10 Questions With Founder, Deborah Rosenberg

Amangiri Hotel in Utah

How do you usually start your weekend?

I work out in the morning or take our dog Lucca for a long walk on the beach. He has the best time chasing the birds and running around like a maniac.

Which pieces of technology do you use to document design inspiration?

We use PowerPoint, Pinterest and Instagram.

The Japanese Society in New York City

What’s your go-to classic color choice?

I love all shades of White, Grays and blues. Although to me, nothing is "classic." It's all about what excites the client.

Is there a hotel that’s most inspired your work while traveling?

I respect and admire the architectural designs of the Aman hotels and resorts. The simplicity, natural feel, openness, elegance and sophistication is impeccable. The list of other hotels whose design I adore is endless. George V in Paris, Mamounia in Morocco, Mandarin in Bangkok are magnificent in their own right. However, if I had to choose one hotel group, it would be Aman Resorts.

Deborah's dog, Lucca

Where do you go to spot new style?

Traveling for me is the best way for me to see new styles and ignite my creativity. Visiting other places and countries is inspiring and humbling.

What’s your favorite small museum in the world?

The Japanese Society in New York

How do you keep it all together?

Each morning I give thanks . . . My children and all the ones I love are all healthy. We have lots of peace and love around us. I feel blessed. Plus, a piece of chocolate cake does wonders.

Design a garden: groomed or freestyle?

I like order. So my knee jerk reaction is to say "groomed." However, wild, free, unorganized greenery is also so beautiful and confusing in a good way.

Deborah's inspiration is cruelty free design

Deborah with her children

Do you have a favorite restaurant (for the design and the food, of course)?

There are so many beautiful restaurants worldwide. However, one of my favorite places doesn't even have a name. I was in Capri, Italy with my children and we found a place with a few tables on a cliff. The views were spectacular, the food was simple, delicious and served on old china. There were no menus. The tables were old and wooden and the owners, a husband and wife, cooked the pasta in a tiny makeshift kitchen in the corner. The best meal and one of the best memories with my children.

Who or what is your biggest design influence?

Healthy & Humane Design. Becoming aware about the atrocities that occur within the skins, fur and hides industry along with the lethal poisons that are used to tan the skins &  expose us to, have been the biggest influence over my career and personal life. It has changed me as a person and was a turning point for me. I will never go back to designing spaces made from animals. WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HEALTHY & HUMANE DESIGN? CLICK HERE