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Categories
Interior Design
Services & Specialties
Warm, modern interior design
RECOMMENDATION
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4.5
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WORK QUALITY
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COST EVALUATION
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VALUE ANALYSIS
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ADD YOUR REVIEW
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FR Review:
With high spirits and an appreciation for both the future and history of interior design, Amy Lau works with, clients to create tasteful yet lively homes. Her work, often characterized by mid-century furniture and warm color palettes, can be loosely grouped under the banner of warm modernism. However, Lau’s playful use of materials, her love of vintage fabrics and her ability to “just have fun with a project” put her in a class all her own. She is noted by clients for working well with existing pieces, especially if she can put them to unexpected use. She is also noted for an ability to pair seemingly random pieces in a way that somehow makes complete sense, especially when it comes to fine art (a magpie collector herself, Lau will occasionally speak of “curating” a client’s home as opposed to decorating it).
Lau’s CV includes a degree from Sotheby’s Fine and Decorative Arts program, time spent working for Thomas O’Brien, and a productive stint at the Lin/Weinberg gallery. She formed this boutique company (originally called “Forms of Design”) in 2001. With a staff of seven full-time employees and a brood of interns, she oversees anywhere from four to eight projects at a time. References report that Lau immerses herself in her work, constantly turning over ideas in her head, on the clock or off. She is also noted as a tenacious project manager who holds vendors to their word; if that entails refusing to leave an upholsterer’s office until he delivers the promised goods, so be it.
Some clients are on their third or fourth project with Lau, but she actively takes on new work, generally with a budgets starting at $150,000 to $200,000. The firm charges a higher upfront planning fee and a lower markup on product, reflecting its principal’s emphasis on unique design, not excessive shopping. Overall, the price tag reflects the couture nature of the work: not a bargain, but commensurate with its singular quality. Lau does not have a “typical” client, but most share her enthusiasm for design as art. Indeed, those with a strong sense of personal aesthetic and a willingness to explore it often end up having the best experiences with the firm, not to mention the best results. Featured in "AD 100" three times since 2018.
Representative Client Comments:
“Coming in with her high heels, she is always glamorous and very self-confident. But she did not hesitate to take off those heels, put on a pair of socks and go up a ladder as plaster fell from the ceiling.” “Phone calls and emails are returned immediately. I appreciate that level of service.” “The word that comes to the top is ‘fun.’” As Amy found a beautiful pillow, a throw, or piece of art, you really felt she had an intimacy with the artist or artisans behind it.” “Her sense of color is a gift.” “The bathroom looks and feels lovely. The slabs are exceptionally beautiful and I particularly appreciate the thought partnership on that choice. It’s more than we’d wanted to spend, but one of those differences that really does make a statement.” “Amy obviously has an expertise in the mid-century period, but I believe our apartment is an eclectic combination of beautiful things that show nicely together.” “Amy works very well with creative people.” “I will admit that it was an expensive undertaking, but I wouldn’t have done it differently if I had another chance.” “She’s going to finish the job within your budget.” “Amy simply made our lives so much better. I can’t even imagine what it would have been like without her!”
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