When it comes to setting the tone for the ultimate luxury interior design experience, AARON B DUKE sets the bar high. After all, how many interior designers greet their clients with a box of the richest, most decadent chocolates and a bottle of champagne? For Mr. Duke, this customary and often surprising introduction helps set the tone for his timeless and unique approach to luxury design. The Agency recently sat down with Mr. Duke to learn more about his creative process and how he strives to make each project a personal and memorable experience for his clients.
When conceptualizing a project for a client, what are some of the most important elements you feel need to be addressed?
The most important factor with every project I work on is making sure every home tells a client’s story. Who are they? What holds significant value to them? How do they live? What do they like to do in their free time? What’s their favorite color? I immerse myself in their lives and soak up as much information about their interests as possible to create an unforgettable experience for them.
What are some of the biggest inspirations in your creative process?
The world around me is my inspiration. My local and international travels have allowed me to immerse myself in art, history, architecture, culture and so much more. Los Angeles, for example, is experiencing a Renaissance in the visual and performing arts, so I frequent galleries and museums to stay connected to local art and historical content.
What is one of your favorite materials to use?
I love leather, and I have a secret source that I use to get naked hides, which are untreated and over time will wear and patina, adding additional character to the overall design.
Define what luxury means to you.
Luxury design is the world around me. It’s a sensual, experiential journey that includes a multitude of components. It’s look and feel, quality and craftsmanship, texture, the service you receive, the money you pay and many other factors. Overall, it’s about gaining an unforgettable experience that you often can’t quite put your finger on, but you know it’s special.
What is one of the projects you’re most proud of and why?
I recently worked on a 12,000-square-foot, classic Mediterranean home in Bel Air. It’s one of my favorite projects because the clients were phenomenal and appreciated all of my efforts. They put complete trust and honor in my vision for their dream home, which made it a true collaboration. The contractor and tradespeople committed to providing excellent service, quality, and craftsmanship. It was a magical experience that I am grateful to have had the opportunity to experience.
How would you define your legacy?
Most importantly, I want my legacy to be my personality, character, and values. Without these traits, the design doesn’t matter much to me. I want people to remember me for the man I am, for how I treated them and how I made them feel every single day.
For more information about AARON B DUKE, and to view more of his work, visit AARONBDUKE.com.
