Fawn Galli Talks Design Inspiration, a Favorite Project and More!

A well-traveled explorer, Fawn Galli finds inspiration in a myriad of diverse worlds including fashion, textiles, 70s disco and nature, all of which inform her work. She owns Fawn Galli Interiors, a full-service residential and commercial firm with extensive experience in all aspects of interior design and construction management. Renowned for her masterful use of color and texture, Fawn brings a fresh eye and modern approach to every project. With a nod to the past and a focus firmly tuned to today, she creates inspired interiors that meld the traditional and the contemporary.

Fawn’s layered interiors, which often employ unexpected materials and elements from a range of time periods, are distinctive, memorable, and, most importantly, reflective of each client’s taste and lifestyle. Recent projects include a Newport estate, homes in Connecticut and the Hamptons, a West Village townhouse, Soho offices for a film company and a classic Brooklyn brownstone.

Tell us a bit about your day-to-day – and what you love most abou what you do.

Every day is different, and I think that’s what I love the most. Somedays I’m on-site meeting with client and contractors and some days I’m out shopping or scheming for new dreamy projects.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find a lot of inspiration in nature. It’s so restorative, and I try to bring that same element to my interiors. The whimsy and colors of nature also influence my work. I embrace the unexpected and love to mix colors.

Do you have a specific person that’s inspired you or mentored you, that one specific person that’s influenced you?

I worked closely under Robert Stern for many years. His guidance and mentorship mean a lot to me. He pushed me to become the bold designer I am today.

What has been your most challenging project? How did you tackle it?

The most challenging projects are when the contractor, client, and designers are not on the same page. I approach these situations with grace and strength. It is important to be empathetic and consistent.

What’s your process with a client? How does it differ from residential to commercial projects?

We start by getting to know the space and how they live. We work to understand what they want out of their home and space. Do they like to entertain? Do they have kids or pets? Where is their favorite place to travel? Once we get an idea of who they are, we dream up schemes for them. There might be some that are “safe” but we often like to push clients out of their comfort zone- that’s why they hired us. We then edit these schemes through a series of meetings to create a space that is uniquely theirs.

What’s been your favorite project you’ve worked on and why?

We completed a Milanese inspired apartment a few years ago, and the soul and life that apartment gives off will always be a favorite. It was for a long-time client and the partnership we had formed over the years working together really flourished, and we were able to create something truly special and timeless.

What apps or software can you not live without?

Instagram! This is such a great resource for designers to connect, share, and find inspiration from one another.

What piece of advice would you offer to new homeowners who are starring at a blank canvas and trying to figure out how to create an inspiring environment for themselves?

Choose fixtures and finishes that are timeless. Use them as the building blocks to create a unique environment for you. If your finishes are trendy, you will grow tired of them, but if you start with classic elements and then layer in your style over top, you begin to create a space that is going to outlast any trend.

What three pieces of advice would you offer to someone looking to start his or her own business/brand?

Take the risk! Don’t be afraid to jump in.
Find and build a good support team- contractors, tradesmen, bookkeepers, artisans, and vendors. Their knowledge and skills are worth the investment.
Keep learning! Don’t be afraid to try new things and push the envelope with design elements. That’s how you learn and can create a bigger and better project next time.

On September 24 at 3 PM, Fawn Galli will be at DISCOVER ADAC for the Female, Fierce, and Fabulous in Design session presented by Architectural Digest (reception to follow at Baker). DISCOVER ADAC runs September 25-27 in Atlanta. You can register here as well as see all the sessions they’ll be hosting for the event!

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