Vanessa’s Story

Growing up in New York City, Vanessa was immersed in the art world from an early age, shaped by her father's life as an art dealer and the cultural rhythm of the city itself. Surrounded by galleries, artist studios, and exhibition openings, she developed an instinctive understanding of how objects, space, and context shape the way people live.

That sensibility is the foundation of Vanessa Katzen Design, a New York luxury interior design studio established in 2016. Art and architecture in conversation with daily life, considered, curated, and built to resonate long after the project is complete.

Vanessa Katzen, luxury interior designer based in New York City, photographed in a refined residential interior, showcasing an art-driven and elevated design aesthetic, photographed by Joshua McHugh

About the Studio

Creating captivating Living Spaces in New York, and beyond.

Our signature approach combines meticulous attention to detail with a passion for the unexpected, resulting in spaces that exceed expectations and resonate with discerning individuals. Explore our portfolio and discover how we transform dreams into tangible luxury.

“The details are not the details. They make the design.”

- CHARLES EAMES

  • Client Testimonial - Adam S. ~ Flat Iron, NYC

    “I have worked with Vanessa for two incredible projects: a three-bedroom apartment in Flatiron, NYC and a six-bedroom beach house in Montauk with a pool. Her talent and professionalism transformed both spaces into absolute masterpieces.

    For the Flatiron apartment, Vanessa perfectly captured the vibrant, urban energy of NYC while creating a warm, inviting home. She blended sleek modern furniture with cozy textures, using a sophisticated palette of soft grays, creams, and bold accent colors. The open-plan living area feels both spacious and intimate, with custom-built shelving and clever lighting that maximizes the space. The roof deck is now a showstopper—an outdoor oasis with stylish seating, lush planters, and ambient lighting perfect for entertaining or quiet evenings under the city skyline. Every detail, from the curated artwork to the bespoke rugs, reflects their impeccable taste and attention to our lifestyle needs.

    The Montauk beach house was a different challenge, and Vanessa nailed it. She embraced the coastal vibe without resorting to clichés, using natural materials like reclaimed wood, linen, and stone to create a serene, luxurious retreat. The airy living spaces flow seamlessly into the outdoor areas, with the pool deck becoming a chic hub for summer gatherings. Each of the six bedrooms has its own unique character, blending comfort and elegance with thoughtful touches like locally inspired art and custom bedding.”

  • Client Testimonial - Taylor T. ~ Tribeca, NYC

    “I can't rave enough about Vanessa. She has impeccable taste and a real knack for mixing high and low which makes staying within budget a reality. My partner and I have totally different style but she was able to make us both happy which was a miracle. Her aesthetic is eclectic yet clean and highly functional. In addition to her talent she is a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend her to all my friends and 100% work with her in the future.” Taylor Strecker

  • Contractor Testimonial - Prime Renovations Owner, Jeff S. ~ Upper West Side, NYC

    “I have worked with Vanessa on several projects in the last couple of years. As a general contractor I have worked with many designers over the years and I think Vanessa is one of the best. She has great taste and is a pleasure to work with. I would not hesitate to hire Vanessa.” Jeff


Interior styling detail in a Gramercy Park residence by Vanessa Katzen, coffee table with sculptural objects and refined materials, photographed by Frank Frances.

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