The design maven and social media tastemaker shares the 10 things that she can’t live without

By Sarah Emily Gilbert

Designer of interiors and textiles Uma Stewart understands that a room goes far beyond painted walls, high-end furniture, and matching accessories. That’s why her design process is centered in her client’s family, friends, interests, and culture. In short, it’s a reflection of their lifestyle. Aptly named Uma Stewart Interiors and Lifestyle, Stewart’s design firm incorporates this philosophy into each of its projects. For Stewart, fusing lifestyle and design is almost second nature as her brand is a clear extension of her own family, friends, interests, and culture. One look at Stewart’s Instagram, blog, or website shows that she lives her brand. Stewart’s photo with her son, her Balenciaga cuff mixed with bangles from India, and her posts about music clearly influence her designs. Her aesthetic combines high fashion, culture, and livability, so that when she completes a space, it beckons friends and family to gather in it. Between the recent release of the Uma Stewart fabric line, a new collection of patterns in the works, and a line of cotton, velvet, and hemp solids on the horizon, there seems to be no end in sight for the multitalented designer. Below, Stewart’s list of 10 favorite things provides further insight on she blends lifestyle and design.

Dinner at Arturo’s in Maplewood

This place is special because the food makes it feel luxurious, but you can easily take the kids there too. We always order a Farm Pie (pizza) and salad off the specials menu because it always features locally grown, organic produce. Super YUM!

Opera incense by Astier de Villatte

It smells similar to the Indian incense of my childhood, but feels lux and comes in gorgeous packaging.

Large-scale Art

I love dramatic pieces that fill a wall with a powerful statement. A large abstract painting or photograph that has been enlarged is an amazing way to bring a modern feeling to a traditional setting.

Gold Bangles, Gifted to Me by Mom

I have a few different sets and I mix them with other wrist wear I have. They represent my Indian heritage and symbolize prosperity, which is always a good vibe to tap into during the day.

A Great Blowout

Every week I head to my hairstylist, Johana Bran Roman at Jose Eber in Millburn, NJ. It relaxes me and lets me feel like I’m taking care of myself. Connecting with Johana is always grounding!

Mindware Toy Catalog

Spending time hanging out with my son is always my favorite part of every day. I love finding interesting toys for him that help him develop new skills or build on the ones he has.

Homemade Chai

I’m generally obsessed with hot drinks, but every morning I have to have a cup of cardamom infused chai. Chai is the Indian word for tea, and has come to stand for the milky, spice-infused, and sweetened version generally preferred in India.

Our Blanket Stripe Fabric

One of our best selling patterns was based on a Peruvian blanket I saw draped over the shoulders of a model in a fashion magazine. To me, it captures travel, fashion, and an edgy bohemian vibe that I love.

The Rosewood Hotel in London

My family and I fondly recall a week spent there last winter. In the cold rainy London weather, we felt SO taken care of by the staff and the lux environment.

My Library Table

I collect photography and art books and vintage books, and a good chunk of them are always displayed on a large table in my living room. Guests browse through, and I’ll often grab one while drinking my tea to get inspired. I think more houses should feature a library table as part of their interiors!