William “Billy” Haines, a charismatic and talented actor, achieved fame in the 1920s Hollywood scene.
However, his refusal to enter into a “lavender marriage” led him to leave behind his successful career.
Haines possessed not only good looks but also a sharp wit that captivated audiences.
He appeared in around 50 films and was sought after by influential individuals as a dinner companion.
Yet, his most significant contribution lies in his impeccable sense of style, which continues to inspire even today.
Born in a small town in Virginia, Haines left home at the age of 14 with a young man he referred to as his boyfriend.
They ventured to the lawless city of Hopewell, where Haines gained worldly knowledge.
Eventually, he made his way to New York City and Greenwich Village, relying on his striking appearance to secure modeling and acting gigs.
In 1922, he won a contest held by Goldwyn Studios, propelling him into the golden era of Hollywood.
Haines' on-screen characters mirrored his own quick-witted personality.
Throughout his career, he starred alongside Hollywood's biggest names, including lifelong friend Joan Crawford, Marion Davies, and Mary Pickford.
During a trip back to New York in 1926, Haines met Jimmie Shields and convinced him to return to Los Angeles with him.
The two lived together openly as Hollywood's first gay couple for the next 47 years.
In 1930, Haines became the highest-grossing box-office attraction in the country.
However, in 1933, after being arrested with a sailor at a YMCA, Haines faced an ultimatum from Louis B. Mayer, head of Goldwyn Studios.
Mayer gave him the choice between ending his relationship with Shields or participating in a “lavender marriage” to hide his homosexuality.
Haines refused to conceal his true identity and was subsequently fired from the studio, effectively ending his acting career.
Undeterred, Haines and Shields ventured into the world of interior design and antique dealing.
Their clients included Hollywood stars such as Joan Crawford, Gloria Swanson, and Lucille Ball.
Haines also collaborated with renowned architects to create lavish homes in Beverly Hills, Holmby Hills, and New York.
Palm Springs became a frequent destination for the stylish crowd, including Haines himself.
He purchased properties in the area and decorated them with his unique flair, effortlessly blending sophistication with a relaxed vibe.
In 1939, Haines designed a desert living room for the San Francisco World's Fair, showcasing his talent as a businessman by renting out his Palm Springs home to others.
Jack Warner, the mogul behind Warner Bros., was among the notable guests who enjoyed Haines' hospitality.
When Warner decided to have his own desert retreat, he turned to Haines for design expertise.
The resulting Villa Aujourd'hui, located in Old Las Palmas, was a two-year project that resulted in five buildings and two pools, filled with an eclectic mix of Greek statuary and Asian antiques.
Haines' furniture designs were remarkable, characterized by their graceful proportions, deep seats, and low-slung elegance.
His talents extended beyond Warner's residence, as he designed homes for other prominent figures like Mr. and Mrs. Tom May, owners of numerous department stores across the country.
Among his esteemed clients were Nancy and Ronald Reagan, who sought Haines' expertise when working on their Rancho Mirage home, Sunnylands.
Together with architect A. Quincy Jones, Haines crafted the interiors and furnished the estate with his signature pieces.
The Annenbergs, pleased with Haines' work, even enlisted him to redecorate Winfield House in London, where they resided during Walter Annenberg's tenure as the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom.
Sunnylands became a cherished retreat for presidents, foreign dignitaries, and royalty.
The Reagans frequented the estate, particularly during the annual New Year's Eve celebration, where they and other influential individuals sat on Haines' meticulously designed furniture.
William Haines may have left behind his acting career, but his lasting impact as an interior design icon remains.
His keen eye for style and his ability to create spaces that blend elegance with comfort have left an indelible mark on Hollywood and beyond.
