Celebrating the Art of Suzanne Kasler’s Sophisticated Simplicity

We’re revisiting Suzanne Kasler’s Sophisticated Simplicity in joyous anticipation of Edited Style which launches soon! When I reviewed this beautiful book in 2018, I was seriously ill and on a highly restricted diet. I was constantly hungry and needed as many fat-free diversions as possible. The work of digging into design books was a refuge. So as you read, keep in mind it was years ago, and things are better. Prepare for elegant design goodness!

A tailored white kitchen with design by Suzanne Kasler. White walls and weathered grayarmoires. Custom black hood with metallic detail over range. The French pastry table was found at 1stdibs. Belgian chairs in rustic linen. #suzannekasler
From Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018); Photo: Peter Vitale. In an elegant home in South Carolina, a tailored white kitchen with interior design by Suzanne Kasler. White walls and weathered gray armoires. Custom black hood with metallic detail over range. The French pastry table was found at 1stdibs. Belgian chairs in rustic linen. In case you crave pretty, traditional, and timeless interior design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed!

Celebrating the Art of Suzanne Kasler’s Sophisticated Simplicity

From 2018: You know those clickbait titles we often see online that inevitably involve numbers? 50 WAYS TO LEAVE YOUR LOVER & STYLE A SHELF and so forth? This post with inspiring projects from an esteemed Atlanta-based designer could have just as easily been entitled:

Elegant and breathtaking blue bathroom by Suzanne Kasler in SOPHISTICATED SIMPLICITY (Rizzoli, 2018). #luxuriousbathroom #frenchbathroom
@Suzanne Kasler, Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018)

101 REASONS TO IMMEDIATELY ORDER THIS BEAUTIFUL BOOK!

Reasons #1 through 101 would simply read:

BECAUSE. Suzanne Kasler.

Suzanne Kasler is known for her award-winning projects featured in Milieu, Architectural Digest, Veranda, House Beautiful, and beyond. She has signature furniture collections and textile lines for Hickory Chair, Visual Comfort, Ballard Designs, Lee Jofa, and La Cornue.
Suzanne Kasler is known for her award-winning projects featured in Milieu, Architectural Digest, Veranda, House Beautiful, and beyond. She has signature furniture collections and textile lines for Hickory Chair, Visual Comfort, Ballard Designs, Lee Jofa, and La Cornue.

Why are we so excited about a new book from this magician? Because another beautiful book of breathtaking projects by designer Suzanne Kasler is a boon for the whole world of interiors.

Suzanne Kasler designed elegant bathroom in Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018). #elegantbathroom #bathroomdesign
@SuzanneKasler, Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018)

What to Expect Inside SOPHISTICATED SIMPLICITY

If you’re familiar with her rooms, then you know why this volume is truly a big deal.

The spaces are flawless; to be studied and savored slowly like a gourmande sampling a richly complex, gourmet chocolate. (Why, yes, kittycats. I am starved half out-m’mind at the moment as I am presently unable to tolerate solid food. More sweet and savory references within this post seem as inevitable as the deliciousness in my pantry remains inedible!!! Boo! J’ai besoin de chocolat maintenant!)

Sophisticated Simplicity by Suzanne Kasler - book cover.
The cover of Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018). In case you crave pretty, traditional, and timeless interior design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed! Interior Designer Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity.

Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018) is destined to thrill you to pieces whether you desire to better train your already sophisticated design eye or simply indulge it with a scrumptious feast of interior loveliness. (Mercy…there I go again.)

Suzanne Kasler’s Sophisticated Simplicity

First, the book’s rich photography is more gorgeous than you can imagine. Second, I was enthralled by the commentary straight away since Kasler reveals details about her upbringing and personal influences shaping her journey.

Beautiful and luxurious bathroom designed by Suzanne Kasler with peony pink accents.
From Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018). Photo: Peter Vitale. The architect designed the homeowner’s vanity which resembles a vintage sideboard or dresser. “We lacquered it white and found the most stunning, overscale, vintage Baguès sconces and dressed the room in pink taffeta curtains,” notes Kasler. In case you crave pretty, traditional, and timeless interior design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed!

How Suzanne Kasler’s Upbringing Formed Her Sensibilities

The Atlanta-based designer grew up in the Midwest in a military family who moved every couple of years.

