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The Best Cities for Design: Must-Visit Travel Destinations for Modern and Contemporary Design Lovers
- Lorla Studio
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
The world of design is vast and full of creativity, innovation, and beauty. From the sleek skyscrapers of New York and Tokyo to the charming boutiques of Paris and Los Angeles, design destinations abound, each offering a unique perspective on the art of creation. At Lorla Studio, we believe luxury residential interiors in DC are enriched by global inspiration and design-forward travel. In this essay, we'll explore some of the best US and international design cities, highlighting a few spots to visit in each.
Best U.S. Cities for Design Enthusiasts
The US is home to some of the best cities for design with a diverse range of design styles, from the modern minimalism of the West Coast to the classic elegance of the East Coast. Here are a few design destinations worth visiting:
New York City – A Global Capital for Modern Design
New York City is a hub of design innovation, with a plethora of museums, galleries, and boutiques showcasing the latest trends and styles. Some must-visit destinations include:
The High Line: This elevated park built on an old rail line is a masterpiece of urban design, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and the city.
The Design Within Reach (DWR) flagship store: DWR is a leading retailer of modern furniture, and its flagship store in Chelsea is a must-visit for design enthusiasts.
The West Village: This charming neighborhood is filled with historic brownstones, trendy boutiques, and world-class restaurants, making it a design lover's paradise.
The Guggenheim Museum: Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this museum’s architecture is not the only reason to head to this Upper East Side destination. A continuous ramp winds its way up through the museum, providing an uninterrupted flow of movement and a unique way to experience art. The skylight at the top of the atrium floods the space with natural light, creating a dynamic interplay between light and art. Wright's philosophy of organic architecture is evident in the museum's design, which blends seamlessly into its surroundings. The museum's distinctive curved walls and smooth concrete exterior are notable features of its design. The Guggenheim's design creates a holistic environment where the building itself becomes part of the art experience.
We often draw on the refined elegance of NYC’s design culture when crafting sophisticated interiors inspired by New York design in upscale neighborhoods like Chevy Chase.
Los Angeles – Laid-Back Luxury and Clean Lines
Los Angeles is known for its laid-back, West Coast style, with a focus on clean lines, minimalism, and natural materials. Some top design destinations include:
The Getty Center: This museum is a work of art in itself, with stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the city.
The Design LA showroom: This showroom is a hub for design professionals, featuring the latest furniture and decor from top designers.
Abbott Kinney Boulevard: This trendy street in Venice is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, showcasing the best of LA's design scene.
LA’s mix of coastal minimalism and curated texture reflects beautifully in our coastal-inspired design for Bethesda homes.
Chicago – Where Classic Meets Contemporary
Chicago is one of the top cities for interior design lovers, steeped in design history, from its iconic skyscrapers to its world-class museums. Some must-visit destinations include:
The Art Institute of Chicago: This museum is home to an impressive collection of art and design, including works by famous architects like Frank Lloyd Wright.
The Merchandise Mart: This historic building is a hub for design professionals, featuring showrooms, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.
The Magnificent Mile: This famous stretch of Michigan Avenue is lined with high-end boutiques, department stores, and restaurants, offering a glimpse into the city's luxurious design scene.
Our interiors in Potomac often capture the same balance of heritage and innovation seen in Chicago's architectural legacy, classic meets modern interiors in Potomac.
The Best International Cities for Interior Design Lovers
Beyond the US, there are countless design destinations worth exploring. Here are a few international cities that are sure to inspire:
Tokyo – Harmony of Innovation and Tradition
Tokyo is a city of contrasts, one of the best cities for design lovers that blends traditional and modern design in a unique and fascinating way. Some top design destinations include:
The Tokyo Design Center: This complex is a hub for design innovation, featuring exhibitions, workshops, and events.
The Omotesando District: This trendy neighborhood is lined with fashionable boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, showcasing the best of Tokyo's design scene.
The Nezu Museum: This museum is dedicated to Japanese and East Asian art, with a beautiful garden and stunning architecture.
Paris – A City Steeped in Design Elegance
Paris is the city of love, art, and design. From its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to its charming boutiques and cafes, Paris is a design lover's dream. Some must-visit destinations include:
The Louvre Museum: This world-famous museum is home to an impressive collection of art and design, including works by famous artists like Leonardo da Vinci.
The Palais-Royal: This former royal palace is now a hub for contemporary art and design, featuring stunning gardens and innovative exhibitions.
The Marais Neighborhood: This charming neighborhood is filled with trendy boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, offering a glimpse into Paris's vibrant design scene.
Copenhagen – Scandinavian Simplicity at Its Finest
Copenhagen is seen as one of the best cities for design in Europe that embodies the principles of Scandinavian design: simplicity, functionality, and a focus on natural materials. Some top design destinations include:
The Designmuseum Danmark: This museum is dedicated to Danish design, featuring a collection of furniture, textiles, and other design objects.
The Strandgade Neighborhood: This charming neighborhood is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, showcasing the best of Copenhagen's design scene.
The Illums Bolighus store: This iconic store is a must-visit for design enthusiasts, featuring a wide range of Danish design products.
Final Thoughts on the Best Cities for Design
In all, these design destinations offer a wealth of inspiration and creativity, with memorable offerings across the board. Whether you're a design professional or simply a lover of beauty and innovation, these cities are sure to delight and inspire. So pack your bags, grab your sketchbook, and get ready to explore the world of design! Ready to bring global design home? Explore our full range of interior design services at Lorla Studio.
How You Can Work With Us
At Lorla Studio, a modern interior design firm in Washington, D.C, our talented team of designers craft modern, livable and functional spaces throughout the district and beyond. Hire us for a seamless renovation process, and a modern, approachable design you are sure to love!
Check out the five questions to ask yourself before hiring an interior designer in Washington D.C. If you think we’d make a good team, contact us today!
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