Jun 12, 2026 – 5.00amIn Los Angeles, where music and film producers mingle with Hollywood A-listers, interior designer Kelly Wearstler is frequently called on to conjure cool with the best of them. With a client list including Ben Stiller, Cameron Diaz, Cher, Elton John and Gwen Stefani, Wearstler’s ability to influence and reflect the American design zeitgeist is a prized commodity in a city overwhelmed by creative talent.Wearstler, 58, says her aesthetic, often pinned to the “more is more” end of the style spectrum, is not, in fact, definitively maximalist. “I did a couple of projects that were maximalist, but it’s funny, I wouldn’t even say I’m a maximalist.” The aim, she says, is to create “beautiful tension” – like that between the contemporary and historic, bold colours and restrained neutrals, or a whimsical piece of furniture set against solid architectural elements.Subscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Bonnie CampbellLuxury property reporterBonnie Campbell is the luxury property reporter at The Australian Financial ReviewFetching latest articles