Donghia has a new director in charge of lighting and furniture design: Stephen Levine, who was previously director of visual merchandising at the company, will take on the role. In addition to his in-house experience, Levine brings insights gained during his time as creative director at Rose Tarlow Melrose House and new product and visual display director at Gregorius/Pineo, as well as from positions in interior design, product development, construction management and project management, including founding DesignLab Miami.

Levine shared with EAL his thoughts on his new job.

What’s most exciting about this new role?
I will be leading a team of some of the most talented and creative designers I have ever worked with, each of us coming together with vastly different histories and perspectives that, when brought together, will allow us to create inspired designs.

How has your work at Donghia evolved over time?
When I was asked to join Donghia as the director of visual merchandising a year ago, I jumped at the opportunity. I have been coveting Donghia since my design career began, watching what has become classic and collectible. It allowed me to develop a presentation that helped bridge the classic Donghia with contemporary Donghia, and the combination is stirring up excitement for a new generation of clientele who are now being introduced to the heritage of Donghia.

I love honoring the history of Donghia and finding the thread that links the eras together. It feels like a natural evolution, not only for me as a design director, but also for Donghia as a sought-after brand.

Can you share some sneak peeks into what you’re currently developing in lighting, furniture and accessories?
If I told you, I would have to kill you…! All I can say is that we are working on combining elements that pay homage to the legacy of Donghia and that will one day become classic and collectible.