Mark D Sikes, renowned interior designer, has released his third book, ‘Forever Beautiful,’ published by Rizzoli. While ostensibly a showcase of his work for notable clients like Nancy Meyers and First Lady Jill Biden, the book delves deeper, presenting a compelling argument for the unique evolution of contemporary American design.
Sikes points out that while European interior design has a centuries-long history of refinement and study, American aesthetics are still in a state of development. He explains, “We just don’t have a long history ourselves.” However, ‘Forever Beautiful’ offers a compelling case study for American style, contrasting it with the established traditions of Europe.
Sikes differentiates American interiors from their European counterparts, emphasizing the importance of livability. He draws parallels with iconic American designers like Mark Hampton and Billy Baldwin, stating, “Good American interiors – I think of people like Mark Hampton and Billy Baldwin that really created these American interiors that were not only inspiring and elegant, but they felt comfortable.” He emphasizes, “I think that’s what we try to do with our homes and hopefully with our body of work.”
‘Forever Beautiful’ is structured in 12 chapters, each representing a month. The book journeys through diverse locales, beginning with a home in Coral Gables in January and culminating in the Hamptons by June. It features homes in California, where Sikes resides, as well as properties in Georgia’s Lowcountry, Chicago’s suburbs, and Idaho’s Sun Valley. Notably, the book ventures beyond the borders of the United States, showcasing a house in Bermuda in August, demonstrating that Sikes’s design aesthetic transcends geographical boundaries.
‘Forever Beautiful’ offers a glimpse into the distinct and captivating aesthetic of Mark D Sikes, providing readers with a unique perspective on the evolution of American interior design and its emphasis on comfort and livability.
