Katherine Power is the co-founder of the multi-mediapublishing company Clique Media, which includes DomaineHome (home decor), WhoWhatWear (celebrity style and runway trends), and Byrdie (makeup and beauty). Clique Media's flagship site—WhoWhatWear.com—is the leading online platform for premium original fashion and style content, reaching millions of readers each month.
Prior to the launch of WhoWhatWear.com, Power was the West Coast Editor for ELLE and ELLEgirl. Power is also the co-author of two books: Who What Wear: Celebrity and Runway Style For Real Life (Abrams, September 2009) and What To Wear, Where (Abrams, March 2011).
We recently had the privilege of providing some stylish lighting fixtures Katherine's newly renovated office. We also go to pick her brain a little and ask her all the serious questions about interior design.
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What was the inspiration for the office?
I wanted something really neutral with some European accents, and overall I wanted it to feel classic. Initially, I pulled a few inspiration images off of Pinterest, and then worked with the Domaine Home team to fine-tune the aesthetic.
What comes first for you, style or function?
Both : )
What were the key issues for the space and how were they resolved?
A lot of what I had, had been moved from office to office as we’ve grown over the years. Some of it felt trendy and dated and didn’t fit our new space. My job has also evolved with the company, and I needed a different type of workspace to accommodate all of the things I do here, from one-on-one meetings to brainstorming with 3 or 4 team members over a table of documents or photos.
In your opinion, how important is technology in an office environment?
Very! I actually had a flat screen TV installed that plays E! entertainment on mute, because I thrive in an ADD type of environment where there is a lot going on. I need constant stimulation — and it helps me keep up to date on pop culture! It’s also essential to me to have a large monitor for viewing art, and my iPhone is practically glued to me.
You choose a very elegant brass wall sconce for your makeover. What drew you to that piece?
I’ve always been drawn to brass. When I look back at photos of my childhood homes, we had a lot of brass hardware and accessories, and I guess I’ve carried that with me. It feels very rich and classic.
Mercer Single Light 19" High Aged Brass Wall Sconce (Black shade sold separately.)
We have can lighting, so to make the room feel a little more finished, we added sconces and a great pendant lamp that is plugged into one of the can outlets. It makes it feel a little more homey.
In most office spaces, storage always seems to be an issue. How do you stay organized and productive?
I have a white filing cabinet at one side of my desk and a very clean looking white console behind me. I wanted them to be simple, and almost disappear, but still hold things like files, office supplies, my printer, etc.
How do you go about deciding the arrangement of different elements in your office?
I really enjoy arranging accessories at home, but for this space, the Domaine team completely took over, and I absolutely love all of the vignettes they created.
What is the one item you cannot live without in your office?
My Eames desk chair. I had a lot of back problems before investing in a good chair, so I’m really glad that I did!
Which current trend(s) did you incorporate?
I have a French bistro chair that I picked up on a trip to the flea market with the Domaine team, as well as cowhide rug that’s layered over a jute rug. Those items feel very fresh and current to me.
What do you predict will be the next “hot” trend?
I guess we’ll all just have to read DomaineHome.com to find out :)
Ok, we’re all friends here, what is the biggest design mistake most people make in their office, and how can they correct it?
I think the biggest mistake is not taking into account what the rest of the office looks like. I wanted my own office to feel like it flows with the rest of the floor, not like I tried to create an entirely different environment. It’s personal, but it fits right in with everything else.
Thanks Katherine and congrats on the stylish new office space!
Image credits: Justin Coit for Domaine Home