Before entering the design field, Reed explored other sectors of the arts, studying fashion at Parsons University and filmmaking at New York University. But it wasn’t until he went to work for the legendary New York design couple, John Rosselli and Bunny Williams, that he knew he’d found his place. Since then, his charming, vibrant interiors have earned him national press, a spot on the AD100, and collections with Schumacher and Ballard Designs. A true multi-hyphenate, Redd has also served as creative director for the house of Oscar de la Renta and is the author of a book The Big Book of Stylea book chronicling a wide range of his fun and colorful projects.
In this episode of the show, Reed discusses renaming his company in 2019 to include his business partner David Cayhoe, the right way to leave a design firm, and how he has navigated the economic ups and downs over two decades in business.
Critical vision: In addition to the creative knowledge Reid gained while working with Bunny Williams, he learned a host of tangible business lessons. Williams perfected a formula that worked with both clients and vendors: On the client side, she was able to explain why decor costs the way it does, while managing vendors by closely monitoring samples, timelines, and orders. Redd also learned the right way to leave a design job when it came time to move on from Bunny. “You invest a lot with someone in decorating, and it takes a long time to say goodbye because projects take so long to finish, so I waited until everything was finished and the new person was ready to go before I left.” he says, noting that it took a six- to eight-month transition period. “Bunny gave me a lot, so I didn’t want to rush.”
Main quote: “You have to fail at some things and recognize what you are not good at in order to find the gumption within you to discover what you are good at. … Do the thing that is very easy and comes naturally to you, and try to make a career out of it. It is harder to do than it seems, but follow Your passion.
Listen to the show below. If you like what you hear, subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This episode is sponsored by Lillian August and Hartmann & Forbes.
Meanwhile, in the last episode of Show ThursdayScully and Pooh Executive Editor Fred Nicholas dissects the latest news in the design industry, including a recap of RH’s latest earnings calls, the dark side of chaos and takeaways from this fall’s Maison & Objet. Later, Washington Post Reporter Rachel Kurzius discusses the slow decline in furniture quality.
Listen below. If you like what you hear, subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. This episode is sponsored by Chelsea House.
Home page image: Miles Redd | Courtesy of the designer