Reflections in Design Magazine Winter 2026

IN DESIGN

reflections WINTER | 2026

An Enchanted Evening

FINDING THE

LIGHT

In Full Bloom

SOLUTION

IFDA New England’s 2025 Awards Gala

WHEN FASHION AND INTERIORS SPEAK THE SAME LANGUAGE

INSIDE THE MIND OF A VISIONARY nicole hogarty

When FASHION and INTERIORS Speak the Same Language

MYPUREPROTECTION.COM

DRAPERY CLEANING

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

MOTH TREATMENT

FABRIC PROTECTOR

REVIVING INTERIORS & RESTORING BEAUTY CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES INFO@MYPUREPROTECTION.COM

RUG CARE

ON THE COVER:

INSIDE THE MIND OF A VISIONARY p. 36

IN DESIGN

reflections WINTER / 2026

Rosemary Porto Editor-in-Chief EditorReflectionsMagazine@ifdane.net

John Trifone Managing Editor ifda.nec@gmail.com

Eunice Weckesser Publisher ifda.nec@gmail.com

Reflections in Design is a subscription magazine that is distributed at no charge to all IFDA-NE chapter members and subscribers.

Advertising Inquiries: ifda.nec@gmail.com Editorial Submissions: EditorReflectionsMagazine@ifdane.net Subscriptions: Send an email to ifda.nec@gmail.com with the subject “Subscription” and your email address to be added to the subscribers list.

IN DESIGN

reflections WINTER | 2026

TITLE p. XX

ART DIRECTION Jennifer Driscoll Megan Whipple

CONTRIBUTORS

EVELYN DOW Photography is Ev’s passion because it allows her to capture and preserve special moments for posterity. She enjoys chronicling her own family’s life through photographs and finds great joy in doing the same for others.

JULIE MATOS A fashion and style director and image consultant based in New York City, Los Angeles, and Boston, Julie crafts celebrity fashion, high-end style, and fashion editorial with bold creative vision.

TREVOR FULMER An award-winning interior and product designer who believes in the power of collaboration. His bias toward graphic interiors and sculptural silhouettes can be spotted in his Five Fab Finds.

GEORGIA ZIKAS With two decades of expertise, Georgia has earned a celebrated reputation for her innate ability to design, renovate, and build family properties that are classically inspired yet personality-driven.

INSIGHTS AND INSPIRATION FROM MADRID p. 65

ISSUE

in this

14

DESIGN CALENDAR Notable industry events from around the globe

20

AN ENCHANTED EVENING IN FULL BLOOM A recap of the 2025 Awards Gala

30

NOTEWORTHY DESIGN A colonial dining room reimagined

36

INSIDE THE MIND OF A VISIONARY Nicole Hogarty’s passion for design storytelling

41

BEHIND THE SCENES Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year

45

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN...

Fashion and interiors speak the same language

33

FINDING THE LIGHT SOLUTION Avoiding pitfalls in stone and light designs

RETRO STYLE

FEATURING

115 FRANKLIN STREET, QUINCY, MA 617 472 1710 HANCOCKAPPLIANCE.COM

ISSUE

in this

51

THE FINER DETAILS Exhibits worth exploring

57

FIVE FAB FINDS Designer Trevor Fulmer shares his favorites

59

BEYOND THE BORDERS Design in the Czech Republic, Italy, France, & Spain

70

RIDDING THE DESIGN WORLD OF PFAS Why true forever-chemical-free matters

73

A MAN ON A MISSION Discover Jim Gauthier’s mission to raise the bar

77

NURTURING TALENT & ADVANCING DESIGN Design scholarship and grant opportunities

60

WANDERLUST Bridging the gap between European manufacturers and US designers

FEIHC-NI-ROTIDE EHT MORF

In 2025, the Board of Directors of the New England Chapter asked me to serve as Editor-in-Chief of our new magazine, Reflections in Design. With deep gratitude and giddy excitement, I accepted. I have been an active member of IFDA since 1996, serving in many positions on the board; most notably as chapter president in 2002. This, as editor, affords me the pleasure and privilege of helping to promote the creativity of our members by showcasing designs, writing stories about their innovations, Finding the Light Solution, and accomplishments like Nicole Hogarty, Designer of the Year, as well as sharing important information for their professional development, Jim Gauthier, A Man on a Mission.

