Louise M. Neyer Interiors
Louise M. Neyer is an accomplished interior designer whose journey into the field was inspired by her innate passion for art and architecture. Louise was recently featured in Architectural Digest's "Excellence in Design in the Desert" for September 2023 for California and "AD 100" top designers for January 2024 for California and New York Editions. We had the privilege of interviewing Louise over the phone, and her enthusiasm for the industry shines through. She emphasizes the importance of building genuine connections with clients and delivering comprehensive services that go beyond surface-level design.
Get to know Louise M. Neyer in this EFL Designer Q&A!
Q: What inspired your journey into interior design, and how has your style evolved over the years?
Louise M. Neyer: From a young age, I possessed a natural inclination towards art and architecture, manifesting in my early sketches and designs. Observing how natural elements intertwined with architectural concepts, I developed a keen eye for scale, balance, and proportion. This passion guided me into design school, where I quickly immersed myself in the industry. While in design school, I started an internship that turned into a full-time position with seasoned professional James Callahan. One of the most famous designers in Palm Springs! He taught me how to incorporate furniture, textile, and wall covering to create a fully curated design space.
Fueled by a desire to streamline the design process, I founded my own business, integrating architectural and construction services under one roof. Over three decades, I've cultivated a vast network and expanded my services, managing projects from conception to completion. My approach, emphasizing comprehensive service and client satisfaction, has propelled my career to unprecedented heights, allowing me to create luxury homes across diverse locations while maintaining standards of excellence and client trust.
Q: Who do you offer your design services to?
Louise M. Neyer: I've always believed in the power of relationships, especially in the real estate world. Knowing that almost every home sale leads to remodeling, I strategically aligned myself with architects, contractors, and builders. By fostering long-term partnerships, I've ensured a steady stream of referrals and collaborations.
But here's the thing: we're not just about surface-level design. We're the full package, offering everything from architectural plans, exterior and interior design, to property management services. When it comes to clients, it's all about trust and developing strong relationships. My practice is built on the foundation of genuine connections that last a lifetime.
Q: What is your design aesthetic? What unique elements define your style, and how do you incorporate them into your projects?
Louise M. Neyer: My design journey began with a contemporary flair, but over time, I've embraced versatility, crafting curated and elegant spaces that reflect a sophisticated aesthetic. To me, design is like dressing up a classic black dress with the perfect accessories—it's about curating elements to create a cohesive and refined whole. Architecture isn't just a part of my design; it's ingrained in how I live and breathe. It's a natural extension of myself, shaping every aspect of my work. When clients are unsure of their vision, I relish the opportunity to guide them towards something I'm passionate about, infusing a touch of sophistication and creativity into every project. Surprisingly, some of my most rewarding collaborations come from clients who are open to suggestions, allowing me to unleash my creativity and bring their spaces to life. It's in these moments that I feel truly fulfilled, transforming uncertainty into pure magic.
41st Street project
Louise M. Neyer
Muirfield project
Q: What project stands out as your favorite?
Louise M. Neyer: Oh my gosh! I have so many. It's like asking me who my favorite child is. All my projects are my favorite, I have a unique connection and passion for every home that I design. With over 2,000 homes that I have transformed it is hard to pick just one.
Q: Regarding your Muirfield project & 41st Street project, who are these spaces for and how did their needs and preferences influence your design choices?
Louise M. Neyer: The clients for the Muirfield project are owners of a major real estate brokerage firm in Seattle, Washington. They desired a beach-like aesthetic for their new house, which originally featured Tuscan red and green walls. Upon seeing the property, I insisted on removing trees and a hedge that obstructed the view, resulting in a dramatic transformation that moved them to happy tears. The 5,000 square feet space features EFL furniture, including the Keaton daybed in the bedroom, which provides comfort for the perfect mid-day nap.
The 41st Street project, initiated during the pandemic in 2020, involved transforming an old Tuscan ranch-style house into a massive estate property on 3.5 acres. The owners, professional brothers from Orange County and New York, viewed it as an investment for high-end luxury rentals due to its desirable location. Over two and a half years, the property was expanded to include a 12-bedroom main house, a casita, and extensive outdoor amenities such as a million-dollar pool with a lazy river, putting greens, and pickleball. The design process involved meticulous attention to detail, including sustainability considerations and curating the property with EFL furniture. The project was featured in Architectural Digest and is designed to accommodate large gatherings while maintaining a livable space for the owners.
Q: If you could collaborate with any other designer, living or historical, who would it be and why?
Louise M. Neyer: For me, classic design isn't just a label—it's about enduring style that stands the test of time. I draw inspiration from various sources, flipping through Architectural Digest magazines for over three decades, focusing on what resonates rather than specific designers. Sustainability and longevity are key in my work; I aim to create designs that could have been done years ago, prioritizing durable, timeless products. While I find inspiration in my own creations at times, there's one individual I truly admire: Barclay. His minimalist, sophisticated design style, particularly in Orange County, resonates deeply with me. I appreciate his blend of classic and contemporary elements, as well as his personal and professional integrity. Barclay's elevated aesthetic and balanced approach make him both an inspiration and a genuinely admirable individual in my eyes.