David Hicks was one of the most celebrated and talented in a long line of British interior designers, and whose work is a source of inspiration for many of today’s foremost contemporary designers. Born in Essex in 1929, David attended the Central School of Arts and Crafts, graduating with honours.  

His career in interior design blossomed when the London home he decorated for himself and his mother featured in House & Garden magazine in 1954. His signature look of bold contemporary colours and classic furniture found favour amongst the rich and famous both at home and abroad.

We often overuse the word ‘passion’ to describe an artist’s love for their medium, but that’s certainly not hype when it comes to David Hicks. His genuine passion for all things design often meant that he spoke his mind rather freely!  

I never sit in a chair, choose a fabric, admire or criticize my family's clothes, without being intensely aware of what I'm looking at. Dedication to design means ruthless criticism and losing friends."  

Of course, he didn’t lose many friends because his effervescent nature and showmanship meant that he was in high demand throughout the 60s and 70s. His philosophy revolutionised interior design for stately homes and other institutions with a reputation for playing it safe. Bold, clashing colours coupled with beautiful antique furniture, often mixed with geometric designs and wildly inappropriate sculptures and curiosity pieces where his forte. When Hicks designed your space there was no need to advertise it – it was obvious to everyone!

How do you take the lavish and grand design ideas that David made his signature and apply them to your own modest living space? It’s certainly possible because we’ve seen a move back towards more expansive, fun and free interior design models over the past few years, with many contemporary design icons looking to Hicks for inspiration. 

Play with scale – Adding one or two oversized pieces to a room adds drama, so don’t be afraid to place a huge sculpture in the corner of your room!

Ignore colour wheels – If you’re going to be bold and brash do it properly by throwing colour caution to the wind. Clash those colours like an explosion in a paint factory!

Mix philosophies – Don’t be afraid to combine classic furniture with clean, contemporary lines and shapes.

Geometric shapes – Huge in the 60s and 70s, geometric shapes are back in fashion, so take advantage with your wallpaper, rugs, or even a few huge geometric canvas prints as talking pieces.  

Revamping your home is always an exciting experience, and taking your cues from one of the greatest interior designers in history is a great way to end up with a fantastic space. Add a little David Hicks magic and your home will be the talk of the town – for all the right reasons!