Q: What was your path into the design world?
A: I was non-professionally “designing” for family and friends in my early twenties when I met my late partner, Tom Fox. He encouraged me to go to Parsons and Parsons Paris. We had a project published on the cover of the New York Times just as I was graduating, and the rest is history.
Q: Throughout your projects, playfulness remains a constant. How do you balance design trends with the lasting longevity of design?
A: While we do like to infuse a bit of humour or playfulness into all our projects, we try not to follow current trends. We are always so pleased when visiting a project that is 10, or 20 years old and seeing how our design has stood the test of time.
Q: As a firm, you excel at sourcing and collecting eclectic pieces for your clients. How have you trained your eye?
A: The original training came from seeking unusual, vintage, and antique pieces from around the globe to compliment our clean interiors. It then transitioned to also collaborating with artisans, craftspeople, and artists from around the world (many of whom we met via Instagram) to make bespoke pieces for our clients.
Q: Tell us a bit about your gravitation to the custom design elements in this home.
A: In the living room, the existing fireplace was complimented by the amazing large-scale ceramic piece created by Peter Lane, a New York based ceramic artist. The Rug Company worked hand in hand with us to realise the rug, with its high-low texture and unique pattern. This rug was the basis for all the other pieces in the room.
Q: What initially drew you to Shongololo? How did you go about selecting the colour palette?
A: It was quite by accident that I saw this distinctive rug while working on our orders in The Rug Company showroom. We really wanted the rug in this long, but slightly narrow space. The revised, custom colour palette made for a perfect base for the rest of the furniture and fabric choices. I adore this rug and hope to order one for my own home.
Q: The Rug Company is rooted in traditional Nepalese weaving techniques. What does craftsmanship mean to you?
A: Craftsmanship, quality, and bespoke designs are the hallmark of our brand.
Q: What is the biggest thing you wish you knew when you started your firm?
A: To be firm with clients but make them feel comfortable with the decisions they are unsure of.
Q: What are you currently excited about in design? What makes you say yes to a project?
A: The thrill and challenge of working with different artisans from around the world. This collaboration brings a whole new layer to our work and due to outlets like Instagram, we are constantly meeting new sources.
Joe Nahem - ©Josh Gaddy
