David Ries is the Principal of Ries Hayes, a New York City-based interior design studio specializing in bespoke residential and commercial interiors. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of Minnesota and founded Ries Hayes in 2021, following a successful 20-year career leading esteemed firms in Chicago and New York.

Ries’s extensive background in architecture and interior design allows him to guide Ries Hayes through a historically informed lens, emphasizing the significance of craftsmanship and artistry in interior spaces. The depth of his portfolio is evident in the artful blend of elements both old and new, which reflects how we live today. It has been said of his work, “Ries designs spaces that respect the past, but at the same time he brings something altogether new, timeless and effortlessly personal”.

David’s work has been featured in esteemed design publications such as Galerie, Architectural Digest, Interior Design, and Veranda. He has been recognized on the prestigious 1stdibs 50 list, which celebrates interior designers and architects at the height of their craft.

Emily Meroney is the Studio Director of Ries Hayes, where she has worked alongside David Ries since the studio’s founding. She holds a Bachelor of Interior Design from Louisiana State University, with a focus on architectural history and textile design, and previously worked on the interior design teams at AD100 architecture and design studios in New York.

Raised in Louisiana, Emily’s sensibility was shaped by historic homes defined by patina and continuity — spaces that evolved over time and reflected the lives lived within them. This early influence instilled in her a lasting respect for craftsmanship and material integrity. Through travel, she continues to refine her perspective, bringing a considered, collected approach to each project.