Matt McKay, Parsons Interior Design ’12, Creates Unique Spaces and Designs Bold Furniture
Maria Pergay, Alan Watts, and William Eggleston are all artists and thinkers who have inspired generations of designers, including Matt McKay, Parsons AAS Interior Design ’12. In addition to those legendary creatives, McKay is also inspired by nature, landscapes, and travel.
“Something as simple as taking time for a hike, or a walk along the beach, can bring a wealth of inspiration,” shares McKay. “I travel to soak up a different culture, art, design, and food. It’s all a feast for the senses, and brings with it a sense of adventure and ideas.”
An accomplished interior designer who has been featured in Architectural Digest, Surface, Remodelista, and more, McKay also recently launched a collection of furniture that includes chairs, tables, and other eclectic pieces of seating. His firm is focused on residential projects, and is currently working on homes in New York, the Hamptons, Connecticut, Miami, and Austin.
A selection of interiors designed by McKay
Speaking about his decision to start his own practice, McKay notes that “I had long thought this would be my trajectory but became comfortable in my work at other firms. I knew it was time to challenge myself to dream bigger and grow.”
During his time at Parsons, McKay was focused on the technical knowledge that was necessary for him to excel in a practical work setting, which gave him a solid foundation to begin his career. He was also exposed to celebrated interior designers and other innovative creatives, who inspired him and impacted his educational journey.
His advice to aspiring designers is to “Collect, find something to obsess over, study it constantly, and acquire based on this passion.”
Next up, McKay is at work on a few projects in the Hamptons, as well as a house in Austin, Texas, and a variety of endeavors in New York City.
A selection of pieces designed by McKay
