The A List: Michelle Nussbaumer

With offices based in Dallas and Switzerland, Michelle’s interiors combine a fearless use of color and reflect an eclectic, yet timeless mix of bold patterns and influences from around the world to create her unmistakable signature style. In 2009, she was honored as one of Elle Decor's ‘Five Leading Women in Design’ and one of her projects was named one of Veranda’s ‘25 Most Beautiful Rooms’.Globe-trotting Nussbaumer channels her style and inspiration from the places she has lived and traveled such as Italy, Asia, Mexico, Switzerland, Morocco and India. Elle Décor has called her “a fearless style monger known for her dizzying trove of antiques and signature line of furniture and lighting”. Nussbaumer's Dallas showroom Ceylon et Cie is home to her furniture collection Ceylon et Cie Portfolio, her eponymous Michelle Nussbaumer Fabric line, a modern interpretation of classic ikats and indigenous patterns and prints, and celebrated Rock Candy line of jewel-encrusted boxes and trays. A collection of 18^th, 19^th and 20^th century antiques and textiles are also showcased from her exotic travels. Michelle has collaborated on various projects including wallpaper with Gracie Studio, Mexican glassware, Delft tabletop, a Gwyneth Paltrow Goop pop-up shop, plus modern wallpaper with the Newlon Collection. Michelle’s travel and design blog “Dreaming in Color” and her design projects are the inspiration behind her book, Wanderlust, available now with Rizzoli.

​Importance of Craftsmanship: 

Sadly, craftsmanship seems to be a waning art. I think it’s important and a personal mission to keep these craftsmen and artisans working and giving them projects to inspire them in new ways.

What does Made in Italy mean to you?

Having lived in Italy for many years when I was first married with a young family, I got to know firsthand what made in Italy is. Fine craftsmanship, beautiful woods, whimsical details, and a complete dedication to beauty, both past and present.

Who (or what) has inspired your work and style? 

Mother Nature is the best colorist. I am also super inspired by the designs of Henri Samuel and Renzo Mongiardino. Two maximalists.

Describe your design approach

My design approach can be synthesized in: "More is more. Less is never more. Less is obviously less."

What is the one element of design you can’t live without?

The element of design I can't live without is unadulterated color!!!

What is in your opinion the ultimate luxury?

To me ultimate luxury is more time and freedom.