Profile: Summer Thornton
by allthebest • 25 Feb ’11 • profile, Summer Thornton • 12 Comments
Summer Thornton is the founder of Summer Thornton Design, a Chicago based interior design firm. In all honesty, I can’t quite remember how I first became aware of Summer, but I certainly remember being impressed with her work and philosophy, “To make the design process unpretentious, fun and fresh. Mixing high and low, rough and polished, classic and irreverent, her designs utilize contrast to engage the senses.”
No question, Summer has a knack for blending traditional and modern in a way that is refined, yet zestful and fresh. I feel certain that Summer Thorton is one to watch, and I for one can’t wait to see more from this talented designer.
How would you describe your personal style?
My style is all about blending the traditional with unusual color combinations and layered patterns. I have a love for luxurious designs, but I also make it a point to not take any design, or myself, too seriously! No matter what, I always strive for my designs to feel fresh.
What is your most prized possession?
There are just a few things that I’ve said I’ll keep until I die. One is a set of Antique French Bergere chairs my husband bought for me on my birthday a few years ago. The others are my antique engagement ring and a collection of vintage lamps that I am always adding to! Can I pick three things? I just don’t think I could live without any of them.
What is your idea of earthly happiness?
1st off – I love that you said ‘earthly happiness’, that’s a great distinction. Wow, I think it is being able to use your God given talents and passion every day. For me, that’s being able to design. I truly can’t imagine doing anything else. I never imagined I’d be able to work on some of the projects I’ve been involved with – it’s a dream come true.
What is the one thing in life you cannot live without?
A good nights sleep. And most people probably wouldn’t want to live around me if I haven’t had one either!
What inspires your creativity and designs?
I am a constant observer. I love finding unusual color combinations, especially in nature. I take pictures everywhere I go, literally EVERYWHERE. You never know what might cause a spark in your imagination. I also love to study fashion for inspiration. Fashion designers are oftentimes more willing to push the envelope and I love the designers who create theater in what they do. For me, interior design is about evoking a mood and telling a story about the people who live there. It should be dramatic, intriguing and representative of the people!
Who are your style icons?
In the world of interiors I’ve always admired the work of Miles Redd & Kelly Wearstler. But looking outside interiors, I’ve always loved the style of Alexander McQueen, Erin Fetherston, Marc Jacobs, Alice Temperley, and who doesn’t love Chanel.
Who would you most like to collaborate with on a project?
I’d actually love to collaborate with Grace Coddington – Vogue’s creative director on a project. Everything she does turns into gold – with great emotion and mood. Grace! Call me!! Ha.
What books are currently on your bedside table?
They change all the time. Right now I’ve got Vogue Living, Hue, Rooms to Inspire in the Country, and American Modern.
What is your favorite luxury in life?
Travel and beautiful hotel rooms. I love exposing myself to new ideas of beauty and seeing the diversity of creation. Different architecture, clothing, foods, landscapes, climate, and so on. However, at the end of a day of exploration there is nothing like pampering yourself with a bubble bath and room service!
Past or present who has most influenced your direction in life?
My parents have always been my biggest supporters. They have been a great example to me of how to live a life of joy.
Profile by Ronda Carman
Beautiful work and philosophy! Summer, I can see why you can’t live without those Antique French Bergere chairs- they are amazing!!
Love to meet Summer in Chicago with my 11 year old who wants to be an Interior Designer! Love her work.
pve
Love her work and now know why – love her too!!
Summer is beautiful inside and out(adore her name) Grand getting to know her+seeing your lovely writing. xx peggybraswelldesign.com
This interview has struck a chord with me. The design aesthetics and Summer’s personal goals are definitely in the flow of life. Mary
Beautiful work…thanks for the introduction to Summer!
Amazing! I love Summer’s traditional style with just the right amount of unusual interest. Those upholstered blue chairs are to die for!
Looking forward to seeing you in a couple of days at the conference in LA!!
Ronda,
Great new Blog makeover for 2011. Summer appears to work extremely hard to achieve her project goals. Lovely!
As an interior design student living in Chicago, Summer is a true inspiration! I remember the first time I saw her on apartment therapy – It’s great to see that hard work and a passion for design can lead to a successful career!
love her work- so vibrant and full of life!!
Love the mixing of high and low, as well as classic and modern. Something I follow in my design as well.
I love her work. As a student in Chicago I was lucky enough to visit the room she designed for the Chicago Merchandise Mart’s yearly Dream Home. It was so whimsical, with the perfect amounts of color and texture.