(Like Kasler, I also grew up in the Midwest as the child of parents who worked for a religious organization which uprooted us with frequent moves…we were always starting over.) Her father, James H. Kasler, was a fighter pilot for the United States Air Force and a prisoner of war in Vietnam for seven years. (Thank you for your service, Mr. Kasler.)

What a precious homecoming this veteran’s return must have been!

In a breathtakingly restored 1927 Buckhead home with interior design by Suzanne Kasler, a new side entrance is painted the palest of pal ice blues. Architecture: Spitzmiller & Norris.
From Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018). Photo: Erica George Dines. In a breathtakingly restored 1927 Buckhead home with interior design by Suzanne Kasler, a new side entrance is painted the palest of pale ice blues. Architecture: Spitzmiller & Norris. In case you crave pretty, traditional, and timeless interior design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed! Interior Designer Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity.

Naturally, I was anxious to keep devouring the text and images, noting how Midwestern sensibilities from Kasler’s early life may continue to nuance the designs she creates for clients.

Self-care and forgiveness inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio by Audrey Kitching. #forgiveness #selfcare #quotes

I pondered how the beauty to which she is drawn has been influenced by the time she spent as a child in Indiana. (Something else this Indiana-born blogger shares in common with her…do you suppose she is familiar with the unforgettable pastries found at Mr. Freshie?)

I'm just a girl standing in front of a salad asking it to be a donut. #quote #humor #hellolovelystudio
Suzanne Kasler’s Sophisticated Simplicity

Wisdom Within the Interior Designer’s Book

There is also wonderful design wisdom to glean alongside all of the stunning examples of country homes, city houses, and residences by the sea in Sophisticated Simplicity.

For example, I for one am always curious about an interior designer’s approach to color.

Here’s what Kasler says about using color in her Buckhead project (p.75):

“You can sequence color strategically throughout a house, but it doesn’t have to be obvious. The subtle reference to coral shows up in room after room in different guises–in the pattern of a curtain fabric, as pillows, in a bouquet, as cording. In the rooms that are mostly shades of bone and neutral, the coral color really stands out.” – SUZANNE KASLER

Don’t you love such a subtle approach to a sophisticated color palate palette?

Aside: What Kasler terms as ‘coral’ on these pages, I am seeing as peach or pumpkin-y goodness. However, we shall indeed yield to the peepers of the award-winning design goddess and not to those of the ‘fairy blogger of the growling tummy.’

In an architecturally magnificent home in Maine with interior design by Suzanne Kasler, the master bedroom is bright and full of light. The tranquil pale blue grey accents and soothing sumptuous fabrics set a peaceful tone in the heavenly retreat.
From Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018). Photo: William Waldron. Architect: Les Cole. In an architecturally magnificent home in Maine with interior design by Suzanne Kasler, the master bedroom is bright and full of light. Additionally, the tranquil pale blue grey accents and soothing sumptuous fabrics set a peaceful tone in the heavenly retreat. In case you crave pretty, traditional, and timeless interior design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed!

Secrets to White Decor

Since readers of Hello Lovely SIMPLY MUST KNOW the designer’s philosophy about white decor, I thought you might appreciate hearing a few of her thoughts concerning the use of white in design.

“When you do a house in neutrals and whites, one of the prettiest ways to make the rooms come alive is to play texture off texture.” -SUZANNE KASLER

Anne Lamott inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #inspirationalquotes #annelamott #lifequotes #encouragementquotes #grace

For example, in a lovely breakfast room photographed for the book, you’ll find the beautiful paneled walls, window trim, and window seat trim painted a high gloss white. Pale and natural woven shades also filter the light and add texture along with buttery chestnut hued leather upholstered seats and pillows.

(Butter my biscuit…the upholstery on beautiful built-in banquettes on page 120 looks toffee-delicious enough to eat!)

In an architecturally magnificent home in Maine with interior design by Suzanne Kasler, the enclosed porch is attached to the main house. Linen curtains give the exterior room the feeling of an interior room. Bold blue and white stripe rug, various printed fabrics on rattan chair cushions, and blue garden stools are classic coastal design elements offering a warm welcome with cool tones.
From Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018). Photo: William Waldron. Architect: Les Cole. In an architecturally magnificent home in Maine with interior design by Suzanne Kasler, the enclosed porch is attached to the main house. Linen curtains give the exterior room the feeling of an interior room. Bold blue and white stripe rug, various printed fabrics on rattan chair cushions, and blue garden stools are classic coastal design elements offering a warm welcome with cool tones. In case you crave pretty, traditional, and timeless interior design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed!

