Aldous Bertram: A Moment With the Design Maestro
Enter Aldous Bertram: a connoisseur of elegance, a maestro of style, and a master of all things aesthetic. Armed with a Ph.D. in Chinese Influence on English Garden Design and Architecture from Cambridge University, this dashing creative has ascended to scholarly heights with an impeccable eye and talent to boot. But Aldous's talents extend far beyond the realms of academia.
Hailing from Britain, Bertram now calls Charleston, South Carolina, home. Nestled amidst the cobblestone streets and antebellum charm, he breathes life into spaces with an extraordinary blend of creativity and finesse. With eight years under the tutelage of the esteemed Amanda Lindroth, Bertram has honed his craft and has recently announced the beginning of his eponymous interior design firm, Aldous Bertram Design.
In 2021, Bertram made his literary debut with Dragons & Pagodas: A Celebration of Chinoiserie. This captivating tome weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of Chinoiserie history, art, and culture, inviting readers to embark on a journey through incredible imagery and watercolors painted by Bertram himself. Since its release, the thoughtfully composed book has become a favorite of designers, artists, and enthusiasts alike. His second book, slated for 2024, will be a spectacular illustrated history of Palm Beach brimming with more of Bertram's extraordinary artwork.
Prior, Bertram cut his teeth at the storied wallcoverings company of de Gournay and the famed auction house of Sotheby's. And let us not forget his tenure at the illustrious House & Garden Magazine UK, where his discerning eye delighted readers and ignited their imaginations.
I had the joyous occasion of interviewing the esteemed designer. Enjoy!
How did you come to find yourself in the interior design industry, and what inspired you to pursue this career path?
I used to think that I got into design by accident because my first job was offered to me unexpectedly based upon some watercolor paintings of rooms, while I was pursuing art rather than design. But in fact, my interest in interiors had been deep-seated and expressed through the creation of miniature houses from wood, decorated with tiny antiques collected on my travels. I also now see that trips I take are not centered on beaches and hotels, but instead on historic architecture, gardens, and great interior spaces.
What do you find are the greatest differences between the English approach to design and the American?
I believe the greatest difference between American and British design lies in color, and specifically the variety of colors within a single space, and the significance of matching them. I feel like British design is all about mixing and layering contrasting things, with many different patterns and colors that form a playful whole that appears collected and developed over time.
Photographed by Peter Murdock
If you could travel back in time to any era, which one would you choose?
I have always wanted to live in the Georgian Era, most specifically the closing years of the 18th century, when the idea of a universal ‘Taste’ reigned supreme, and classical rules in architecture and design combined with the wild and charming expressions of chinoiserie and rococo to enliven rooms and pavilions. I collect antique engravings that depict Georgian country houses and gardens and which fill me with joy and inspiration.
Photographed by Peter Murdock
Photographed by Peter Murdock
Photographed by Peter Murdock
What do you believe is the most important aspect of good design?
I believe the most important aspect of good design is composition. Putting together a balanced composition of shapes, colors, patterns, and textures is a talent similar to composing music or laying out a great painting. The composer, or designer, can’t simply buy beautiful things and expect a good result if they are the wrong size or don’t speak to each other stylistically. All the ingredients must be laid out with balance, care, and a well-trained eye.
Photographed by Peter Murdock
What’s next for Aldous Bertram Design?
In my first year with my own company, I am thrilled to work with clients that I care about to create rooms of which I can be proud. I will also continue to develop my artistic side with exciting product design collaborations, and my art store with Chairish where I regularly release new original watercolor paintings and prints. Touring America with my book, Dragons & Pagodas also allows me to introduce my style and interests to new audiences and take part in great design events.
Thank you, Aldous!
Discover more of Bertram's work here.
Follow Aldous Bertram on Instagram.
Follow Natalie on Instagram.
x Natalie
