Luxe Magazine Feb 2021
Written by Brittany Chevalier Mcintyre | Photography by Leslie Unruh | Link to Article
BILLY CEGLIA
Ever Clever
True inherent style is an unerring and unapologetic point of view that can be translated into every aspect of an individual’s life. It informs everything the possessor does and has—from the way they answer the phone, welcome you into their home, dress, and of course, decorate their living spaces. In my own homes, I try to create a sense of ease and comfort to welcome guests—adopting small details like leaving the door unlocked and arranging empty hangers in the coat closet for their garments. I have a “help yourself” attitude when it comes to refreshments or anything in my home. If you need it, it’s yours for the taking.
Since I adhere to such a tight design lexicon of simple materials and shapes, and a relatively limited color palette, it has jokingly been said that my favorite color is “plain”—and I happily own that. While I appreciate the ornate and complex, my personal preference always circles back to a level of simplicity with a touch of the unexpected or tongue-in-cheek. It could be a few books with funny titles, such as Avery Monsen’s All My Friends Are Dead (a particular favorite), or a subtly subversive piece of art in an otherwise sober room.
These same details are also a part of my wardrobe. What appears to be a classic menswear pattern could be made up of thousands of cartoon mice, or the lining of a jacket could be painted with illustrations from Albert Lamorisse’s The Red Balloon, with a secret message under the collar to “follow me.” Similar to my streamlined fashion choices, my interiors are filled with simple and practical fabrics, tailored furniture and timeless details that reflect an enduring point of view. This leaves room for my personality, which is neither “plain” nor uncomplicated!