What have we learned from all the gushing and lip smackin’ design sophistication enticing us here?

OUR DESIGN LIBRARIES ARE HUNGRY FOR THIS SATISFYING MENU OF TIMELESS DESIGN! 

C’est délicieux!

– Hello Lovely Studio

At a Palmetto Bluff property with interior design by Suzanne Kasler, an iconic Low Country dock is the ultimate place to sit, have a drink, and watch the sun rise and set. Adirondack chairs, a rustic three-legged stool, cozy knit throw, and simple lanterns are the recipe for relaxation.
From Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018). Photo: Erica George Dines. At a Palmetto Bluff property with interior design by Suzanne Kasler, an iconic Low Country dock is the ultimate place to sit, have a drink, and watch the sun rise and set. Adirondack chairs, a rustic three-legged stool, cozy knit throw, and simple lanterns are ingredients for relaxation. In case you crave pretty, traditional, and timeless interior design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed!

Order Your Copy!

You’re going to want to live in the pages of this new book, and I wish we could meet in a tranquil spot like the one above to dish about its beauty.

The cover of Suzanne Kasler: Sophisticated Simplicity (Rizzoli, 2018). In case you crave pretty, traditional, and timeless interior design inspiration…certainly lovely indeed!

You may be familiar with Suzanne’s collections at Ballard Designs:

Suzanne designed a furniture collection last year inspired by my favorite Paris neighborhood: Le Marais:

Can’t wait for Suzanne’s new book!

Brené Brown quote about empathy, courage, boundaries and vulnerability on Hello Lovely Studio. #empathyquotes #selfkindness #brenebrownquotes

Find more classic design inspiration HERE and HERE!

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

Thanks for shopping RIGHT HERE to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!

Hello Lovely is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing
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26 Comments

  1. September 5, 2018 / 1:12 am

    I hope you’re feeling better!
    Looking at these photos, I’m struck by how yes, they are simple and uncluttered, but they don’t feel bare. Sometimes I see rooms that feel “undone” or “not yet done,” like the residents are still settling in, even though there’s a lot more stuff. Maybe it’s the scale of the furniture, which often is too big. I guess that’s why Suzanne Kasler is so successful–she has the eye for balance and scale.

    • michele
      Author
      September 5, 2018 / 8:08 am

      She is definitely a queen of editing – can you even imagine that task when in many cases, there is no budget and you have access to it ALL? Thanks for reading! Not feeling better and another doctor appointment today.

  2. Laurie
    September 5, 2018 / 8:46 am

    Prayed for you this morning. What a beautiful post today! Love Suzanne.

    • michele
      Author
      September 5, 2018 / 8:04 pm

      Thanks so much, friend. I feel so blessed and uplifted by the prayer and support. What a community of faithful, lovely, kindred spirits it is!

  3. September 5, 2018 / 9:38 am

    Michele, I just love this post!!!!!!!!!!! Suzanne is one of my favorite designers!!! She is so talented! That pale blue side entrance looks just gorgeous! Thank you for this inspirational post! xo Greet

    • michele
      Author
      September 5, 2018 / 8:03 pm

      Thank you for reading and adding your beautiful energy to the topic, Greet! Not sure if the book is in your hands yet, but you are going to be THRILLED! 🙂

  4. Beth H
    September 5, 2018 / 7:07 pm

    I hope you’re feeling much better and getting answers as to the reason for your illness! I’m a GI nurse and understand only too well how hard this has been for you. Prayers and well wishes for healing so you can get home and take care of yourself in your own way!

    • michele
      Author
      September 5, 2018 / 8:02 pm

      Thank you for the prayers – you are so kind. You know how these things take time since they involve tests. I am hoping the cause will be the least serious possibility! I’m at home, and there’s no place like home. 🙂

  5. lynne richmond
    September 5, 2018 / 7:44 pm

    this prayer was sent to me in the summer of 2005….. it served me well through countless chemo and radiation treatments…..it was on my niece’s refrigerator through a devastating miscarriage until she gave birth to her first child…. it is still there….. i hope it gives you comfort in the days ahead….praying for your healing and the decisions of your medical team…. blessings, lynne

    I said a prayer for you today
    And know God must have heard…
    I felt the answer in my heart
    Although He spoke no word.
    I didn’t ask for wealth or fame,
    I knew you wouldn’t mind,
    I asked Him to send treasures
    Of a far more lasting kind.
    I asked that He’d be near you
    At the start of each new day
    To grant you health and blessings
    And friends to share your way.
    I asked for happiness for you
    In all things great and small
    But it was for His loving care
    I prayed the most of all.

