The jet-setting designer reveals how he stays inspired and adds a sense of theater, drama and whimsy to each design project he tackles.
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The Kips Bay Showhouse in Dallas, Texas. Photo by Douglas Friedman.
Interior designer and creative director Ken Fulk has conceived some of the most memorable homes, restaurants, hotels, bars and clubs in his 30-plus year career. In his tome, Ken Fulk: The Movie in My Mind, (Assouline), Fulk showcases his signature blend of cinematic flair and layered, personality-packed spaces. But his talents transcend decor. The Virginia-born designer, elevates the daily lives of each of his clients, from creating their homes and jets to drumming up spectacular birthdays, weddings, dinners and family getaways.
We caught up with Fulk as he prepares to open his first store in West Hollywood to explore his design process and what keeps him inspired.
When did you realize you wanted to be a designer?
I grew up knowing that I was different and that I saw the world differently. However, I never equated this with becoming a designer. As a young kid, I innately understood that our lives could be enriched if we set the right stage and orchestrated each occasion. Whether that be a simple Sunday supper, elaborate holiday rituals or the frequent re-imagination of our living room.
What were those first signs of creativity?
By the age of six I was choosing my own clothes from the local haberdasher as well as selecting my mother’s dresses for her. I was in charge of most holidays from the decor to the often elaborate productions.
How did your family entertain?
My parents owned restaurants when I was growing up. Hospitality is literally in my blood. Entertaining was important but no one lived on a grand scale; though my mother often said that I suffered from illusions of grandeur.
How do you begin each project?
We start every project with words. I was never trained as a designer and have no technical or drawing abilities. As such, from the earliest days of my career I have begun our projects with a story. I call these stories movies and the book is called The Movie In My Mind for that very reason. This script then becomes the guiding force for the work, and we bring it life with visuals.
What was your first project?
A friend hired me to decorate their new apartment. It was a penthouse with incredible views of San Francisco. They gave me carte blanche but a minuscule budget. As such, I did nearly everything myself from sewing drapes to sanding floors. I painted every surface white. It was like being on a cloud floating over the city. From there it was as if a faucet turned on and suddenly, I had jobs in Chicago, Martha’s Vineyard and the south of France.
Favorite resources?
The Paris Flea is still an all-time favorite as is Brimfield in Western Massachusetts. Favorite shops include Obsolete and Blackman Cruz in L.A. and De Vera in NYC.
What’s the secret sauce in your practice?
It’s not simply how something looks but how it makes you feel. It’s everything that happens in a space: from the sound, to the smell, to the glass your drink arrives in–and most importantly the people that bring it to life.