Paul Revere Williams, Architect to the Stars

February 27, 2013
Hosted by Ann Ascher and Eleanor Schrader Schapa

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Guest Information

Episode Description

Often described as “Architect to the Stars,” Paul Williams left an indelible mark on architecture during a prolific career that spanned almost 60 years. The first African-American member and Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, he became known for designs which were stylized and elegant. He had an extraordinary capability with Southern California historical styles, yet he was equally comfortable with modern design. His vast body of work stretches from Beverly Hills and New York to Paris and Colombia, including such luminary clients as Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, Tyrone Power, Danny Thomas, Lon Chaney, and Frank Sinatra.

Dishing the Dirt on Design

Archives Available on VoiceAmerica Variety Channel

With a flair for the mischievous and with an eye for intrigue, Ann and Eleanor will reveal the stories behind the design and interview some of the most renowned names in the world of design.

Design should be enlightening, educational, inspirational, and fun. Dishing the Dirt on Design will tantalize listeners with stories and information about all the glamour and glitz behind the mysteries of art history, fabulous fashion, homes of the rich and famous, glittering travel destinations, and everything else in the realm of style and design.

Ann Ascher and Eleanor Schrader Schapa

Ann Ascher is a renowned interior designer with an international interior design clientele covering both residential and commercial projects. The Robb Report named her as one of the "World's Top 40 Interior Designers," adding that “she is one of the individuals who has taken design to a new level.” Her projects include apartments at the legendary Carlyle Hotel in New York City, including the renovation and design of the former apartment of President John F. Kennedy. Her projects include elegant homes, prestigious clubs, and corporate offices in the United States and abroad.

Eleanor Schrader Schapa is an architectural and interior design historian and consultant who lectures worldwide and conducts travel tours on architecture, art, furniture, decorative arts, and interiors. She has been named a Distinguished Instructor at UCLA Extension, where she teaches history of architecture and interior design. She is also a Professor of Art and Architectural History at Santa Monica College. She has done graduate work in fine and decorative arts at Sotheby’s Institute in London and New York. She has served as a Design Review Commissioner for the City of Beverly Hills.

Episode Directory

April 2013

March 2013

February 2013

  • 2/27/2013: Paul Revere Williams, Architect to the Stars Listen Now
  • 2/20/2013: The Business of Interior Design Listen Now
  • 2/13/2013: Love is in the Air Listen Now
  • 2/6/2013: Elvis Has Not Left the Building: Saving an Historic Home from Demolition Listen Now


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