How Sister Parish Redefined American Interior Design Forever
Sister Parish, born Dorothy May Kinnicutt, became one of America’s most influential interior decorators. Known for her distinctive mix-and-match style, she reshaped the design world during a time when few women led the industry. Her legacy continues today through her granddaughter’s revived brand, Sister Parish Designs. Parish launched her career in 1933 after her family’s wealth diminished following the 1929 stock market crash. Nicknamed 'Sister' by her brothers, she valued tradition and the warmth of home—principles she credited to her upbringing. These ideals became the foundation of her design philosophy.
In 1962, she partnered with Albert Hadley to form Parish Hadley, a firm that attracted high-profile clients. Among them were Brooke Astor, Enid Annenberg Haupt, and media mogul William Paley. Their collaboration marked a new era in interior design, blending classic comfort with bold creativity. Beyond her work, Parish mentored emerging talents like Bunny Williams and David Kleinberg. Her influence extended far beyond her lifetime. In 2000, her granddaughter Susan Crater relaunched the brand as Sister Parish Designs, keeping Parish’s signature aesthetic alive. Today, the company offers timeless patterns such as Dolly and Sunswick, appealing to both professional designers and home enthusiasts. While primarily serving trade clients, the brand also shares practical design advice through social media.
Sister Parish’s impact on interior design remains strong decades later. Her approach—rooted in tradition yet adaptable to modern living—continues to inspire. Through her granddaughter’s efforts, her vision endures in homes and projects around the world.
