Since he was a little child, Larry Laslo knew what he would like to do in life. Born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, he attended the Philadelphia College of Art. From his early years, he marvelled at outstanding places and views which immediately appeared in his mind in the form of paintings. However, at the time Bethlehem was still a steel town where being an artist was considered rather bizarre. Fortunately, Laslo’s passion turned out to be stronger than irrational provincial conventions.
“Decorating – and life – is about moderation. Splurge, then pull your jets in for a while”
Larry Laslo
Since he was a little child, Larry Laslo knew what he would like to do in life. Born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, he attended the Philadelphia College of Art. From his early years, he marvelled at outstanding places and views which immediately appeared in his mind in the form of paintings. However, at the time Bethlehem was still a steel town where being an artist was considered rather bizarre. Fortunately, Laslo’s passion turned out to be stronger than irrational provincial conventions.
During studies, Larry Laslo exhibited unusual skills in the fields of painting, sculpture and ceramics. With his head full of ideas and inspirations, Laslo quickly impressed the teachers, who decided to give him a cash prize. Due to this award, he could have studied in Europe but eventually chose to moved to New York City.
His career gained momentum at once. Initially, he worked as the art director at Doyle, Dane and Bernbach Advertising Agency. He was responsible for designing illustrations for some significant magazines, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, GQ, Playboy and New York Times. The years of getting experience pushed him to open his own business. Designing of the Bergdorf-Goodman store in 1980s was his first project, which made him famous. After doing the projects for Mikasa, he became interested in furniture design and this led to opening his own line.
Larry Laslo is widely recognized for his designs of carpets, lamps, silver, gold and glass, but drawing and painting are still his favourite ways of expressing personal aesthetics. In 1999 and 2002, he was chosen by House Beautiful one of the best 100 designers. His work was published in numerous influential magazines, such as Architectural Digest. Laslo’s collections are sold in various stores around the world.