-Tex Road Runners, James Perse or Officine Generale T-Shirts, Thom Sweeney Cardigans, and long-sleeved polos.
Favorite fabric/wallpaper:
Dedar - Delicious Manners
Best interior advice you ever received:
Start with the end vision and work your way back.
Best career advice you ever received:
A good entrepreneur understands there will always be ups and downs. A great one adapts to them and perseveres.
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
Invest: Art, Finishes, Carpets, and Lighting (Envelope Materials).
Save: Secondary areas that I don’t personally frequent as often, i.e. Guest Rooms.
Your greatest extravagance:
My French Bulldog Norman. He brings me so much joy, he can have anything (I think) he wants.
Favorite places to shop for home:
My previous home (lol!). It feels like over the past few years, I have been doing a lot of moving and redesigning.
Most prized possession and why:
I’m shockingly not tethered to material things. Probably my bed (the full set-up) due to how much I value serenity and peace.
Your interiors motto:
‘A place for everything and everything in its place’
Your life motto:
‘A place for everything and everything in its place’
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
Design is timeless and personal. Don’t seek approval. Look for what brings you peace and comfort. The rest will fall into place. AND DON’T CONFINE YOURSELF TO BUZZWORDS!
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: Penne Arrabiata
Drink: Hendricks Negroni
Film: Great Expectations (1998)
Hotel: Il San Pietro di Positano
City: Rome
Bedding: Depends on the room. Frette or Matouk
Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): See above.
Playlist: My own ‘Amazing List’ on Apple Music. If I ever skip a song, it gets removed.
Weekend Activity: Going to my country house in Connecticut.
Design Book: It’s a little out-of-the-box, but I am so inspired by Ruth Marten’s “Fountains & Alligators.”