“Rawness and refinement are not opposite ends of a luxurious spectrum. They are two complementary features with which to populate a luxe environment.” This sentiment by Kelly Wearstler perfectly captures the spirit of the homes belonging to the emperor of fashion himself, Valentino Garavani.
When we look back at the iconic imagery captured by the legendary photographer Horst P. Horst for vogue magazine, we aren't just looking at rooms; we are looking at a masterclass in luxury interior design. Valentino’s homes were never just places to sleep -they were extensions of his couture runway, draped in drama, history, and an unapologetic love for the "extra."
The Horst P. Horst Lens: Capturing Couture Interiors
There is something hauntingly beautiful about how Horst P. Horst photographed Valentino's estates. Through his lens, every cushion, every Chinoiserie vase, and every yard of silk damask felt alive. It reminds us that interior design is about more than just filling a room; it’s about creating a narrative.
Valentino’s homes - from the Château de Wideville to his Roman villas - demonstrate that true maximalism isn't about clutter. It’s about a disciplined "more." Like the intricate beadwork on a gown, his rooms are composed of layers upon layers of textures that somehow find a harmonious rhythm.
Key Lessons from the Valentino Aesthetic
If you are looking to bring a touch of that Garavani glamour into your own space, here are the themes that defined his legendary style:
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The Power of Monochromatic Drama: We cannot talk about Valentino without mentioning red. He used color to anchor a room, often drenching spaces in single, bold hues that made the architecture pop.
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Chinoiserie and Global Treasures: His homes were a curated world tour. He frequently blended 18th-century European furniture with exquisite Eastern art, proving that different cultures can live together beautifully in one space.
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The "Lived-In" Museum: Despite the opulence, his homes never felt cold. He mastered the art of "curated clutter"- stacks of books, collections of silver, and personal mementos that tell a story of a life well-traveled.
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Symmetry and Scale: Much like his fashion, his rooms often followed a rigorous sense of symmetry. Pairing large-scale statement furniture with delicate side trinkets creates a sense of balance that keeps a maximalist room from feeling overwhelming.
Bringing the Look Home
At Appreciation Project, we believe that your home should be a vibrant extension of your personality. Whether you are designing a cozy reading nook or a grand entertaining space, the goal is to be faithful to your own taste. As Billy Baldwin once said, "nothing you really like is ever out of style."
If you’re feeling inspired by Valentino’s blend of old-world charm and modern luxury, why not start your own journey? Our bespoke interior design services and curated luxury interior design consultations can help you find that perfect balance between rawness and refinement.
Whether you're hunting for treasures on eBay or investing in British-made heritage pieces, remember that your home is the stage for your life's story. Let’s make it a masterpiece.
Love,
Natasha. x
