Rooms by Thomas Jayne always reflect a strong connection to history and place. He draws upon their past for inspiration, seeking details that will deepen and enliven their decoration. Whether the locale is a Soho loft in a late 19th century industrial building or a historic Federal house built by a New England whaling merchant, the settings become part of the narrative, their history providing the impetus for the design.

Thomas Jayne reflects, “I have always been attracted to history and to objects linked with it. I find their connections and evolution fascinating.” For him, the emphasis is on discovering relationships and associations that add texture, richness and depth, the elements that lend a room its spirit and character.

While that is the cornerstone of his philosophy, it filters through a clear eyed view of present day expectations. “I like old things, but I want them to look fresh – and that often comes from looking again at the old source and rethinking it in color, shape and juxtaposition”. In practice, that means translating engaging ideas into tailored, comfortable houses or apartments that suit the current needs of the client, whether they be young families or advanced collectors. Hence, the catch words for Jayne Design Studio: Decoration: Ancient and Modern.

Jayne brings a varied and extensive educational background to his work. He studied architecture and art history at the University of Oregon where he received a Bachelor of Architecture, and then continued on to Winterthur Museum, earning a Masters degree in their graduate fellows program in American Material Culture. After his academic work, he pursued fellowships at the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Historic Deerfield and J. Paul Getty Museum before finding his way to Christie’s Estates and Appraisal Department. From there, his exposure to architecture and the decorative arts naturally lead him into interior design. He was fortunate to have his start in the field at two of the most influential design firms in America, Parish-Hadley & Associates and Kevin McNamara, Inc., before setting up his own firm, Jayne Design Studio, in 1990.

In addition to his well regarded practice, Thomas Jayne is a noted author, frequently writing on historical themes in art, architecture and decoration. His book, The Finest Rooms in America, was published in November 2010 by Monacelli Press to great acclaim. A monograph of his work, American Decoration, has just been completed and will be published in late October 2012 by Monacelli Press. He also prepares a weekly post for his blog, Decoration - Ancient and Modern.

Jayne Design Studio is featured on Architectural Digest’s current AD100 list of best American Decorators and Architects.