Next up in our Designer Profile Series where our members share their own unique POV on all things design!

What is your idea of a perfectly designed space?

Not only a beautiful, inspiring, inviting and functional space but also one that induces qualities that you need for personal well-being and development.

What is your greatest extravagance when designing a project?

There are a couple of favorite "extravagances" that excite me when we get to do them. The first is simply any time we get to do anything custom because it generally costs more but is also the exact thing that the space needs. So it allows us to deliver the perfect thing for the space and client. The second most extravagant thing is using real stone for countertops and back splashes. There are some incredible marbles out there that are just jaw dropping and any time we get to use them as another tool in our palette feels really special. The third is installing a Lutron circadian rhythm lighting system in a home or office which mimics the color of the sun throughout the day. So if you turn on your lamp it will match the same color as your overhead lights. Studies now show the benefits of natural sun light and how it affects our circadian rhythms which are responsible for regulating hormones which in turn affect mood. So the next best thing to getting as much natural light into the space as possible is a circadian lighting system.

What do you consider the most overrated design trend or rule?

I am not a fan of overly ornate window draperies and upholstered valances. It feels like a thing of the past to me. They also collect a lot of dust so if I am focusing on a healthy home for my client they are a definite no.

The last few years have been quite interesting in how our business has changed. What do you consider your greatest achievement in managing all this?

Pre COVID we were just doing commercial projects- leasing offices, pop-up stores, retail stores, wellness spaces and offices. But during COVID with the uptick in residential projects and fall of commercial projects we officially ventured into residential design (we had formerly just been doing it for our commercial clients) and got to work on one of my most favorite projects to date that was picked up by a bunch of publications including AD Spain. I have never been one to shy away from a challenge or pivot. Being a small business owner requires it. But this was a scary jump and I am so happy we did it! With our holistic interior design approach it just makes sense to work one on one with people and families in a residential setting.

If you were to die and come back as an object or space, what would it be?

An outdoor meditation area surrounded by plants and nature.

What is your most treasured space or possession in your home?

I really love our living room. When my wife and I first purchased our home we had super stressful jobs so I was intentional about designing a living room that was calming and helped us de-stress in the evenings. It's mostly all white with lots of different textures, high ceilings and all windows so we get tons of natural light during the day. When you sit on our sofa, you feel as if you're on top of the world. I love to sit in the chaise part of the sectional with my iced coffee and the latest issue of New York Magazine on Sunday mornings and read and just look out and BE. This is my version of luxury.

What is your motto?

I trust in Divine timing and am right where I need to be.

What is your current state of mind?

Positive for what the future holds and excited. When I first began practicing Feng Shui and Holistic Interior Design in 2018 nobody knew what it was. Post COVID, it seems there has been a wellness explosion and I am seeing a lot more designers begin practicing this way which excites me because I believe it is the future of interior design and as creators of spaces will allow us to help not only beautify people's lives but also improve and transform them.

What do you value most in your clients?

Their trust and openness. A huge part of holistic interior design is going deep with our clients. Getting to know them and understanding not only what they like design wise but what they need in their lives and where they're struggling. The more that clients share and open up to us the more we can create not only beautiful spaces for them but perhaps more importantly- spaces that nurture and support their well-being.

Who are your favorite artist, architect and designer?

Katherine Bernhardt is currently my favorite artist. The colors and subject matter of her paintings are simply awesome. Frank Lloyd Wright remains my favorite architect to date because he was a visionnaire and had the guts to do things his way. As for designers, there are so many- Kelly Wearstler, Studio Shamshiri and fellow IC member Crystal Sinclair. I love their work and seeing their work inspires me to do better.

At Gala Magrina Design we work with Clients that value the importance of creating a beautiful home for themselves and that want to work with a no-nonsense design team that is able to clearly chart the best way forward. What separates us from other Designers is our intuitive approach to design, a deep understanding of how people live and how best to create a space that nurtures that. We aim to merge cool and beautiful interiors with a holistic, mindful and intuitive approach to design that results in powerful spaces that elevate and transform people's lives.

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Are you an interior designer?

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