The Story Behind Hamptons-Based Andrew Ludington's Design Intervention

Hamptons- and NYC-based designer Andrew Ludington breaks down his professional pivot onto the interiors scene.

Andrew Ludington

For interior designer Andrew Ludington of Studio Lud Home, interior design is simply fashion for the home. Ludington graduated from Marist College in 2011 with a degree in fashion communications and was prepared for a career in styling and visual merchandising. But after moving from New York City to the East End six years ago, he discovered a curiosity for furniture and interior design.

A sleek Rye dining room graced with Ludington’s touch.

Ludington’s visual merchandising expertise, including knowledge on how to properly present products, led him to a job at MONC XIII in Sag Harbor, the place he credits with sparking his interest in the industry. “I like to think of my time working there as a crash course in interior design and midcentury furniture,” Ludington says. Over the next few years, he would go on to work for other interior designers before founding Studio Lud Home in 2021.

An East Hampton kitchen, all designed by Ludington.

For Ludington, his clean, bright and sleek style can be described as casual luxury. “I always try to use rich and luxurious textiles in my designs,” he says. “I love texture and think layering and texture can make even the simplest design feel elevated and chic.” Although his style can frequently read quite modern, he says vintage furniture can often be found in his designs. “I like things to have character and to tell a story,” he says. “There’s something really dull about walking into a space filled with only new pieces.”

A moody New York City kitchen

Now based in the Hamptons, Ludington designs homes there, in New York City, Westchester and Connecticut. With projects in such a range of environments, there are some major differences between designing in the city and outside of it. “The city always poses issues with size and space,” Ludington says. “A few weeks ago I had to have a brand-new sofa cut into pieces just so I could fit it in the elevator. Stressful! It’s also a refreshing change to work in more rural areas outside the city and the Hamptons as you can play with different styles. Clients are usually more open to taking risks in secondary homes.”

A minimalist fireplace in an NYC space

Throughout his career, Ludington says one of the biggest things he’s learned is how important patience and confidence are. “You have to believe in yourself and have thick skin,” he says.

Today, Ludington has a few exciting projects in the works. “[I am] nearing completion on a beautiful modern farm house in Wainscott,” he says. “I also just signed with a developer to design the interiors for an enclave of seven new luxury homes located in Bridgehampton horse country.” With all that and more on deck, Ludington is excited for what the future holds.