Designer Series: Modern Global Design with Rachel Moriarty
Renowned for her vibrant style and multicultural influences, Award-Winning Designer and #1 Best Selling Author, Rachel Moriarty, fearlessly incorporates bold colors and textures into her iconic designs. With a background as a fashion stylist, she infuses energy and authenticity into her designs by playing with fabric, texture, and color. Rachel actively manages residential and commercial design projects, seamlessly incorporating warmth and authenticity into every space.
We were incredibly excited to collaborate with Rachel for Designer Series, where she showcased her vibrant maximalist and global design style. On set, Rachel proved to be a dynamic force—infusing the atmosphere with positivity, enthusiasm, and decisive energy, a testament to her extensive experience in the interior design field. Her execution of both room designs demonstrated a seamless and professional touch. Dive deeper into the creative mind and expertise of Rachel Moriarty.
Q&A with the woman behind Rachel Moriarty Interiors
Tell us about your design background.
My journey into interior design has been quite an organic one, let me tell you! It all started back in the fashion industry, where I worked as a Visual Merchandiser in both the US and Dubai. After that, I spent over a decade as an Advertising Coordinator and Photo Stylist for the men's and home divisions of a large catalog house.
But then, something clicked in 2005. That's when I decided to get certified in Home Staging and Interior Redesign. And I've never looked back since! Over the years, I've continuously evolved and grown in my craft, honing my skills, and exploring new ideas.
Now, after nearly 20 years in the game, I couldn't be more proud to have my own boutique award-winning design firm, Rachel Moriarty Interiors. And the best part? Our projects span across the US and even into Mexico!
How did you approach this project & laying out the two room designs?
I approached it just like I would any project. I always start with the “vibe” or how I want a space to feel. For the dining room, I decided to style that space in a Modern Holiday Glam vibe since the holidays are quickly approaching.
For the living room space, I decided on a Modern Global vibe. Since the furnishings I selected were neutral, I added a large colorful area rug and global inspired accessories and absolutely love how the space came together.
Products styled:
To achieve both designs, the following two products were styled using a blend of in-store furniture accents, studio props, and Rachel’s own accent pieces.
What do you love most about creating unique spaces?
I love the challenge! I love continually pushing myself to think out of the box and create something new. I attend industry markets all over the country to stay on top of the trends and stay inspired.
Is there a specific color palette you find particularly intriguing or something you’re gravitating towards right now?
Personally, I’m gravitating towards Dark Academia color palettes....dark burgundy, deep navy blue, dark green, charcoal gray. I always balance it with plenty of neutrals and pops of bold patterns to keep it from going too dark.
What vibe was the dining room inspired by?
I was inspired by the holiday season and created a Modern Holiday Glam vibe in the dining room.
What do you like about the Dapper Dining set?
I was attracted to the Dapper Dining Set because of the curved lines of the base, the scale and versatility. I always love a glass table because it’s so easy to clean which makes it super functional. It’s versatile enough to work with different styles, paint colors and wallpaper which is a bonus for me!
Final Look:
What features do you like most about the Decker Sofa?
I loved its modern lines, but it was super comfortable too! I LOVE sofas with wide modern arms because they act as extra seating when you’re entertaining. The color and texture were great and can work in so many settings. It’s super versatile too and can work in both formal and casual settings.
Rachel Moriarty Interiors is hugely inspired by your multi-cultural background, vibrant colors, textures, and a maximalist style – how do you incorporate this into your projects?
Incorporating my multi-cultural background, vibrant colors, textures, and maximalist style into my projects is truly a joyful and collaborative process. It's about creating spaces that celebrate individuality, ignite the senses, and bring joy. By embracing diversity and pushing the boundaries of design, I have the privilege of crafting interiors that are truly one-of-a-kind and reflective of the world we live in today.
Is there a universal advice you’d give to people learning to explore their own style and add design touches to their space?
If there's one piece of advice I would give to anyone starting out on their design journey, it would be this: add colorful accents! I like to buy large furnishings and investment pieces in neutral colors and layer on the color and pattern just like I did in our Designer Series Collaboration.
Any interior design trends or predictions you foresee happening in 2024?
I was just at High Point Market, the largest furniture market in the world. Sustainability, incorporating modern and vintage, tech-integrated furniture and the boucle is still going strong!
For more info and inspiration, check out Rachel Moriarty Interiors on their official website at https://www.rachelminteriors.com/ and on Instagram at @rachelmoriartyinteriors.