This year, Studio Designer CEO Keith Granet has interviewed some of the most eminent talents in the trade with The Business of Design Interview Series. He had fascinating and revealing conversations about the industry with design stars including Suzanne Kasler, Jan Showers, Edward Yedid, Elizabeth Roberts, and most recently Ken Fulk.
We are closing out the interview series this year with the legendary designer Suzanne Tucker, who is an inspirational force in this industry. Her enduring style, detail-oriented personal approach, and especially her love for architecture and the decorative arts are reflected in her breathtaking interiors.
Suzanne has put in the work, dedication, and focus to become one of the country’s top interior designers. She established her career working with legendary Michael Taylor as his protégée and strongly believes that “surrounding ourselves with the authenticity of thoughtful design and timeless architecture, we are able to enrich and enhance the quality of our lives.” Suzanne founded Tucker and Marks in 1986 with her husband/partner Timothy F. Marks and they have since built a distinguished firm that continues to set new standards in high-end residential interiors.
In 2010, Suzanne launched Suzanne Tucker Home, a textile, tabletop, and home furnishings line. Her books include Rooms to Remember, The Classic Interiors of Suzanne Tucker, Suzanne Tucker Interiors – The Romance of Design; and a new book is planned for 2022.
Suzanne is a tireless creative who also demonstrates leadership in the art world including being Director Emeritus of the Northern California Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art and, serving as a Director on the National Board, and co-chairs the prestigious Arthur Ross Awards among numerous other roles. In advance of her upcoming interview, we asked Suzanne a few questions about her storied design career and numerous product lines.
What would you describe as the Suzanne Tucker aesthetic?
I would say my aesthetic is individually reflective with a passionate approach to balance and detail, resulting in a rather personalized chic. Those are a lot of descriptive words and one can always use rather clichéd adjectives like comfortable, elegant, and inviting to describe my work but it should be all that and more, whether the home is casual or formal, in the city or in the country. My aesthetic has evolved over the years in my approach to clients. I’m a very good listener and—in my constant curiosity—the details, the depth of design, the wisdom and expertise I’ve gained continue my education every single day. I take a highly personalized approach for each client and individual project, so, for me, it’s a constant evolution. No two projects are alike!
What are your favorite sources of inspiration?
Travel inspires me more than anything. Of course, we’ve all had to “travel” virtually for the past year and thank goodness I have (at current count) 108,566 photos in my iPhone albums! I “traveled” back in time through past trips, study tours, courses, and holidays becoming re-inspired over and over again. But truthfully, I am so ready to pack my suitcase again and nurture my chronic case of wanderlust! On my travel list, besides the usual stops— New York, London, Paris, Italy—it would be India, Japan, and back to Africa! And repeat!
How long have you used Studio Designer?
We have been using Studio Designer since its inception when it was called Impact Ideal Solutions, around 1989.
Can you share some details about your signature line as well as your current product licensing deals?
We are proud to have our own Suzanne Tucker Home line (which is owned and managed by ourselves and is not a licensing deal) with a new line of home textiles. We also have an array of product licensing deals in the following categories:
- Dinnerware: Suzanne Tucker Home for Royal Limoges
- Fine Bedding: Suzanne Tucker Home for Julia
- Stone mantels: Suzanne Tucker Home for Chesney’s
- Outdoor furnishings: Suzanne Tucker for Michael Taylor Designs
- Hardware: Suzanne Tucker Home for Nanz
