Design elite gather for elle decor's a-list toast
Manhattan's La Mercerie buzzed with a rare energy Tuesday night: the world's leading interior designers and decorators, typically scattered across continents, convened under one roof. It wasn't just a party; it was a celebration of creativity and a glimpse into the future of design, hosted by ELLE Decor to honor its 2026 A-List.
A garden party aesthetic meets high design
The evening unfolded like a summer garden dream. Guests, including luminaries like Annabelle Selldorf and Robert Couturier, arrived adorned with purple dahlias pinned to their attire, a charming detail against the backdrop of La Mercerie’s exquisite setting within the Guild. Champagne flowed freely, sparking conversations that ranged from upcoming projects to the burgeoning design trends poised to dominate the coming months. It was a gathering of titans, a chance for established names like Sara Zewde and Tom Scheerer to connect with rising stars like Reinaldo Leandro, half of the acclaimed Ashe Leandro duo.
The dinner itself was a culinary masterpiece, echoing the garden theme with dishes like haricots verts, bouillabaisse, and the classic chicken vol au vent, culminating in a delightful strawberries and cream dessert. But the true feast was the exchange of ideas. Legal eagle turned decorator Delia Kenza engaged in lively discussions with designer Young Huh, while Leonora Hamill, known for her London-based flair, found herself connecting with Leandro over shared inspirations.
Stellene Volandes, ELLE Decor's editorial director, captured the essence of the evening, noting that La Mercerie's inherent beauty served as a potent reminder of the power of exceptional design and the individuals who bring it to life. The atmosphere, she observed, was one of shared passion and mutual respect, a rare and valuable commodity in any industry. The room pulsed with a tangible excitement, a collective anticipation for another year of groundbreaking design and, even more importantly, the continued camaraderie of this extraordinary group.
The event wasn't merely a networking opportunity; it was a testament to the human element behind the polished facades of our homes, a recognition that true design is born from imagination, humor, and a deep appreciation for the craft. As the evening drew to a close, one thing was clear: the 2026 ELLE Decor A-List isn’t just shaping the future of interiors; they’re defining it, one exquisitely designed space at a time.