Timeless Influence: How Antiques Shape Generational Design

Alexander D. Wilson is a boutique interior design and decoration firm based in New York City. Alex began his work in design a decade ago, and has become known for specializing in sophisticated and comfortable spaces that are characterized by an adept use of color, pattern, and references to the past. Each interior project is infused with a keen attention to modern sensibilities perfectly fusing tradition with contemporary living.
In 2024, Alex was named ‘Design Darling’ by Frederic Magazine with the publication of his own Upper East Side apartment which coincided with the launch of his namesake firm. Current projects range from private residences in New York, North Carolina, Colorado, Florida and Connecticut.
Originally from North Carolina, Alex studied Historic Preservation & Community Planning at the College of Charleston in South Carolina and completed graduate programs at Parsons School of Design and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts’ Summer Institute. Alex’s southern roots inform his design sensibilities with an understanding of gracious living which is reflected in his work throughout the country. Prior to starting his own firm, Alex spent eight years working with
the renowned Ashley Whittaker Design, three of those as the firm’s Studio Director. Alex’s work has been featured in Frederic, Veranda, House Beautiful and AD Italia.

CeCe Barfield Thompson

CeCe Barfield Inc.. is a full service interior design firm based in New York City and San Antonio, Texas. CeCe Barfield Thompson, a former Senior Designer at Bunny Williams, Inc, launched her eponymous firm in October 2016. She holds a Master’s Degree from Pratt Institute in Interior Architecture and also completed course work in Historic Preservation.

Beginning her career at Vogue, CeCe specializes in crafting spaces that are high in style, but not in pretense.  CeCe creates sophisticated, fresh and one-of-a-kind living spaces — using old, new, inherited and found pieces — that carefully marry the designer’s style with the client’s individuality.

Rudy Saunders is Design Director at Dorothy Draper & Company, America’s oldest continually operating interior design firm. Based in New York City, he designs vibrant residential interiors and oversees hospitality projects including The Greenbrier and Grand Hotel, while also contributing to furniture, textile, lighting, product, and event design, plus retail buying and merchandising for Dorothy Draper Home.

Originally from Cincinnati, Saunders earned a BS in Interior Design from the University of Cincinnati’s DAAP. He previously worked at Lilly Pulitzer and Bolce Interior Image and launched the R! by Rudy needlepoint collection with Lycette Designs in 2020. An active educator and needlepoint advocate, he is also deeply involved with numerous cultural and charitable organizations.