Layered Lighting

Mixing a geometric chandelier, plaster sconces, and 1940s French lamps, the tiered illumination in this living room artfully delivers utility and style in triplicate.

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As a third-generation New York City designer, have you seen it all?

JEFF LINCOLN: I’ve definitely witnessed the coming and going of so many trends and period styles, from English country to mid century modern. We’re past all that now. We’re post-trend. That’s the biggest difference between my predecessors and myself. American decoration today allows the freedom to incorporate history in an unfussy, contemporary way. The owners of this West Palm Beach, Florida, home craved that liberty; they wanted a carefree house with effortless style.

DAVID A. KEEPS: Doesn’t everyone?

The ultimate luxury is being able to relax and enjoy your home—not to have to swan around, plumping pillows and rearranging flowers. Who, in this day and age, needs custom lampshades? I don’t want people to feel encumbered by their things.

Is that why you use ceramic garden stools for side tables?

That’s part of the easy-living, indoor/ outdoor sensibility of West Palm Beach. The stools are inexpensive and durable, and if you set a sweating drink on them or leave a puddle of gin, that’s easily resolved with a paper towel.

What’s the history of this property?