Introduction
Jared Rusten is a leading interior designer and tastemaker based in New York City. With over 15 years of experience in the design industry, Rusten has established himself as an expert in creating luxurious, modern, and livable spaces for high-profile clients.
Rusten’s aesthetic can be described as refined minimalism meets mid-century modern. He effortlessly blends clean lines, neutral palettes, and contemporary art to craft interiors that are at once calming and sophisticated. Though his work draws inspiration from mid-century masters like Florence Knoll and George Nelson, Rusten manages to keep his designs feeling current and fresh.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Rusten’s background, design philosophy, notable projects, accolades, and influence as one of today’s top interior designers and tastemakers.
Background and Education
Jared Rusten grew up in Southern California and received his bachelor’s degree in interior design from the University of California, Los Angeles. During his studies, Rusten honed his skills working for prominent Los Angeles designers like Michael S. Smith and Waldo Fernandez.
After graduation, Rusten moved to New York City to gain experience in hospitality design. He worked on projects for luxury hotels and restaurants like The Carlyle Hotel, Gramercy Tavern, and Union Square Cafe. During this time, Rusten learned how to create comfortable yet elegant spaces tailored to different uses and customers.
In 2005, Rusten founded his own design firm Jared Rusten Design in New York City. The studio works on residential, hospitality, and commercial projects across the United States and internationally.
Design Philosophy and Style
Rusten’s design philosophy is centered around crafting timeless, livable luxury for modern lifestyles. He focuses on choosing quality materials like natural stone, woods, and leathers that age beautifully. Rusten also prioritizes comfort, eschewing overly ornate spaces in favor of relaxed refinement.
In terms of style, Rusten gravitates towards a paired-back aesthetic blending mid-century influences with contemporary details. Clean architectural lines, neutral color palettes, and geometric patterns feature heavily in his work. Rusten effortlessly balances retro touches like sculptural lighting and breezy linen drapes with modern elements like abstract art and fresh flower arrangements.
While many of his interiors have a serene, calming quality about them, Rusten also artfully layers in texture, color and artistic flourishes to keep his design fresh and inviting. He cites Brazilian architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha, designer Axel Vervoordt, and artist Donald Judd as inspirations.
Notable Commercial and Residential Projects
Over his prolific career, Rusten has crafted interiors for an impressive roster of commercial and residential clients. His work can be seen in hotels, restaurants, retail boutiques, private residences, and more.
Some of Rusten’s most notable hospitality projects include:
- The Renwick Hotel – Transformed this 1890s Romanesque Revival building into a lavish boutique hotel. Rusten’s redesign evoked old-world glamour through details like velvet drapes, dark wood paneling, and ornate moldings.
- Cafe Altro Paradiso – Designed the airy, modern interior of Ignacio Mattos’ beloved Italian restaurant in Soho. Rusten opted for a minimalist look with exposed brick, marble counters, and brass accents.
- The Musket Room – Crafted a moody, cinematic interior for this Michelin-starred Kiwi restaurant in New York. Black leather booths, bold floral arrangements, and a smoky, emerald green palette create drama.
For residential projects, Rusten is renowned for his luxurious, livable family homes. Below are some standout examples:
- penthouse at 53 West 53rd Street – This swanky Beekman Tower residence features Rusten’s signature refined, neutral palette. Custom millwork and stone elements add visual interest.
- Gramercy Townhouse – A 19th century townhouse updated with airy, open spaces and modern art. Rusten opened up the floorplan and allowed the architecture itself to shine.
- Shelter Island Retreat – This Hamptons getaway mixes breezy linens, rattan furniture, and whitewashed wood for a coastal chic look. The interiors evoke relaxed sophistication.
Awards and Accolades
Rusten’s mastery of sophisticated, modern design has earned him numerous accolades from leading industry publications. He has been named to Architectural Digest’s AD100, Elle Decor’s A-List, and House Beautiful’s Next Wave over the years.
Some highlights among Rusten’s awards and honors include:
- 2017 Interior Design Hall of Fame inductee
- NYC&G Inn of the Year for The Renwick Hotel in 2016
- Hospitality Design Platinum Circle Award for Musket Room in 2015
- Galerie Magazine Designer of the Year in 2013
- House Beautiful Magazine Top Designer in 2011
Rusten’s residential projects have also earned several PRISM awards recognizing excellent interior design from the American Society of Interior Designers.
