Written by Natalie Aldridge.
Beloved for his effortless mix of West Coast charm, all-American style, and joyful approach to living well, designer Nathan Turner has long been a tastemaker who does it all and with such ease. From his sunny newly opened Los Angeles showroom to his fabric and wallpaper line, bestselling books, and famously fabulous dinner parties, Turner brings a sense of humor, and unfussy glamour to everything he touches.
A fifth-generation Californian with roots in a cattle ranching family, Turner’s aesthetic is as soulful as it is stylish. His work is grounded in tradition, yet always playful. He is truly classic Americana meets California cool. We caught up with him to chat about entertaining tips, everyday luxuries, and what’s on the horizon including a tour of his new showroom called NATHAN TURNER and another book we can’t wait to get our hands on.
Welcome, Nathan!
Showroom photos courtesy of Miha Matei.
Q: You’re known for your signature blend of West Coast ease and classic Americana. How did your design style evolve into what it is today?
A: So much of my style started at home. Growing up in California had a profound effect on the way I live and design. I think we live a little differently out here. There aren’t really any rules, which gives you a freedom to do what you want. I’m definitely more of a traditionalist, but with the ease of the California way!
Q: What elements do you return to again and again in your work?
A: I love color and prints. Obviously, my projects are dictated by what my clients want, but when I can, I love to use color and layers of pattern.
Q: We adore your beautiful new Los Angeles showroom. What was the vision behind the space, and how does it reflect where you are creatively right now?
A: I started in this business with a shop, so it’s in my blood. When I launched my California Collection fabrics and wallpapers line and started to get it stocked in showrooms, it was my pal Peter Dunham who suggested it. We were chatting about the new line and he said, “Why don’t you open your own showroom? You know how to do it.” I paused and immediately said, “You’re right!” Then the hunt for a space began. It’s definitely a more flushed-out version of my style than my previous shop. Having the fabrics and wallpapers allows me to create an entire world from my perspective, which is really fun—upholstery, antiques, interesting finds, and collaborating with friends!
Q: Entertaining is such a big part of your brand. What are your top three tips for throwing a fabulous, no-stress dinner party?
A: 1. Do as much as you can beforehand.2. Play up your strengths—if you don’t cook, hire a caterer. If you’re not great with flowers, get a florist. 3. Most important, be in the right frame of mind. Don’t do it if you’re having a stressful period in your life. As host, even though it’s a lot of work, you should be having fun and enjoying yourself!
Q: You’re a designer, shop owner, author, and entertainer. How do all these creative pursuits feed into one another?
A: I think it’s all connected. For me, it’s more about the big picture. Yes, I’m a decorator and want to have a pretty house, but what good is a pretty house if you don’t have a nice meal with pretty dishes on the table and preferably a dog or two underfoot? It’s all about living well. As a creative person, I never put boundaries on myself. If it’s something that’s interesting to me, I’ll give it a go!
Q: Where do you go when you need a creative reset?
A: Usually out in nature. Because I juggle so much, my brain can overload. I need to reset a lot. It’s a hike in Ojai, a walk on the beach. I love the outdoors and it always clears my crazy head!
Q: Describe your idea of everyday luxury.
A: I travel a lot, so everyday luxury is time at home. Being able to shop the farmers markets and cook a nice meal, set a pretty table, and enjoy it with my boyfriend or friends and family. This weekend I went to a local farm stand and bought a crate of strawberries. I made jam and buttermilk biscuits and shared with friends—the best!
Q: Do you have a favorite fictional home from film or literature?
A: So many! I find TV and film so inspiring. Being from a California cattle family, I love a ranch aesthetic. The houses from Year of the Dog, Giant, and Yellowstone stand out.
Q: Is there a go-to dish or drink you always serve when friends are over?
A: Can’t go wrong with a really good margarita and fresh guacamole!
Q: What are you working on next that we can look forward to?
A: My next book “I Love Decorating” will be out next spring!
Thank you, Nathan, for joining us today!
To learn more, please visit Nathan Turner and follow @nturnerdesign on Instagram for ongoing inspiration. We also recommend his books, Nathan Turner’s I Love California: Live, Eat, and Entertain the West Coast Way and Nathan Turner’s American Style: Classic Design and Effortless Entertaining.
And please make sure to visit the NATHAN TURNER showroom located at 725 N. La Cienega Blvd in West Hollywood the next time you are in Los Angeles!
x Natalie
Follow TGP on Instagram: @theglampad
Follow Natalie on Instagram: @natalieealdridge
