Date of Birth: July 15, 1910
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Date of Death: September 8, 1994
Biography
Sister Parish, born Dorothy May Kinnicutt on July 15, 1910, in Morristown, New Jersey, was a pioneering American interior designer credited with revolutionizing the American interior design landscape. She was known for her eclectic and comfortable style, which blended traditional American and European elements. Parish grew up in a privileged environment and was educated at elite schools, which greatly influenced her appreciation for classic design and aesthetics. In 1933, Sister Parish established her own interior design firm, Parish-Hadley Associates, with Albert Hadley. Their partnership lasted for over three decades and became one of the most influential interior design firms of the 20th century. Parish’s design philosophy emphasized comfort, practicality, and a lived-in look, which was a departure from the more formal and rigid styles of her time. She was also known for her use of chintz fabrics, painted furniture, and an abundance of family heirlooms in her designs. Sister Parish’s work gained significant attention when Jacqueline Kennedy hired her to redecorate the White House in 1961. This high-profile project solidified her reputation as a leading designer and brought her aesthetic sensibilities to a broader audience. Throughout her career, Parish worked on numerous high-profile projects and left a lasting legacy in the world of interior design.
5 Interesting Facts about Sister Parish
1. **Nickname Origin**: The name “Sister” was a childhood nickname that stuck with her throughout her life.
2. **White House Redesign**: She was the first person hired by Jacqueline Kennedy to redecorate the White House.
3. **Design Philosophy**: Parish emphasized the importance of comfort and practicality in interior design, often creating rooms that looked lived-in.
4. **Parish-Hadley Associates**: Her partnership with Albert Hadley lasted over 30 years and became one of the most influential design firms in America.
5. **Influence on American Homes**: Her style influenced the American domestic interior design, making spaces more personal and comfortable.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Sister Parish
1. “Even the humblest dwelling has beauty in it.”
2. “You don’t make a house a home until you put your own mark on it.”
3. “I always put in one controversial item. It makes people talk.”
4. “The family home must have the warmth of a nest.”
5. “Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the height of her career, Sister Parish’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
Sister Parish had three children: Apple Bartlett, May Gardiner, and Henry Parish II.
Relevant Links
2. [Parish-Hadley: The Legendary Firm](https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/parish-hadley
3. [Sister Parish Design](https://www.sisterparishdesign.com/