PRINCE OF PANACHE
What do Sir Elton John, Cher and Eva Mendes have in common? Martyn Lawrence Bullard, a US-based interior designer. Here’s a peek into his new LA store.
Can eclectic be stylish? Can ethnic pieces sit pretty in a contemporary environment? Can modern luxury mean comfort? According to London-born, Los Angelesresident, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, the answer to all these questions is a resounding yes. For those not in the know, Hollywood A-listers pay 50-year-old Bullard a fortune to decorate their homes. In fact, he is currently working on both Kendall and Kylie Jenner’s homes and putting the finishing touches on actor Melissa Rivers, super model Alessandra Ambrosio and actor (from
Grey’s Anatomy) Ellen Pompeo’s habitats. He also works on commercial projects. “I’m completing my biggest hotel project yet—the Hotel California in Santa Barbara that will open this summer. I
am also working on a boutique hotel in Hollywood where no two rooms will be alike,” says Bullard. The good news is that Bullard has recently unveiled his showroom, Martyn Lawrence Bullard Atelier below his renowned design studio on Melrose Avenue, LA.
WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT
“I decided to open the store as a brand extension of not only my design studio, but also as a window into my world, the first space that would show all my product lines together, giving a true picture of my aesthetic and design inspirations,” says Bullard. The interior designer waited decades to open his store. “I have been thinking about a showroom for a long time. When the shop below my offices became available it seemed like not only the perfect spot, but also the right time to do this,” he explains.
WHAT’S IN STORE
The store has on display Bullard’s furniture collection with many new finishes and upholstery options, alongside vintage designer items that he has collected and carefully vetted. “My porcelain collections, glassware, home fragrances and jewellery will be set against my wallpapers and fabrics which decorate the space as I would a home,” he says. Lighting he designed in Venice is hung from the ceiling alongside 1960s and 70s Murano glass pieces. You can also get your hands on exclusive photography collections by Cheyenne Randall, Greg Lotus and Gino Sullivan.