Tete A Tat With Steven Rodel
Not many of our Tête-à-Tats start at La Famiglia, but it seems like a suitable place to begin when your subject is as charming as Steven Rodel. This was the case two weeks ago, on the sunniest day of the year so far. I went to meet the new (ish) Creative Director of one of the interior world's most esteemed design studios: Guy Goodfellow.
After an illustrious career at Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler—where he became the youngest director—Guy Goodfellow founded his own design and architectural practice in 2002. Since then, he has created extraordinary global projects, many of which you won't even catch a flicker of trim, as these are homes belonging to some seriously ritzy names, where privacy is as carefully guarded as the interiors are curated.
A few years ago, one of these said projects happened to be just around the corner from one of Steven’s. This proved the catalyst for their partnership. It was here that Goodfellow was able to witness firsthand the quality, creativity and expert eye Steven applies to his work. I must admit, I’d known this for some time—not through any great journalistic instinct, but because one of my greatest friends assisted Steven for several years. They worked on some remarkable projects, which will never be seen by the public, as they belong to clients whose homes are never casually shared on Instagram or even considered for publication. And in all honesty, I can quite understand—but it does mean that great swathes of the Rodel portfolio are lost to the thirsty eyes of the public.
Our loss is undoubtedly their gain. But for those clever enough to visit WOW!house last year, would have seen the spectacular room that Steven and Guy created—a marvellous way to announce their new partnership. It never ceases to amaze me, the level of detail that goes into these rooms, but this one was seemingly on another level. The craftsmanship was unlike much I’ve seen with my own two eyes, and I doubt there could be a better calling card for this next chapter in the Guy Goodfellow story.
There are interior designers who follow trends, and then there are those who understand that a well-designed room should feel as if it has always been that way. Steven Rodel falls firmly into the latter category. As Creative Director at Guy Goodfellow, he brings a deep respect for architectural integrity, blending period details with the kind of understated comfort that defines the best British interiors. Whether he's restoring a London drawing room or expertly layering textures to a country house, his work speaks to a love of craftsmanship and an appreciation for the quiet, enduring beauty of good design.
It was a true pleasure to catch up with Steven, and to have him take part in Tête-à-Tat. I left La Famiglia all the more convinced that the future of elegant, considered British interiors is in very safe hands indeed.
Favorite restaurant?
Racine’s, Paris. always.
Do you believe in ghosts?
I don’t think so… I hope I’m not proved wrong!
Do you like surprises?
In theory, no—I like to be in control. But I got a fabulous surprise gift from my partner for my 40th birthday which has completely transformed my way of thinking, so maybe just on very rare occasions.
Favorite poem?
Call me a philistine - I’m not into poetry! But Molly Drake's "I Remember" is basically poetry.
Best piece of advice you’ve received?
"Assumption is the mother of all fuckups." One of my first bosses told me that, and he always professed to it being coined by Angelo Donghia. I liked that design connection. As a designer today, I know how true it is—assumptions can derail everything.
Biggest pet peeve?
People who ask, “Are you busy?” It’s just lazy small talk, and usually a precursor to them being able to tell you how unbelievably busy they are.
If money were no object, what painting would you own?
If the Met ever had a yard sale, I’d take Bashi-Bazouk by Jean-Léon Gérôme. I’m drawn to portraiture and the richness of Orientalism and beautiful textiles—this one has it all.
Top destination in the UK?
Newport, Pembrokeshire. Sheer natural beauty.
A language you’d love to speak?
Portuguese, for a deeper connection to my partners family. French because it's chic.
If you could live in any era, which would it be?
The roaring 20’s – think bright young things! Interior designer, of course!
A song that always makes you tap your foot?
You're So Vain by Carly Simon.
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