Image: DECORATION by Bunny Williams & Elizabeth Lawrence
Join the ICAA and the NYSID for DECORATION with Bunny Williams & Elizabeth Lawrence. In this conversation, moderated by Anne Hardy, Bunny and Elizabeth, partners behind the legendary design firm Williams Lawrence, will discuss their new publication and their approach to creating memorable—and unexpected—interiors.
DECORATION opens with personal reflections from Bunny and Elizabeth about their early design inspirations and the philosophies that now animate their work creating homes and interiors that are meant to last. In an early section titled “How to Use This Book,” they encourage readers to approach the rooms and stories collected in DECORATION as a scrapbook of inspiration to ignite the imagination and experiment in their own spaces. From there, DECORATION showcases a variety of new Williams Lawrence interiors, all richly photographed, including a home for a growing family that incorporates deeply personal touches, like curtains from the client’s childhood home; a sleek, modern apartment that plays with sculptural furnishings and contrasts wood, marble, and other unexpected materials; and even a new modern international office building that incorporates a jungle-like garden terrace and incredible art collection.
Woven throughout the photos are personal anecdotes, intimate essays and practical design tips advice written by Bunny and Elizabeth, making the book not only a luscious visual tome, but a masterclass from the best in the business. They walk readers through how to train one’s eye to recognize proportion, authenticity, and potential; how to cultivate design inspiration through travel and visits to flea markets and galleries; and how fantasy and color can bring a sense of play and storytelling to the design process. They explore texture and layering, and detail and their approach to sourcing pieces slowly and deliberately, favoring patience and discovery over instant “one-and-done” decorating. Throughout, DECORATION celebrates interiors that are livable, approachable, and that will stand the test of time.
Bunny Williams is not only one of the most talented names in design, but is also an accomplished businesswoman and philanthropist known for balancing refined beauty, welcoming livable appeal, and attention to detail. One of Architectural Digest’s “AD100 Hall of Fame” members, Bunny is consistently named on various best-of lists, including Elle Decor’s A-List and Luxe’s Gold List, and has won numerous awards, including the New York School of Interior Design’s “Albert Hadley Lifetime Achievement Award.” Bunny is the author of eight design books and is a sought-after speaker and mentor on decoration, gardening, and entertaining. Her business includes Williams Lawrence; Bunny Williams Home, the firm’s line of furnishings, lighting, art, and accessories; and licensed product lines with Ballard Designs, Lee Jofa, Dash & Albert, Currey & Company, Mirror Home and Modern Matter. Bunny and her husband, the antiques dealer John Rosselli, split their time between New York City and their iconic country house in Connecticut. Follow Bunny @bunnys_eye and see more of the firm’s work @williams_lawrence_interiors and williamslawrence.com.
Elizabeth Lawrence has spent her career designing projects across the country, from Manhattan to Palm Beach to California. Since being named Bunny’s business Partner in 2017, which led to the renaming of the firm as Williams Lawrence in 2023, she and Bunny have run the Bunny Williams umbrella of brands together. Originally from Wilmington, Delaware, Elizabeth attended the University of Richmond and then the New York School of Interior Design. She was honored by The New York School of Interior Design at their annual gala in 2020 and her work has been widely published in The New York Times, Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Veranda, Galerie, House Beautiful, and many others. A few of her current projects include a new country estate, a glamorous New York City townhouse, a Palm Beach getaway and a young family’s apartment overlooking Central Park. Elizabeth and her family live in New York City. She posts snap shots of her work, travels, tablescapes, great design finds, and other adventures on her personal Instagram. Follow her @elizabeth_m_lawrence and see more of the firm’s work @williams_lawrence_interiors and williamslawrence.com.
Thank you to our Interior Design Series Sponsors:Lindley Martens DesignTimothy CorriganTammy Connor Interior Design
Thank you to the ICAA's Book Club Sponsor:Foster Reeve: Architectural & Ornamental Plaster
Lead Annual Public Programs Sponsor: RINCKSeasonal Public Programs Sponsor: Dell Mitchell ArchitectsSeasonal Public Programs Sponsor: Hyde Park Mouldings