New York City & Palm Beach, Florida, davidlucido.com
David Lucido wonders if he may have been a sailor in a past life, but we wouldn’t be surprised if he turned out to be a descendant of Josef Albers — his color pairings are so pleasing there’s a sense of inevitability about them, and yet they require the kind of quiet confidence you rarely see in the interiors world. He’s also got an almost gothic sense of humor — in one kitchen he designed, a sculpture of two bare toes sits in the middle of the table while in another, a spooky doll hangs over the proceedings. Somehow, none of it feels kitsch and all of it feels extremely livable. 

What is American design to you, and what excites you about it?

American design is about having no boundaries. We can experiment, be bold or minimal, wild or restrained, reference our diverse backgrounds, and innovate. America and American design is about continuing to write our own story. The best designs are the ones that move the needle. 

What are your plans and highlights for the upcoming year?

In addition to a series of commercial projects, including a handful of new stores for Carolina Herrera, we are working on our first ground-up home on the Venetians Islands of Miami in conjunction with architect Marmol Radziner. Next year, I’m continuing to split my time between New York and Palm Beach, specifically West Palm which is quickly becoming a city on the rise. South Florida is seeing a wave of new developments, restaurants, galleries, and an influx of creative entrepreneurs. I’m looking forward to getting involved in the community, taking on new projects, and playing a small part in the city’s evolution. Finally, I have a three-week trip to Japan, which will be heavily design (and food) focused.

What inspires or informs your work in general? 

I’ve noticed that I am subconsciously inspired by all things maritime: portholes and circles, curved lines, rich woods, bulky hardware, and utilitarian elements reminiscent of sailboats, ocean liners, and seaside living. I may have been a sailor in a past life.

Secondly, my clients play a huge role in my design process and are critical in creating thoughtful, authentic designs. I love how different design briefs can take projects in a direction I would not have gone without client input. Listening is key.