This time in our Inspired By series we’re going to move away from photographers and focus on one of the greatest interior designers living and working today – after all, your canvas prints are integral to your own interior design style!

Philippe Starck was born in Paris in 1949 to an aeronautical engineer father who inspired him to think about the world as a designer. We’re focusing on his interior design ideas for this article, but Philippe’s vision was further reaching than that – he’s just as famous for his architectural and product design as he is for his interior work. 

Philippe has always approached his work with an enthusiasm and humour that balances out his desire to create ethically and ecologically-sound spaces and items. Everything he puts his hand to champions function over design… but never forgets that we all want to see beautiful things in our homes.

“Subversive, ethical, ecological, political, humorous… this is how I see my duty as a designer.”

It’s this humour and commitment to creating spaces that are functional and ethical, as well as beautiful and enjoyable to use, that set him apart from other interior designers. His work is never vain or pointless – he uses space and form to build designs that inspire, make the user think a little, and encourage a sense of freedom and fun. The question is how can you use his work as inspiration for your home?

When it comes to applying the ideas of Starck to your own living spaces we recommend immersing yourself in his work online to get a real feel for the way he creates timeless designs that perfectly balance function and fun. Of course, you may not be able to afford too many original Starck pieces, but if you’re bold and brave you can easily embody his ethos:

Follow these simple guidelines and your living space will soon have the feel and fun of a Philippe Starck design – and the process of putting it all together will have been much more enjoyable and stress-free than previous redesigns.