Douglas Graneto is in the business of making homes beautiful. Whether designing spaces for clients in Manhattan, Connecticut, the Hamptons, Miami, the Caribbean, or beyond, he creates enduring, nuanced environments that improve over time and embrace his clients’ personalities.
Graneto has 25 years of experience and began his career in custom furniture, specializing in antique restorations as well as the design fabrication of modern furniture. Today, as founder and principal of his eponymous interior design firm based in Greenwich, he is widely recognized in the industry for his talent for juxtaposition. Time and time again, his projects elegantly blend vintage and modern elements to present inspiring residences.
The award-winning, and often jet-setting, designer recently found time to sit down and give us insight into his world. From his process with clients to his current favorite trend and advice for aspiring designers, Graneto has plenty of wisdom to share.
Tell us a bit about how you got your start in architectural and interior design. Looking back, were there any milestone moments or influences that led you down this path?
I studied Art History in college with the intention of working in the art world, but when I moved to New York I was fortunate enough to get a job with acclaimed interior designer Tony Ingrao. I ended up working for him for the next 10 years. He had a wonderful way of looking at spaces, and was a major influence in how I view design and architecture to this day.
What is your design philosophy and design process like? What can clients expect when they work with you?
I walk into every project with an open mind. I love to see the existing space, how the client lives, and how they would like to live. I’ll ask them to pull images of anything that appeals to them, not just interior design related, but any imagery at all. Even with seemingly unrelated images, I find there’s usually a common thread that helps me identify the client’s personal aesthetic or design style. My aim then is to create the very best version of whatever that may be, one that is true to the client and fits their lifestyle.
When your clients aren’t sure of their personal aesthetic or the direction they want to go in with their property, how do you help them discover the style that would make them happiest?
What clients often find helpful is to be presented with a small number of schemes/styles/shapes to choose from. A lot of people are able to more easily identify what they don’t like, rather than articulate what they do. Going through this process helps us find the client’s ideal style.
How does your keen knowledge of art history and experience with custom-designing furniture—and restoring antique furniture—impact your work with clients today?
In Art History, the focus is on great paintings through the ages and recognizing the value in different styles. I find furniture to be similar, in that each era has produced great designs. A client may have a favorite design period, but we can find wonderful pieces no matter the preference.
Given a limitless budget for a project or a room in a designer showhouse, what kind of things inspire you most right now?
I’m most inspired by really creative, well-crafted furnishings. I love discovering and working with artisanal makers. There’s an artist in Tennessee who makes the most wonderful carved furnishings, who I’ve loved collaborating with recently. I’m also excited by the fantastic, midcentury-inspired designs coming out of Brazil and Italy right now.
In your opinion, which design elements or architectural changes are worth splurging on and where might you advise restraint?
I believe that layering pieces from different periods makes design interesting, which gives a great deal of freedom in terms of where to splurge or not. You might choose to invest in a fabulous vintage rug, but then choose less expensive furnishings, or you could use more modest base layers and add one-of-a-kind custom elements.
The key is in how you combine them for the overall effect. People often think that vintage items will be high-ticket purchases, but they don’t have to be expensive in order to be interesting and attractive.
Let’s talk design trends. Although you are known for delivering timeless, enduring interiors that are tailored to your clients, what are some emerging trends you are excited about?
I think the return of color in the kitchen is a trend that’s fun to explore. A clean, crisp white will always be classic, but there are a number of interesting ways to bring color in, whether it’s a unique backsplash, or through warm wood cabinets. There’s so much scope, from the subtle to the bold. I think it’s a trend that’s accessible to all tastes.
How would you characterize your own home’s style? What feeling do you like to create in your spaces and why?
I like my own spaces to be warm and inviting. I want every person who steps into my entryway to feel welcome. In the living room, I enjoy a sense of calm, while the family room is all about relaxation.
When you’re not in designer mode, what are some of your favorite things to do to unwind or recharge creatively?
Cooking is my way of relaxing. There’s nothing I enjoy more than spending several hours cooking up something delicious, like a slow-braised shoulder or fresh homemade pasta. Traveling is my other essential activity. Vietnam was a great adventure recently. I’m looking forward to an upcoming trip to Italy to explore new design resources, and we also have a family trip to a dude ranch in South America that we’re excited about.
What are some moments you’ve especially cherished since founding Douglas Graneto Design and what are you looking forward to in the future?
One of my most cherished moments since starting my own firm was winning my first Connecticut IDA award. I felt it was such a milestone in establishing me as a designer, and it was also a boost to my own confidence in my abilities.
As for the future, I’m currently working on a book on design and spaces. The idea is to use my own designs to showcase how to combine personal tastes and aesthetics in different ways. It’ll be a study in how good design complements the way people live.
Lastly, what advice do you have for interior designers thinking of starting their own company?
My advice to upcoming designers is, firstly, to learn to listen carefully to your clients. If you can nail what they’re really looking for, you have a high chance of success. Secondly, believe in yourself, and have the self-confidence to make the leap into starting your own business.
On any given day, Graneto might be making site visits to his projects ranging from 48,000-square-foot manors to 2,000-square-foot apartments, out shopping for a client, or at the office putting together design schemes. Every day is different, but the results of his finely-honed craft are always the same: Exceptional, livable homes that captivate.
With years of experience navigating all kinds of projects, locations, and special scenarios, Graneto also draws praise for his project management skills. He is described by architects, builders, and clients as a team player and talented problem solver.
To see more from the Greenwich-based designer and learn how you can work with Douglas Graneto Design, visit douglasgraneto.com.