As one of Los Angeles’ most sought after Interior Designers, Brigette Romanek of Romanek Design Studio has infused her fresh, yet soulful aesthetic into residential, commercial, and retail spaces in Southern California and beyond. But today, we’re experiencing one of her most stunning projects to date—her very own Laurel Canyon abode. The property once hosted the very best of rock legends and its walls are embedded with the sounds of epic albums recorded within. We sat down with Brigette to unveil how she honored the history of her home, how she got her start as a designer, and more.
Click here to see the full tour (with even more imagery) of Brigette’s beautiful home, originally captured by Nicki Sebastian for Rip & Tan!
Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a designer. How and when did Romanek Design Studio come to life?
About two years ago! I’d worked to help friends with their houses, then I decided to go make it official.
If you had to describe your design style like a cocktail, what would it be?
Great question! Hmm, Moscow mule. Something fresh but with classic flavors.
Your home is striking! It has an edgy sophistication that draws you in and makes you wonder—if walls could talk… Can you share a bit about the history of your property and how you honored it when designing your home?
Thank you, that’s really nice of you to say. There are so many stories about our house. It’s haunted, it’s Houdini’s mistress’s house… so many stories! What I do know for sure is that it’s a house that was filled with musical legends, from the Beatles to the Jimi Hendrix, The Chili Peppers, they all recorded in this house. It’s a soulful place. You can feel it. It would have been a shame to strip that away. So I embraced it and chose to highlight the history and quicks. That’s what makes it special.
What existing design element do you most love in your home?
The high ceilings, the wood paneling. I love, love it.
It’s a gift to do what you love, and if your work can bring joy to people in their daily lives in the process, it is triply rewarding.
Brigette Romanek
What part of the process do you love most while working with clients?
The install. When everything comes together and they see the place where they’ll live and they’re happy. That’s everything.
With travel as one of your muses, can you share the three most memorable locations that inspire your designs and why?
The English countryside, the south of France, Italy, I could go on…
What does your morning ritual look like? What are a few things you do to set the tone before you begin a busy day at RDS?
A quick workout (some mornings), checking in on my girls, coffee, emails, breakfast. Let’s go!
What does a ‘dream home’ mean to you? How can others achieve their own dream home?
A place people feel safe and warm. Surrounded by pieces, that make them happy. As I always say, a diary or love letter to yourself.
We’re not a big fan of the term ‘trends’, but rather prefer enduring (and recurring) design discoveries. Are there any timeless design elements you’re looking forward to using in your upcoming projects?
I don’t like that word either! Makes me want to run! There are some new furniture designers that are designing pieces that I think will become classics. I like placing pieces like that, with antiques and vintage pieces. Makes for a layered, cool room. So I’m always looking and researching. I’m in love with Pierre Paulin.
Do you have any favorite podcasts/books/resources that you’ve discovered during these past few months of change in our world that you recommend?
I’m a sucker for a good design coffee table book. I look forward to them every season. I think a good read is My Personal MBA. It’s helpful and encouraging to people who are going after their career dreams. Also, Keith Granet writes for people new to the business of design.
Can you share a few Instagram accounts right now that are fueling your creativity?
The Fascinator, Cabana Magazine, Rodarte, Arch Digest
Love what you see? Take a peek at the talent behind the story… Design: Brigette Romanek of Romanek Design · Photography: Nicki Sebastian for Rip & Tan
