Famous Designers & Icons
David Hicks
David Hicks (1929–1998) was a British interior designer who revolutionized postwar decorating with his bold use of geometric patterns, unexpected color combinations, and confident mixing of antique and modern furnishings. His geometric carpets, tablescapes, and room compositions brought a graphic, energetic quality to traditional English interiors that influenced designers worldwide. He published several books that documented his distinctive approach and helped popularize modern decorating principles.
Hicks's influence on interior design lies in his fearless approach to pattern and color and his demonstration that traditional rooms could feel contemporary and vital. He proved that geometric patterns could coexist with antique furniture, that bold color could feel sophisticated rather than garish, and that a well-designed tablescape could transform a room. His legacy lives on in the work of his son Ashley Hicks and in every interior that dares to combine strong pattern with collected, eclectic furnishings.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Revolutionized use of geometric patterns in interiors
- ✓Combined antique and modern furnishings confidently
- ✓Created bold, unexpected color combinations
- ✓Designed signature geometric carpet patterns
- ✓Elevated tablescaping as a design art form
- ✓Made traditional English interiors feel modern and energetic
Types & Variations
Geometric carpet designs
The Grove estate interiors
Hicksian tablescapes
Bold-colored drawing rooms
Published design books and style guides
Common Materials
Custom woven carpetsLacquered surfacesAntique furnitureBold printed textilesBrass and chrome accessoriesLacquered walls
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Start with a geometric rug as the foundation of a Hicks-inspired room. Layer antique and modern furniture over it, and create a carefully composed tablescape with objects at varying heights. Use one bold wall color to anchor the space.
💡 Pro Tip
David Hicks's secret was that his bold patterns and colors were always grounded in sophisticated proportion. When using strong geometric elements, ensure the scale of the pattern relates to the room size—larger rooms can handle bigger repeat patterns, while small rooms benefit from tighter geometrics.