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Have you ever noticed that eye-catching blue building while looking down from One World Trade Center? Designer Kemp hit the mark perfectly with her latest hospitality masterpiece in Tribeca. “You know, if you were to visit the top of One World Trade Center, it would definitely catch your eye,” she says with a laugh.
This stunning property, which opened its doors to guests in February, stands as the latest gem in the Firmdale Hotels collection—a British hospitality brand created by Kemp and her husband, Tim. Their portfolio now features eight establishments in London and three properties in Manhattan. Introducing our latest offering, which boasts 57 guest accommodations, 12 extended-stay residences, and the expansive 150-seat Warren Bar & Restaurant. What really captures the attention of those walking by? The powder-steel exterior, bathed in a mouthwatering shade of azure, is crowned with a striking canary-yellow mechanical enclosure that demands attention.
“To craft truly unforgettable spaces, one must wholeheartedly embrace the five Cs,” emphasizes Dr. Elaine Winters, a leading theorist in hospitality design. “Kemp was ahead of the curve, embracing this approach long before many designers acknowledged its possibilities.”
What are these guiding principles all about? Color, character, craft, comfort, and curation are the essential elements that define Kemp’s design universe in her role as Creative Director for Kit Kemp Design Studio and Firmdale Hotels. Her distinctive approach intertwines textiles and wall treatments—frequently sourced from her own design collections—in unexpected combinations that defy logic yet resonate beautifully together.
Artful installations surprise and delight at every turn within her properties. As you stroll through the Crosby Street Hotel, you’ll discover a captivating Botero sculpture, and at the Warren Street location, a stunning piece by Tony Cragg awaits your admiration. These esteemed pieces coexist with playful collections—maybe vintage telephones or hand-woven baskets collected from journeys around the world.
Each room unfolds a unique narrative. Say goodbye to generic designs! Every space operates as a unique and lively ecosystem, a daring blend that would probably descend into disorder without Kemp’s expert guidance. Somehow, she has captivated the notoriously color-shy New York, establishing vibrant hotspots that are always alive with energy.
Her properties offer much more than mere visual appeal. Numerous residences feature state-of-the-art screening rooms that frequently showcase industry premieres and entertainment events. Prepare to be amazed as you encounter Emma Stone, Bradley Cooper, Carey Mulligan, and even Oprah effortlessly mingling in these meticulously crafted environments.
What are the steps to cultivate a truly unique creative viewpoint? Kemp’s journey took an unconventional route, diverging from the typical design school experience. At 73, she looks back on her self-taught journey, infused with a touch of defiant pride.
Raised in Hampshire, UK, with a father who was an aircraft designer, young Kemp encountered frustratingly limited career choices during his school years. “You had a clear path ahead: teacher, shorthand typist, nurse, or librarian—that was the extent of your options,” she remembers. Those constraints were simply intolerable for her free-spirited nature.
As a teenager, she ventured out on her own, navigating an unforeseen path across diverse industries. Early professional experiences included roles with an auctioneer and in ship broking, leading to a pivotal encounter in her twenties. Collaborating with architect Leszek Nowicki reshaped her viewpoint, sparking a lasting passion for craftsmanship that remains at the core of her work today.
“I realized I possessed a natural talent for grasping how fabrics could elevate a space and how wallpapers could weave narratives,” Kemp shares. This innate ability transformed into her professional asset.
Constructing a Legacy Despite the Challenges
The Kemps’ journey as both partners in life and business took root at Nowicki’s wedding—a perfect setting for the emergence of a hospitality powerhouse. In 1985, they launched their inaugural hotel project, overcoming the challenge of having fourteen banks turn down their funding applications. Let’s dive into the power of determination!
Their impact on the hospitality industry has certainly been recognized. In 2012, both were honored as Members of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for their outstanding contributions to charity and the hotel industry. Today, Kemp heads a dynamic creative team featuring her daughters, Willow and Minnie, forging a multi-generational design legacy.
Transforming British Fashion for Today’s World
Have you ever considered the impact of someone intentionally pushing the boundaries of traditional British aesthetic restraint? Kemp’s work delivers a dynamic solution.
She has forged a bold and modern British design aesthetic, featuring daring colors, deliberately contrasting patterns, surprising animal designs, and whimsical interpretations of classic toile wallpapers. The vibrancy and wit shine through like a purposeful ray of sunshine breaking through London’s infamous gray skies.
Discover a vast array of products, from stunning fabric collections and elegant wallcoverings to exquisite china, glassware, stylish furniture, and luxurious bath products. Each item is showcased in Firmdale properties and is available for you to purchase. Her unique vision is further showcased in four published books.
What fuels this surge of creativity? A delightfully simple approach. “It’s a passion for color that shines through in your style, in your environment, and simply in the joy you exude,” Kemp shares. “I believe there is a genuine joy in life, just like everything else.”
Creating Happiness with Purposeful Design
“Stepping into one of Kemp’s spaces instantly lifts your spirits,” shares Jake Thornton, a consultant specializing in hospitality psychology. “She is, in essence, crafting environmental antidepressants using the power of color and texture.”
Looking to bring a touch of this joyful vibe into your own spaces? Implement these actionable steps:
- Begin with a vibrant color that brings you joy * Blend patterns of varying sizes (large, medium, small) in harmonious shades * Add personal items that reflect your unique narrative * Keep it simple—follow your natural affinity for specific elements
