Samuel Grayson: The Silent Visionary Shaping Spaces with Art

In a world where the spotlight often shines brightest on the designer’s face, Samuel Grayson prefers to remain in the shadows — a silent visionary whose work speaks volumes. Renowned for transforming spaces into living art, Grayson’s approach to design is one of subtlety, sophistication, and deep emotion. In this exclusive interview, we explore his journey, his creative process, and the philosophy that drives his exceptional work behind the scenes.

Background and Inspiration

Tell us about your journey. How did you discover your passion for interior design, and what led you to pursue it as a career?

It was such an obvious path that I didn’t see it! When I was a kid, I was always going with my mother to design stores to buy decoration items as she loved to change our interior design very often. I also helped her renovate our new home when I was a teenager! But I first studied marketing. It was during a trip to the south of England that I suddenly realised I was born to do design. I started an internship as a communication assistant for an awards company and ended up designing the venues for their events!

You’ve built a reputation as a consultant who works behind the scenes. Why did you choose to stay in the shadows rather than being the face of your projects?

The freedom! Working as a consultant allows you to work from wherever you want. I never have to go on-site, so even if a project is, for example, in Sydney, I can design it from London if I want. This flexibility also lets me manage my time effectively and work for different firms with their own unique processes. I love this diversity and liberty.

How has your international experience—living in Paris, London, Sydney, and now NYC—influenced your design aesthetic?

Working worldwide is pretty challenging, I have to admit, but it pushes me to adapt my designs to the habits and ways of life in different locations. I also have to work with different materials. I wouldn’t use the same stone or wood in Sydney as in NYC because of the weather, for example. Additionally, I prefer to pick local materials to reduce the ecological impact interior design can have.

Your Creative Process

Your work is often described as art. Can you tell us how you approach a new project and how you infuse creativity into each space?

It’s all about feelings. When I start a project, I first think about how I want to feel when I step into the room. It can be cosy, down-to-earth, ostentatious, or quiet. There are endless possibilities, and I see an interior as a blank canvas to express emotions.

You’re known for collaborating with galleries, artists, and sourcing unique furniture. How do you find pieces that elevate your designs?

I have very close relationships with amazing art galleries and artists based around the world. From the concept I create, I start sourcing based on my knowledge. And if I don’t find what I have in mind, I simply design and produce it myself!

How do you balance your client’s vision with your own creative input? Are there moments when you need to push boundaries?

Most of the time, my clients hire me for my expertise. When that’s not the case, they provide the brief from their client. The only project that was very challenging was a 5* hotel in Sydney. The client wanted something very colourful, and, well, colours are not my cup of tea! But the client was happy with my design, and it is now under construction.

Recognition and the “Shadow” Role

You’ve designed spaces that have been featured in major publications and frequented by celebrities. How do you feel about not being publicly credited for your contributions?

It’s a bit frustrating that they don’t know I was in charge and the head of the design, but I prefer to set aside my ego. I have the chance to work on the most exquisite properties in the world and for the most luxurious hotels and restaurants. Design is what makes me breathe, not rewards.

What do you think it takes to be a great consultant in this field? Is it more about design, relationships, or something else?

I don’t have the answer to this! I am so grateful every day I work. I think what works for me is my unique vision and my distinctive way of working on a project. The fact that I started working in the luxury market very young is also a plus, as this is a very small world and everyone knows each other.

Do you ever feel frustrated being in the background, or is there a freedom in anonymity that you enjoy?

Yes, it can be, but it is a choice. This freedom is so important to me, and I understand it doesn’t suit everyone. But in the end, when you are an employee, you also in a way work in the background.

The Designer’s Philosophy

Your work is known for being timeless yet unique. How do you stay ahead of trends while maintaining a sense of classic elegance?

When you follow trends, it means in a few years your design will look dated and overdone. My clients spend millions on their projects, and I want to ensure they don’t feel the need to redo it every 5 years. Using the right materials and the right furniture will make your interior look like a piece of art—and art always stands the test of time.

If you could describe your design philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?

Where the silent spaces make the most noise.

What inspires you outside of interior design? Art, music, fashion, travel—what fuels your creativity?

My creativity comes from my mind. I don’t even look at what other interior designers do, as I don’t want to be influenced by their designs. But I am a big fan of nature, museums, and fashion. I also designed my first evening wear collection, but you’ll have to wait before I say too much!

Looking Ahead

Are there any dream projects or spaces you’ve yet to design?

I’m lucky—I think I’ve designed a bit of everything: mansions, penthouses, hotels, member’s clubs, superyachts, and even a vet! My dream project would be to design my home (but I’ll have to keep working a lot before I can afford it!).

If you could collaborate with any architect, brand, or artist, who would it be and why?

I don’t have a name in mind, but I would love to collaborate more with luxury property developers or with a brand to create a furniture collection with them.

What’s next for you? Do you see yourself stepping into the spotlight more, or will you continue to thrive in the shadows?

For now, I have to finish designing a penthouse in Miami Beach, a townhouse in NYC, an apartment in Paris, and a hotel in Sydney. But I am thinking of starting to work under my own name with private clients. This is the next step I would like to achieve for 2025/2026.

INTERVIEW

Samuel Grayson: The Silent Visionary Shaping Spaces with Art