Wish List: Barbara Lazarus

After earning degrees from Bennington College (in Greek and Latin with a minor in writing) and the Rhode Island School of Design (in illustration and interior design), Barbara Lazarus began a career as a children’s book illustrator. Word got around, though, that she had a good eye for interior design, and it wasn’t long before a Providence-based architecture and design firm recruited her to join their staff. A handful of years later, Lazarus started her own Providence firm. Education and experience come into play in her work, of course, but Lazarus also relies heavily on her instincts.

“When I walk into a house, I get a feeling of color right away,” she says. “It’s always distinctly white or beige or yellow or green or red.” Her clients, who may have had other ideas, generally decide she’s right. Her career path may have taken an unexpected turn, but Lazarus has never looked back. “Someone once said, ‘If you find something you like, you’ll never need a job,’ ” she says. “That’s exactly how I feel. I could never retire.” Providence, (401) 521-8910

Marais Fabric by Clarence House  “This new fabric could be used in so many ways. I would love to have it paper-backed for use as a wall covering, but it would also make great pillows or window treatments.” FROM WEBSTER & CO., BOSTON DESIGN CENTER, (617) 261-9660, WWW.WEBSTERCOMPANY.COM

Clara Bow Dining Table “The finish and wood graining on this Dakota Jackson table is spectacular, and the attention to detail is unsurpassed. You have to see this piece to appreciate the depth and quality of the finish.” FROM WEBSTER & CO.

Vellin Bench by Holly Hunt “This is such a versatile bench; I would use two of them for seating in a dining room, or would use one in an entry upholstered in a wild fabric.” FROM WEBSTER & CO.

Nineteenth-century Sconces “I’ve had my eye on these sconces for a while. I would have them wired, and can see them in a dining room, powder room or entry.” FROM ANTIQUES ON 5, BOSTON DESIGN CENTER, (617) 951-0008, WWW.ANTIQUESON5.COM

Eve Apple Sculpture “Janus et Cie’s accessory line is wonderful and I think sometimes overlooked. These gold-leaf apples, especially the larger sizes, can easily stand on their own and add instant style to a table top.” FROM JANUS ET CIE, BOSTON DESIGN CENTER, (617) 737-5001, WWW.JANUSETCIE.COM

Neo Terrazzo Floor Tile “These new concrete terrazzo floor tiles by Andy Fleishman are just amazing—I can’t wait to use them. This one is called Celestial.” FROM ANN SACKS, BOSTON DESIGN CENTER, (617) 737-2300, WWW.ANNSACKS.COM