When it comes to interior design in New York, one name consistently rises to the top: Betty Wasserman. Since launching her design business in 1996, she has earned a reputation as one of the city’s most respected and sought-after designers. Her unique approach blends her background as a private art dealer with a deep passion for design and architecture. This combination led to a signature style that is both warm and minimalist. We had the chance to sit down with Betty and explore her journey—here's what she shared.
Betty’s entry into interior design was almost accidental. After a decade working as an art dealer in New York, she found herself helping a client design his new apartment when others had failed. “I said, ‘I don’t do that,’ and he said, ‘Yes, you do.’ I was like, ‘What do you mean? Yes, I do…’†she recalls. That first project sparked something in her, and she soon realized she loved the process. She took classes to refine her skills, learning everything from floor plans to ceiling designs. The result? A successful transition from art dealer to designer.
With her first project behind her, starting her own design firm felt like a natural next step. She already had an established art business and an assistant, so the transition was smooth. Today, her New York City studio in Chelsea serves high-profile clients, while her Hamptons residence and satellite studio are home to luxury projects featured in top design publications.
Designing in New York comes with its own set of challenges. “You have to be very smart about space,†Betty says. In a city where square footage is at a premium, every inch must be used wisely. Open kitchens, once rare, now reflect modern lifestyles that value interaction and flow. “Spaces need to function, look beautiful, and be durable,†she adds.
“The spaces have to function. They have to work well and they have to be beautiful, and they have to be bulletproof.†– Betty Wasserman
One of Betty’s favorite projects is her own loft in Southampton. “It wasn’t the biggest or the most expensive, but it was personal and meaningful. I loved working with my builder, and I enjoyed the whole process so much that I was sad when it was over,†she says. After searching for houses for more than a year, she decided to build her dream home from scratch, bringing her vision to life.
“I always try to be involved in the architectural process because architects often design from the outside in, while designers think from the inside out.†– Betty Wasserman
Despite over 20 years in the industry, Betty shows no signs of slowing down. While she plans to take on fewer big projects, she still loves what she does. “I can’t imagine not doing this because I truly love it—it doesn’t feel like work at all. I feel lucky, and I always tell my daughter: whatever you choose to do, make sure you love it. Otherwise, you’ll wake up one day and wonder what you’ve been doing all those years.â€
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