Influence as a Tastemaker
Beyond his projects, Rusten has become a tastemaker through partnerships with luxury brands and fostering emerging talent. He has collaborated with companies like Vitra, Molteni&C, and The Rug Company to develop signature collections showcasing his aesthetic.
Rusten has also used his firm’s platform to launch the careers of young designers. Many apprentices in his studio have gone on to open their own successful firms, taking Rusten’s teachings with them.
In interviews and profiles, Rusten has emphasized the importance of timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and creativity. His insights into achieving balance, proportion, and harmony within a space have resonated in the industry.
Through his iconic projects, creative vision, and mentorship, Jared Rusten has firmly established himself as one of today’s most influential interior designers and tastemakers. His impeccable interiors will continue inspiring designers and delighting sophisticated clients for years to come.
Design Tastemaker: Jared Rusten
Jared Rusten is one of the top interior designers and tastemakers working today. His refined minimalist aesthetic and luxurious modern spaces have made him an industry leader.
What is Rusten’s design style and philosophy?
Rusten’s style blends clean mid-century lines with contemporary details for a relaxed yet sophisticated look. His philosophy centers around timeless, livable luxury using quality materials like stone, wood, and leather. Comfort and refinement are prioritized over ornamentation.
What are some of Rusten’s most notable projects?
His notable projects include the romantic, old-world Renwick Hotel, the minimalist Cafe Altro Paradiso, moody Michelin-starred Musket Room, and luxurious private residences like a Beekman Tower penthouse.
What awards and accolades has Rusten received?
Rusten has been inducted into Interior Design’s Hall of Fame, named to Elle Decor’s A-List, and won awards from organizations like ASID. His residential work has won several PRISM awards.
How has Rusten influenced the design world?
Beyond his iconic projects, Rusten has collaborated with top brands like Vitra and launched careers of young designers from his studio. His insights on achieving harmony and quality resonate widely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jared Rusten
Here are some common questions people have about interior design tastemaker Jared Rusten:
Where is Jared Rusten based?
Rusten founded his interior design firm Jared Rusten Design in New York City in 2005. His studio works on luxury residential and commercial projects across the U.S. and internationally.
What is Jared Rusten’s design aesthetic?
Rusten’s aesthetic can be described as refined minimalism blended with mid-century modern style. He utilizes clean lines, neutral colors, natural materials, and contemporary details to craft serene, sophisticated spaces.
What are some signature elements of a Jared Rusten room?
Signature Rusten elements include stone and wood sculptural accents, breezy natural fiber drapes, vintage modern furnishings, and abstract contemporary art. Neutral color palettes and airy, open layouts allow the architecture to shine.
What famous projects has Jared Rusten designed?
Some of Rusten’s most famous projects include New York’s The Renwick Hotel, Cafe Altro Paradiso, and Michelin-starred Musket Room. He’s also designed elite private residences like a Beekman Tower penthouse.
How can I get the Jared Rusten look in my home?
Focus on quality over quantity, opt for neutrals as a base, and add in one or two bold sculptural statements. Incorporate natural materials like wool, linen, leather and wood. Invest in a few key vintage mid-century modern furniture pieces.
Is Jared Rusten affiliated with any major brands?
Rusten has partnered with leading design brands like Vitra, Molteni&C, and The Rug Company to create signature collections that exemplify his aesthetic. Many brands seek out his mastery of modern luxury.
How can I find inspiration from Jared Rusten’s work?
Follow Rusten on Instagram @jaredrustendesign for a closer look at his projects. Read interviews and profiles to gain insight into his design philosophy and process. Look to his commercial projects like hotels and restaurants to inspire your own home.
Jared Rusten is an undeniably talented tastemaker in the world of interior design. His blend of mid-century and contemporary style has permeated the industry and influenced a generation of designers. Rusten continues to craft gorgeous, livable spaces for discerning clients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jared Rusten has firmly established himself as one of the most talented and sought-after interior designers working today. His refined yet relaxed aesthetic has reshaped modern perceptions of luxury. Rusten’s commercial and residential projects masterfully blend mid-century inspiration with contemporary details to create timeless, harmonious spaces.
Beyond his iconic design work, Rusten has also become a tastemaker through partnerships with top brands and by fostering emerging talent. His insights on design, creativity, and quality craftsmanship continue to resonate and inspire. With his flawless taste, artistic vision, and mentorship, Jared Rusten’s influence as a design tastemaker will endure for generations to come. He remains at the forefront of shaping elegant, livable interiors suited to modern lifestyles.
