The classically-inspired New York home of Alexa Hampton 

New York based interior designer Alexa Hampton is no stranger to the design world, having taken over the design firm of her father, designer Mark Hampton. Take a tour of her home with Artsper and discover her eclectic yet classically inspired design style, her favorite contemporary artists as well as tips for quickly refreshing your home. 

1. Hello Alexa! How would you describe your interior design style? Furthermore, where do you draw your inspiration from at the start of a design project? 

My style is eclectic. However, I am drawn to classic forms, and I prefer logical spaces to impractical ones. Interiors that combine great beauty with livability are always the goal.  I am inspired daily by my surroundings, travel, family, clients and colleagues. Even on the internet (lord love instagram!), there are so many beautiful design images available that I am always one click away from being inspired. However, the real first step to any project is meeting with the client and getting a sense of how they live and how they would like to live. After all, where they live must reflect who they are.

Rich colors add an element of warmth and elegance to the space

2. What was the design project in your portfolio that you are most proud of?

That's like choosing between my children. I love all of my projects! But I would say that my favorite project is my dream/ theoretical country house. That will be my favorite project. I have so many ideas for it already. I hope one day it comes to fruition. 

3. How do you incorporate artworks into your design work? What links can be established between art and design? 

Art is an essential element of any beautiful house. It must engage and delight the homeowner and it must be accounted for in the process of designing the interiors. If my clients already own art, it becomes an essential element for me in the design process. 

4. If you had to pick 5 artists as sources of inspiration, who would you pick and why?

 Well, I certainly think Walter Gay and John Singer Sargent's painting evoke a sense of atmosphere that I find beyond beautiful. For example, I would love to live inside one of Gay's interior paintings. Massimo Listri and Celia Rogge are two fine art photographers whose photos I frequently use in my work. I use them in a structural way to expand a room into a historic space. I find the effect transportive. For this same reason, I love the work of Pierre Bergian, who paints loose, historic interiors in an extremely painterly style. They are to die for. 

Evoke classicism through regal Grecian inspired sculptures

5. Are you an art collector yourself? If so, which works of art can be found in your home? Which works of art would be your dream to own? 

I own all of the living artists mentioned above. My mother owns a Walter Gay, given to her by Bill Blass. It is a painting that one day I hope to steal. And, if anyone wants to give me a present, I'd be happy to receive a Titian, a Manet, a Bronzino or a Hammershoi. My birthday is in April- feel free to mark your calendar.

6. Which artistic venue or cultural center anywhere in the world do you find the most inspiring?

Certainly the Louvre, the Quai d'Orsay and the Met are among my favorite places. It is the John Sloane museum, though, that haunts me most. I'd happily live within its walls forever. 

7. And finally, what advice would you give to someone who wants to update their home, but who is short on time? 

Focus on the portables: artwork, pillows, throw blankets, bedding, books and decorative accessories! Adding layers and decorative items is a quick way to change up a home fast. Then, there is always a can of paint. 

Gallery walls create a statement focal piece that adds character to any room