Lindsay Coral Harper’s career in interior design has been nothing short of dynamic. Starting from her college days, she interned at New York’s famed Decoration & Design (D&D) Building—a bustling, 18-story hub for the world of design.

This was her initial step into the interior design industry, and it would soon pave the way for a flourishing career. Harper’s unique approach to design, rooted in her love for vibrant colors, textures, and layered aesthetics, has since made her a sought-after name in the industry.

From Internship to Opportunity

The D&D Building, located at 3rd Avenue and 58th Street in Manhattan, is a landmark for designers seeking inspiration and high-quality materials. It’s where Harper first experienced the fabric and furnishings that would later define her own style. During her senior year internship, she worked at Carleton V Fabrics, a pivotal moment that shaped her future. While folding samples in the stockroom one day, she received an unexpected offer—a position in sales.

Instagram | lchinteriors | Harper’s journey began at the D&D Building in Manhattan, where she first encountered the fabrics and furnishings.

The timing was impeccable; Harper returned to Athens to graduate, then immediately headed back to New York to begin her new role. After a year, she transitioned to a position with renowned designer Richard Keith Langham, working there for eight years before setting out on her own in 2007.

Building a Signature Brand

Harper’s career trajectory took a defining turn when she launched her namesake design firm. One of her earliest clients was Carleton Varney, co-founder of Carleton V, who trusted her to design his Washington, D.C., home. Harper’s distinct approach—marked by her love for color, patterns, and a timeless style—quickly gained recognition. She describes her aesthetic as “approachable and timeless,” focusing on creating spaces where people feel comfortable yet inspired.

She’s known for crafting layered rooms that combine functionality with beauty, an approach that blends sophistication with ease. Harper explains, “I love color, texture, and patterns. I want rooms that feel lived in, where you can be comfortable without compromising style.”

Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success

Launching a design firm in a challenging economy was no small feat, but Harper’s dedication to her craft kept her business resilient. Despite initial struggles, her perseverance paid off when her work graced the cover of “House Beautiful” in 2011. This achievement was a moment of validation for her, representing a milestone that brought her work into the spotlight. Reflecting on that moment, Harper noted, “I was grateful for clients, but seeing my work featured felt like everything came together.”

Since that first cover, her designs have appeared in over 35 magazines, including “Southern Living” and “Elle,” with several of these placements as cover features. Her ability to balance elegance and comfort resonates with clients nationwide, establishing her as an influential figure in the design world.

Expanding Horizons in Stonington

After spending over two decades in New York, Lindsay Coral Harper relocated to Stonington, Connecticut, creating a new base for her firm while staying actively involved in various projects across the country. This shift didn’t slow her down; instead, it opened doors to expand her brand. In 2023, Harper opened a new chapter with the launch of Coral, her home decor and lifestyle store in Stonington. Coral showcases a curated selection of antiques, vintage finds, and reupholstered treasures, all handpicked by Harper. This new venture allows her to bring her creative vision to a broader audience and introduce unique pieces that reflect her aesthetic.

Her passion for traveling and sourcing one-of-a-kind items remains strong. From European flea markets to antique stores across the U.S., Harper is always on the lookout for pieces that can be renewed or repurposed. As she puts it, “Having a store gives me the chance to give pieces another life. It’s something most designers feel passionate about.”

Staying Connected to Her Roots

Instagram | lchinteriors | Harper is deeply connected to her hometown, Cartersville, Georgia, cherishing her family and heritage.

Though now based in Connecticut, Lindsay Coral Harper frequently returns to New York to connect with friends, check on design projects, and draw inspiration from her original design playground, the D&D Building. Her visits reinforce her ongoing connection to the place where her design career began. She continues to draw from the energy of the city, blending it with her new inspirations from Stonington.

Harper also maintains close ties to her hometown of Cartersville, Georgia. Family and heritage hold a special place in her heart, and recent trips back to Athens, where she graduated from the University of Georgia, are filled with nostalgia and family celebrations. Harper fondly remembers her time at UGA, tailgating at the Georgia Center, and making memories with her family.

Future Endeavors and Vision

Lindsay Coral Harper’s journey reflects her vision for creating beautiful, inviting spaces that transcend trends. She’s currently exploring new avenues in design, from considering a furniture line to potentially authoring a book. Harper’s approach to interior design remains consistent, with a focus on authenticity, comfort, and a bit of boldness through her signature love for color. Her work doesn’t just create visually striking rooms; it brings spaces to life, providing clients with a home that feels truly theirs.

For Harper, design is a passion, a journey, and an ever-evolving practice. With each new project, she brings her expertise and a fresh perspective, transforming rooms into reflections of those who live in them. Her story continues to inspire, reflecting how a passion for design and dedication to craft can create a lasting impact on both spaces and people.

Helen Hayward