Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is well-versed in managing a demanding lifestyle. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef had already taken on the role of executive chef at Aquavit in New York City, shortly thereafter becoming the youngest chef to earn a three-star review from The New York Times.
In the years that followed, he established himself as one of New York’s leading restaurateurs by launching several noteworthy establishments, including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Samuelsson has authored cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network for many years.
Now, as a husband and father, Samuelsson is venturing into a new field. He has partnered with West Elm to create a 32-piece home goods collection that draws from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experience living in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed how people’s dining habits have evolved since the COVID-19 lockdowns, his inspirations in both cooking and design, and what lies ahead in his career.
When reflecting on changes in dining habits over the past three years, he noted that the pandemic improved the home dining experience and inspired many to become skilled home cooks. As a result, when dining out, people now seek elevated service and memorable experiences. They want to feel connected to their surroundings and the community while enjoying a meal.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of creating a unique atmosphere in his restaurants, such as the lively ambiance at Red Rooster, where live music plays a key role. He is committed to honoring the community of Harlem by integrating local culture and supporting its musicians. For his Chelsea location, Hav & Mar, he incorporated an art program in line with the local art scene.
The inspiration for collaborating with West Elm to design a home goods collection stemmed from his creative background that includes painting and writing. His experience in restaurant design allowed him to bring a rich aesthetic influenced by his heritage.
One of the highlights of the West Elm collaboration for Samuelsson is the use of materials that reflect personal elements from his life, such as woods reminiscent of his father’s fishing village in Sweden, complemented by African prints to create a cohesive collection.
While Samuelsson engages in various creative pursuits, he ultimately finds his way back to cooking, whether it involves shopping for ingredients, cooking for his family, or contemplating new culinary ideas. He feels confident in his culinary skills, viewing his other artistic endeavors as ongoing learning experiences.