On Friday the world
learned that iconic Interior Designer Albert Hadley passed away at the age of
91. His name is as synonymous with the industry as “chair” or “window
covering”, and his iconic status as America’s preeminent decorator is no
accident. He was one of my Interior Design idols, and his presence and example
will be sorely missed. When I decided to become an Interior Designer, I could
not think of a better person to try to emulate than Mr. Hadley.
By all accounts, Mr.
Hadley’s career, was not so much envied and coveted, but admired and aspired
to. He did more for the Design industry as an ambassador than could ever be
imagined.
I learned much about him
when I bought the Rizzoli book
about his life that is in his own words, with commentary by Adam Lewis. His career is nearly
mythic in who it cross-references along his journey. When moving to New York he
sought out mentors in design legends like Rose Cumming, Billy Baldwin, Van Day
Truex and of course he is best known for his collaboration with Sister Parish
at their eponymous firm Parish Hadley.
Although I never met Mr.
Hadley, I have admired him and his work since before I became a designer. In
the Rizzoli book he is quoted
as saying:
“ Decorating is not about making stage sets, it’s not about making
pretty pictures for magazines; it’s really about creating a quality of life, a
beauty that nourishes the soul. Design is coming to grips with one’s real
lifestyle, one’s real place in the world. Rooms should not be put together for
show, but to nourish one’s well being.”
Thank you Mr. Hadley for
showing us how it’s done.
David J. Hansen
*All photos are from House Beautiful and were photographed by Fernando Bengoechea.
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