WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. (WVDN) – The Greenbrier, the historic luxury resort nestled in the picturesque Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia, once again hosted its celebrated Dorothy Draper Upholstery Weekend this past weekend, a highly anticipated event that combines hands-on learning with a deep dive into the world of classic interior design.
This year’s event welcomed design enthusiasts, industry professionals and those simply seeking a creative escape to indulge in the timeless upholstery techniques that made Dorothy Draper an interior design icon. Draper, who revolutionized mid-century American design with her bold color palettes, large-scale floral prints and elegant use of furniture, is best known for her work at The Greenbrier, where she was brought in to restore and redesign the resort’s interiors in the 1940s. The results were nothing short of stunning, making the resort a living testament to Draper’s legacy.
Over the course of the weekend, attendees participated in various workshops and educational sessions led by expert upholsterers and designers who taught them the craft of reupholstering furniture in the distinctive style of Dorothy Draper. The weekend’s events emphasized the use of vibrant color, oversized patterns and luxurious fabrics. These were hallmarks of Draper’s work that have since become synonymous with mid-century American glamour.
The workshops covered a wide range of topics, from the basics of upholstery techniques to more advanced methods, such as recreating Draper’s signature styles of bold floral upholstery and tailored cushions. Throughout the weekend, participants were able to restore and reupholster their own pieces of furniture, receiving expert guidance to ensure their creations adhered to the iconic Draper aesthetic.
A highlight of the weekend was a special presentation by Sebastian Varney, the president of Dorothy Draper & Company, who continues to uphold Draper’s legacy. Varney, a well-known design expert and author, shared personal stories of working alongside Draper and discussed the process of maintaining the integrity of her designs for modern restoration projects. His talk included a behind-the-scenes look at the efforts to preserve Draper’s original work, including the famous rooms at The Greenbrier, many of which remain unchanged since Draper’s original redesign in 1948.
“Dorothy Draper’s designs are more than just beautiful, they’re timeless,” said Varney. “Her philosophy was to make spaces come alive and her work continues to inspire us. It’s a privilege to help keep her legacy alive, not only through our ongoing work but by engaging with passionate people at events like this.”
As part of the weekend, attendees also had the opportunity to take guided tours of The Greenbrier, exploring the many rooms that have been carefully preserved to showcase Draper’s signature style. The lavish Draper Room, named in her honor, was a particular favorite with its vivid patterns, stately furniture and vibrant hues. The room is an embodiment of Draper’s design philosophy and remains a focal point of the resort’s interior.
The resort’s commitment to maintaining the authenticity of Draper’s work has made it a key destination for design enthusiasts and interior decorators, who continue to visit from around the world to admire her influence on the spaces she created. The Greenbrier’s dedication to this legacy ensures that Dorothy Draper’s vision remains a key part of the resort’s identity.
The Dorothy Draper Upholstery Weekend has also become a cherished event for those looking to immerse themselves in a hands-on learning experience. The workshops offered not only technical skills but also a deeper understanding of the design elements that have made Draper’s work so enduring. Guests were able to see firsthand how Draper’s eye for color, texture and scale could transform even the simplest furniture piece into a work of art.
For those interested in joining the next Dorothy Draper Upholstery Weekend, registration details and future dates will be announced soon. The event promises to continue its tradition of excellence, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore and experience the world of one of America’s most influential interior designers.