    • michele
      Author
      September 5, 2018 / 7:57 pm

      So beautiful and such a gift. Thank you so much for the reminder I am in His loving care. I had more energy today and visited a very kind doctor. I can see blessings and am recovering my sense of humor so I cannot ask for more. 🙂

      • lynne richmond
        September 5, 2018 / 9:08 pm

        i just sent you the prayer; but i had a thought that i had to send along…… not knowing a thing about your symptoms or onset of your problems, is there any chance that you might
        have been bitten by a tick??? the reason i am asking is because a friend of ours has lyme disease and it took FOREVER to diagnose….( i do believe that lyme disease was dismissed initially by one doctor; so therefore tons of time was spent pursuing too many dead ends….) i just had to suggest this possibility to you….. hopefully to save YOU some time!!!!!!! blessings, lynne

        • michele
          Author
          September 6, 2018 / 1:33 am

          Thank you so much for your kindness in mentioning this – so important to be reminded of lyme disease. I will keep it in the forefront of my mind. I did go on several hiking trips. I think because I have a history of Crohn’s disease, the main question is am I experiencing a bad flare or do I have gallblader disease, pancreas issues, an infection or something new? I’ll keep you posted and am so grateful for prayer. xox

          • lynne richmond
            September 6, 2018 / 5:51 pm

            i forgot to say that i love suzanne kasler’s style….. i always look for her section in the ballard design catalog!!!!!

          • michele
            Author
            September 6, 2018 / 7:07 pm

            I love her Ballard pieces too!

  6. September 6, 2018 / 6:35 am

    Hi Michele, I’m very excited about Suzanne’s new book! I’m still enjoying her last one. I hope that you can eat solid food soon, you’re going to be too thin! I’m praying for your healing and a cure, with God all things are possible ❤️

    • michele
      Author
      September 6, 2018 / 11:17 am

      It is frustrating to not have all of the answers when you want them. However, I am encouraged today since I feel more like myself. I ate some solids yesterday and did not have an attack so am celebrating that!

  7. Kristin Dimmich
    September 6, 2018 / 7:43 am

    Good Morning Michelle,

    Praying for you today. These posts from your readers are God’s love letters to you. When our son died I had a friend tell me the cards I would receive in the mail were God’s love letters to me. She had walked the same sad journey years before. It really helped me to think about them in that way on I hope it helps you too.

    Love, Kristin

    • michele
      Author
      September 6, 2018 / 11:15 am

      Beautiful, Kristin. What a lovely gift from you. I’m feeling not half bad today! 🙂

  8. Sheila in SF
    September 8, 2018 / 12:14 am

    Michelle, Prayers and wishing you better days ahead. Love your blog–always enjoyable and design enlightening.

    • michele
      Author
      September 8, 2018 / 12:26 am

      Thank you so much, lovely one. Trying to get better! xox

  9. October 22, 2019 / 6:45 am

    Love this Post! Such a beautiful house. White is always been my fav.
    Thanks for sharing

    • Michele
      Author
      October 22, 2019 / 8:24 am

      So happy to spotlight her amazing work – thanks for taking the time to visit! 🙂

  10. Appellointeriors
    May 28, 2020 / 11:57 pm

    this is really beautiful house. Amazing pictures as well. Thanks for sharing

    • Michele
      Author
      May 29, 2020 / 3:37 pm

      Thanks so much for reading – Suzanne Kasler’s work is some of the most timeless and beautiful to my hungry design freaky eyes! Happy weekend.

  11. January 14, 2022 / 11:59 am

    On the cover, I never understood the pinstripe panel screen partially covered up by the mirror. Any ideas?
    I did enjoy this book as her work is very similar to mine. I call mine “soft grandeur”.

    • Michele
      Author
      January 14, 2022 / 9:34 pm

      Right? Do you suppose there was a reason there was a particular reason they needed to show the abstract painting and this vignette, and the mirror allowed the reflection of it? No idea. Soft grandeur sounds amazing.

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Let’s SHOP!

White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing