Inspiration & Tastemakers
Tastemaker Spotlight: Interior Designer CeCe Barfield
Through her achievements at Vogue and Bunny Williams, Interior Designer CeCe Barfield Thompson garnered a strong reputation, one that ultimately led to the launch of her own firm in 2015. Incorporating her love of antiques, while keeping her spaces modern and fresh, CeCe’s style is that of refinement. CeCe gave us the scoop on her go-to design finds and inspiration, as well as her top ArtStar picks.
Instagram Handle: @cecebarfieldthompson
Do you have any morning routines or rituals that help start your day?
CB: I always start my morning with a cup of coffee from a french press - an item I cannot live without.
What era are you inspired by?
What era are you inspired by?
CB: Interbellum France
Which paint colors are you obsessed with?
If you had to choose 3 words to describe your personal style what would they be?
Which paint colors are you obsessed with?
CB: Currently loving “Blanc de Roi”, the shade of white used by the French monarchy.
Your favorite decorating cheap thrill?
Your favorite decorating cheap thrill?
CB: Bouquets of fresh flowers from the local deli.
What is your favorite summer vacation spot? Where do you escape to in the winter?
CB: My family spends the summer months in Wainscott + Hot Springs, VA. In the winter, I love planning a long weekend to the Caribbean with girlfriends! Sunshine and fun with good friends is the ultimate cure for seasonal blues!
If you had to choose 3 words to describe your ideal client what would they be?
What is your favorite summer vacation spot? Where do you escape to in the winter?
CB: My family spends the summer months in Wainscott + Hot Springs, VA. In the winter, I love planning a long weekend to the Caribbean with girlfriends! Sunshine and fun with good friends is the ultimate cure for seasonal blues!
If you had to choose 3 words to describe your ideal client what would they be?
CB: Curious, engaged, and open!
If you had to choose 3 words to describe your personal style what would they be?
CB: Traditional, edited, approachable.
How has your taste in art changed over the years?
CB: I am an eternal student and my taste is constantly evolving. Currently, I am moving towards a more restrained palette that allows the lines and curves of the furniture to take center stage.
What are some tips to consider when selecting art for the home?
CB: The old saying is true: Buy what you love and you’ll always have a place for it.
What was the best gallery or museum show you saw in the last 3 months?
CB: The live restoration of Gainsborough’s “Blue Boy” at The Huntington.
What questions do you ask a client who wants a full design makeover? How does the process differ when the client wants to combine some of their existing pieces with new furniture or art?
CB: The process always starts with a conversation about how the client wants to live in their house. At the end of the day, no matter the style, design should support your best life. Form must follow function.
What is your favorite room of the house to design and why?
CB: The master bedroom - it is where you start and end your day. It sets the tone for everything.
You’re based in NYC - what is the best neighborhood to shop in? Do you have a favorite local coffee spot or place to meet a client for lunch?
How has your taste in art changed over the years?
CB: I am an eternal student and my taste is constantly evolving. Currently, I am moving towards a more restrained palette that allows the lines and curves of the furniture to take center stage.
What are some tips to consider when selecting art for the home?
CB: The old saying is true: Buy what you love and you’ll always have a place for it.
What was the best gallery or museum show you saw in the last 3 months?
CB: The live restoration of Gainsborough’s “Blue Boy” at The Huntington.
What questions do you ask a client who wants a full design makeover? How does the process differ when the client wants to combine some of their existing pieces with new furniture or art?
CB: The process always starts with a conversation about how the client wants to live in their house. At the end of the day, no matter the style, design should support your best life. Form must follow function.
What is your favorite room of the house to design and why?
CB: The master bedroom - it is where you start and end your day. It sets the tone for everything.
You’re based in NYC - what is the best neighborhood to shop in? Do you have a favorite local coffee spot or place to meet a client for lunch?
CB: Downtown - The Nix on University.
Uptown - Via Quadronno
What are your top 10 favorite artworks on ArtStar right now?
What are your top 10 favorite artworks on ArtStar right now?
