James Andrew - photo Gabriel Everett
While designing at Parish-Hadley Inc., I learned a great deal from my friend and mentor Albert Hadley. First and foremost was the importance of establishing a point of view, an aesthetic, (and then to hold to that initial point of view throughout the process!). One would then proceed by getting the “bones right,” that is, by creating a great architectural foundaton before beginning to decorate. After this, one would develop a color palette, using “crisp, clean, clear colors,” as Hadley put it, to dispel “gloom,” and to guarantee a fresh look and a pleasing environment. Of course this is not to say that there was a limited set of prescribed colors one was to choose from. On the contrary, Hadley used a full range—from soft neutrals (he loved beige) to dark creosote brown, and from vibrant reds to aubergine and dark leaf greens, all wonderfully juxtaposed and perfectly balanced to create some of the most iconic interiors of our time.
Building an interior methodically like this, one can be confident of success. These days, I’m proud to reference these vital lessons and many more Hadley shared with me in creating soothing, joyful, and beautiful interiors for my own clients!
A Don Robertson painting from the 70’s provides a rather vibrant backdrop for today’s photo by Gabriel Everett. I’m sporting a Tom Ford “Spencer” jacket in tangerine silk basket weave, lavender micro herringbone weave silk pants, sand colored suede loafers and a abstract silk floral pattern pocket square, Turnbull and Asser purple gingham cotton shirt, Gucci python belt with silver buckle, vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch and my fragrance is Creed Orange Spice.
