Chad Dorsey x Collier Webb at WOW!house 2025

What role did lighting play in shaping the mood or atmosphere of your WOW!house room?

My concept was an intimate, energetic social club tucked within a traditional row house, reminiscent of international members’ clubs. I designed it to be energetic by day with live piano music, conversation, and cocktails  but with an elevated,  moody atmosphere that would hold for late night gatherings.

I envisioned a richly layered retreat, a social club, that reinterprets the refined intimacy of international private clubs through the lens of both British and American Arts and Crafts influences. It’s a classic arts and crafts Drawing Room that has now become a trendy social club.  All the details are handmade. 

I wanted sophisticated layers that would give visitors the best design experience walking through the space. Getting the lighting right was essential. Collier Webb delivered. Their lighting has the right amount of punch to challenge the eyes visually, but with that added refinement that makes the pieces special. The pieces I selected had a bit of whimsy to them. They make the magic of the space unfold naturally, creating an atmosphere of collected elegance rather than contrived perfection. The lighting made a room feel great to be in.

When selecting lighting for your room, what drew you to Collier Webb in particular?

Collier Webb is classic British yet design forward. The ability to select unique metal finishes and continue the bespoke elements of my room. 

I envisioned immersive cultures coming together to appreciate luxury and authentic craftsmanship–from 19th century society of the arts & crafts movement such as William Morris, Ruskin, Falkner to a modern aesthete. The heritage and quality to Collier Webb reflects that.

What was it about the pieces you chose that stood out to you?

The pieces are playful, original and bespoke. My approach to design is guided by wanting people to be surprised and moved by seemingly small details.  These details might go unnoticed at first but looking closer, you can see why they are so special.

Collier Webb’s artisanship and materiality was also a draw. I liked knowing the pieces are made by hand with techniques such as the ‘lost wax’ method and hand-sculpting, which really changes the overall feel of a space. 

How did craftsmanship and materials play a role in your overall design concept?

I love craftsmanship….I referenced the Arts and Crafts movement that began in the 1800’s in the UK and Expanded to the US and brought craftsmanship back to interiors while the world was industrializing and craft was dying.  This was appealing to me. 

I began with the idea of an American Designer in the UK and how he or she might connect to others when abroad. That progressed to members of a private social club from the 19th century Arts and Crafts movement to now.  Each with exceptional taste and the shared desire to be surrounded by beautiful, bespoke design. 

My training as an architect has always defined my process. Spatial integrity informs my work, each piece, especially lighting, affects the sculptural quality of a space without trying to overshadow it.

From your perspective, what makes a great partnership between a designer and a maker?

Having a maker that values the same level of exceptional craftsmanship and distinction with a storied heritage that brings meaning to the design. I look for a maker’s willingness to scrutinize over details that matter and employ cutting edge techniques so I know the quality is inherently there. This brings a level of ease to the design process. 

What do you look for when collaborating with craftspeople?

My work has long been associated with doing interesting things–the unexpected. I look for that same level of uniqueness from craftspeople and the meaningful objects they create. The end result is one-of-a-kind pieces that don't compromise on quality or sophistication but haven’t been seen or experienced before.