Profile: Frank Ponterio
by allthebest • 14 May ’10 • Frank Ponterio, profile • 14 Comments
Prior to meeting Frank Ponterio last month in Venice, we had spoken by phone and email on several occasions. Just as I was instantly drawn to his work after seeing photos, I was instantly drawn to Frank after meeting him in person. Both friendly and grounded, with a great eye for design, Frank is easy to like.
It’s these admired traits that have proven to be an appealing combination for many. Several loyal clients have collaborated with Frank on multiple projects, including second homes, private offices and vacation residences.
His respect for historical influences, infused with modern day elegance, is at the heart of every design. “Individuality is very important to me and each project is met with an appreciation for artistry, authenticity and personalized style,” says Frank. “My goal is to help our clients live exceptionally well. I work to ensure that each project is grounded in great design and, most importantly, individualism.”
Staying true to his love of historical preservation, Frank owns a home designed by the late architect David Adler. In addition, his firm has received recognition for preservation efforts as well as multiple ASID-IL Design Excellence Awards in various categories from historic restoration to residential design. Since 2001, Frank Ponterio Interior Design has also participated in the prestigious Lake Forest Showcase House, benefiting the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago.
How would you describe your personal style?
Casual elegance. Not being afraid to live comfortably in beautiful surroundings.
What inspires your creativity and designs?
Travel, personalities and love for architecture and design. I’m inspired by great design and great personalities—both help me to look at things in new ways. It’s about raising the bar and making it personal.
Mostly I’m inspired by people—great clients, great architects, artists and the people I get to work with – our collaboration always leads to classically inspired, modern designs that “just fit.”
What is your most prized possession?
My home, designed by David Adler.
What is the one thing in life you cannot live without?
My wife, Becky, and daughter, Isabella.
Who are your style icons?
David Adler, Jean-Michel Frank, Ralph Lauren and Axel Vervoordt.
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Who would you most like to collaborate with on a project?
Mario Batali! He’s all about family, fun, and being the absolute best at his craft…plus I assume he would cook for the meetings, yum!
What books are currently on your bedside table?
Stacks and stacks of shelter magazines.
What is your favorite luxury in life?
Time.
What is your idea of earthly happiness?
Being at my family farm with my wife, daughter and the dogs.
Past or present who has most influenced your direction in life?
Definitely, my father.
Profile by Ronda Carman
How wonderful it must be to lice in a David Adler home. Very nice profile.
Anne
sorry Ronda that should have read live!
Anne
Anne I guessed as much
Frank is a great designer.
Just found your very nice blog. I like that his rooms are visually exciting, but also very soothing.
Rhonda, thank you for this beautifully written piece. This is surely a very talented, thoughtful designer, grounded in life and great design. What more could a client want?
Frank's interiors are amazing. They are like a breath of fresh air. All of his answers were so endearing. You can tell he really has a love for what he does.
As a fellow interior designer, I am so happy that you interviewed him. He really is an inspiration.
Beautiful images and wonderful interview. Have a nice weekend.
Such beautiful rooms and a beautiful profile. Thank you for introducing us to Frank's work.
Clean and elegant, he works and lives with high standards. Always love to visit your blog. Ciao.
Ronda, great interview I love Frank's work!
Interview and Giveaway by Beth Cosner Design is up on my site….come visit!
Karena
Art by Karena
we have the privilege here in illinois to be up close and personal to frank's work. he sounds like a gentleman and a class act, as is his work.
hope to meet him someday
debra
5th and state
What an inspiring article you have written on Franks life and Loves. He is an amazing designer and it was great to learn about him. Hayley
We here at Eclipse Wool Carpet, has had the opportunity to work with Frank and Becky on several flooring projects. We have enjoyed every moment that we worked with them. Frank is a good man with wonderful values. The article on Frank was so true to the family and business man we know.
Jan Showers is indeed an inspiration. I loved the interview and all of the photos — the one with the pair of yellow lamps on the sideboard really appealed to me. I would so love to win her book! Thanks!!