Designers Discuss Origins of Taste in New York
A panel of industry experts explored whether personal style is an inherited trait or a learned habit in Chinatown.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Interior Decorating
Live Poll
Do you believe your personal taste in style and home design is innate or learned?
Design-world insiders gathered for a panel discussion in Chinatown to debate the origins of aesthetic taste. The event served as an official preview for the upcoming publication of CULTURED at Home Volume II.
Why it matters
The conversation highlighted the foundational influences on interior design, ranging from cultural upbringing to cinematic inspiration. These discussions help shape the creative direction for the upcoming Volume II release.
Alexandra Cunningham-Cameron previously curated the 2017 Free Play exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara. The upcoming CULTURED at Home Volume II publication is scheduled for release later this week.
The players
Andre Mellone
A designer who grew up in São Paulo and draws significant inspiration from his background and cinema.
Alexandra Cunningham-Cameron
She serves as a Guest Editor for CULTURED at Home and previously curated the 2017 exhibition Free Play.
Will Cooper
A design professional who joined the panel to discuss the origins of taste and aesthetic development.
The details
The panel, titled By Design, From the Beginning, featured insights from designer Andre Mellone and guest editor Alexandra Cunningham-Cameron. Mellone cited his childhood in São Paulo and the film 9 1/2 Weeks as formative inspirations for his design philosophy.
Timeline
The design panel discussion occurred in New York on October 26, 2026.
Cunningham-Cameron curated the exhibition Free Play in 2017.
CULTURED at Home Volume II will be released in October 2026.
Culture Shift
This panel discussion builds upon the academic framework established by the 2017 Free Play exhibition. It reflects a broader movement in the design world to formalize the study of personal taste as a central element of professional practice.
Readers interested in design can look forward to the release of CULTURED at Home Volume II later this week. The discussion encourages residents to reflect on how their own unique environments and cultural experiences shape their daily living spaces.
The takeaway
Understanding the origins of taste can help individuals identify and curate a more authentic personal style. Reflecting on one's own childhood influences and favorite media can provide a clearer roadmap for future home decor decisions.
Further reading
Explore more trends and professional insights in the Interior Decorating section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cultured Mag.
Live Poll
Do you believe your personal taste in style and home design is innate or learned?
