I love every period in design history. Even the ugly ones.

The quote by Catherine Martin reflects her deep appreciation for the full scope of design history. By saying she loves “every period,” she acknowledges that each era—whether celebrated for its elegance or criticized for its flaws—contributes something valuable to the evolution of design. Even styles considered ugly carry significance, as they reveal cultural values, experimentation, and shifting tastes of their time.

Martin’s words suggest that design should not be judged solely by aesthetics, but also by its historical context and creative intent. What may appear unattractive today might have been groundbreaking or influential in its own era. By embracing both the beautiful and the awkward phases of design history, she demonstrates an inclusive, holistic view that honors the continuity of creativity across time.

This perspective also highlights the cyclical nature of style and trends. Many once-dismissed periods in design resurface later as sources of inspiration, proving that every movement has enduring relevance. Martin’s acceptance of all design periods—“even the ugly ones”—shows her belief that creativity is not about perfection but about exploration, risk, and cultural expression.

The origin of this quote lies in Martin’s career as an acclaimed production designer and costume designer, best known for her collaborations with filmmaker Baz Luhrmann on films like Moulin Rouge! and The Great Gatsby. Her work often draws from multiple design eras, blending influences to create visually rich and layered worlds. This quote captures her philosophy that the richness of design history lies in its diversity, where every period—no matter how flawed—adds to the creative tapestry.