Diane Kappa
Meet World-Class Designer Diane! Diane is originally from the United States but now lives and works in Budapest. Diane’s patterns and colorways seen here on Alluminare are absolutely amazing. Graphic, vibrant, and colorful, her patterns range from a beautiful Moroccan medallion print and an inspiring floral to a bold retro bloom. As seen in her work, her influences range from European folk art to Asian textiles to flora and fauna. I had an opportunity to get to know Diane a little better to see what inspires and motivates her. Here is more about the talented artist behind the designs…
How does your design process start? In other words, how do you take your ideas and inspirations and turn them into the beautiful patterns we see on all the fabulous products here?
I am always sketching and painting. Some of these ideas develop into serious designs, others remain simple sketches. I enjoy creating a variety of work. For example, “Secret Garden”is hand-drawn with relaxed, flowing florals. “Moroccan Medallion” demonstrates precision and symmetry. They are two different designs…two different artistic mindsets.
Secret Garden Pillow in Chocolate & Light Hampton Blue
Moroccan Medallion Pillow in White, Spring Grass, & Shitake
What about your designs makes you the happiest?
I love seeing what started as a simple sketch applied to a product. Having my two-dimensional drawing end up on a three-dimensional object is very rewarding.
What do you think it is that makes your designs so appealing to designers and buyers?
I have a contemporary look without being trendy. I am always researching trends but I interpret them in my own way. Investing in a lamp with my artwork is a good decision as the designs are timeless.
Where and how do you envision your designs that are shown here in their new spaces?
This is one of my favorite designs especially in this colorway. I envision this in a home or restaurant where there is a large bay window or French Doors that open up into a garden area. This pattern brings the outdoors inside.
Secret Garden Custom Fabric in Chocolate, Aurora Red, & Croissant shown on Roman Shades
“Retro Bloom” fits well in a dining room over a large dark wood table. It’s a great way to add a bit of color and a retro design without being too trendy or kitsch.
Retro Bloom 24 Inch Drum Pendant in Classic Brown, Pale Turquoise, & Cream
Alluminare is unique because you have control over color and size. I love “Moroccan Medallion” printed on a large scale and a small scale pillow. The pillows are distinctively different yet compliment each other. The colors! The purple mixed with the cantaloupe takes you to India. It is a bit unexpected and cheerful!
How do you stay motivated creatively?
Creativity comes natural. My mother was an artist and so from a very young age I was drawing, coloring or playing with clay. Staying motivated creatively is not a challenge for me, I cannot imagine my life without art.
I do get burnt-out every now and then. My solution is to shut my laptop, get out of the house and take a break. Usually this works. I come home a few hours later refreshed and ready to work.
What is your go to color right now?
This is a difficult question. Color is such an important element of my artwork. (Ironic since 15 years ago I only wore black.) If pressed, I would have to say…cherry blossom pink and light sky blue with touches of cream. Imagine gazing through a cherry blossom tree in full-bloom framed by a beautiful blue sky.
Retro Bloom Custom Fabric in Cream, Baby Blue, & Classic Pink in Medium Scale
What design trends are you absolutely loving this moment? Which ones do you wish would go away?
I adore the trend of where old meets new. A mix of contemporary furniture with antiques for example. I appreciate homes where the furniture has a story, a history. When you mix the antique furniture with contemporary lamps and couches, you then create a personal feel that is warm and comfortable.
I am no fan of ultra modern homes. Homes with no pattern or color feel cold to me. They may look interesting, but I prefer to be in a home where I can take my shoes off and curl-up on the couch with a good book.
What is your favorite possession in your home?
I don’t own it yet! I am in search of an antique hand-painted Hungarian chest. The folk arts of Hungary inspire me. Traditional painted wood furniture makes my heart skip a beat. As you read this, I am searching the countryside for just the right piece.
Where is your favorite getaway spot or place to go for inspiration?
Outside. I know it is vague but I love to be outside. Whether I am sipping coffee surrounded by tall ornate buildings or sitting on a blanket in an orchard near a garden of flowers. If I can have it all? It is being outside near the sea.
My husband and I have a wonderful flat in Budapest with a charming rose garden. I am excited to expand my garden this year. I will have my own personal getaway spot right in my on backyard.
If you could meet any designer (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
I would say William Morris (1834-1896) and József Huszka (1854-1934). I admire the detail and symmetry of William Morris’s floral patterns. His book, Morris by Himself, shows paintings half-finished with his pencil drawings still exposed. I would love to watch him at work!
József Huszka is a Hungarian artist whose artwork is found on textiles, furniture and ceramics. His art is illustrative of Hungarian folk art. Bright colorful works with flowers and leaves with splashes of pink and orange mixed with reds and greens.
Thank you so much Diane!
Be sure to check out Diane’s website here.
Article by Michelle Salz-Smith ASID
Michelle is a licensed, award-winning Interior Designer enjoying her life in Southern California, but only after her many adventures in the Midwest and then the South. Michelle wears many hats: designer, wifey, blogger, teacher and red wine lover. When she isn't hanging out at Alluminare, she is sharing her musings and celebrating the inspired life on her blog, www.studio-surface.blogspot.com.
has written 26 awesome articles for Alluminare.
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