Our New England Chapter has grown to include all disciplines, including fashion design, floral design, art, and industrial design. We are creative creatures, including our industry partners and building trades. Reflections in Design will reach all IFDA members in our international network. We aim to grow our membership far and wide and to share the valuable benefits of membership.

I’m personally inviting you to reach out with your best designs, your exciting news, and your accomplishments. We will publish four issues a year. Just drop me an email. United, we are stronger and bolder than we’ve ever been.

Cheers!

Rosemary Porto ROSEMARY PORTO

OUR MISSION

At IFDA, our mission is to inspire collaboration within the furnishings and design industry to support its people, their products and services.

ROTIDE GNIGANAM EHT MORF

Design has always been personal to me. It’s how we live, how we connect, and how ideas come to life through collaboration, craftsmanship, and curiosity. was born from a desire to slow down and really look at what’s shaping our industry— and the people behind it.

My path has taken me through some incredible corners of the design world, from Waterworks, Ann Sacks, and Holly Hunt to my current role as Showroom Director at Minotti Boston. Along the way, being involved with organizations like IFDA New England and ASID New England has shown me just how powerful our design community can be when we share ideas and support one another.

As Managing Editor, I’m excited to use this platform to highlight thoughtful work, fresh perspectives, and meaningful conversations across interiors, architecture, art, and design culture. This first issue is just the beginning, and I’m glad you’re here to experience it with us.

Warm regards,

John Trifone JOHN TRIFONE

“Congratulations to John Trifone on a successful term as IFDA President, and best wishes to Eunice Weckesser as she steps into her incoming role as President!”

Taylor Borsari |Karyn Millet Photography

REHSILBUP EHT MORF

As Publisher of Reflections in Design, I’m incredibly proud to welcome you to the very first issue of IFDA New England’s magazine.This publication has been a long-held vision, one rooted in the belief that design is more than what we create; it’s how we connect, collaborate, and evolve together. Reflections in Design was born out of a desire to spotlight the people, ideas, and stories that shape our community, not just the finished spaces, but the journeys behind them.

As designers, creatives, makers, and industry leaders, we are constantly reflecting on where we’ve been, what inspires us now, and where we’re boldly headed next. This magazine is a platform for those reflections. A place to celebrate creativity, honor growth, and amplify voices across all corners of the design world.

This first issue represents collaboration at its best. It exists because of the passion, talent, and generosity of our members, partners, contributors, and supporters who, as I do, believe community is the heartbeat of great design. As I step into my role as Incoming President of IFDA New England, my mantra is simple and intentional: collaboration is the new competition. When we share ideas, support one another, and build together, we all rise, and our industry becomes stronger for it.

This launch reflects our collective momentum and our shared commitment to elevating design through connection, education, and opportunity. Together, we are building something that feels fresh, inclusive, and forward-thinking, while staying grounded in the values that make IFDA New England so special.

Thank you for being part of this moment, for supporting one another, and for continuing to push our industry forward. I hope Reflections in Design inspires you as much as it has inspired me.

With gratitude and excitement for what’s ahead,

Eunice Weckesser EUNICE WECKESSER

JANUARY/2026 08

23

REFLECTIONS IN DESIGN LAUNCH

DESIGNTO FESTIVAL

6:00 - 9:00 PM CBS Exotic Stones Winchester, MA Website Design takes center stage! Join us in celebrating the magazine’s debut with an evening of creativity, cocktails, and conversation.

January 23–February 1 Toronto, Ontario Website

27 COPENHAGEN FASHION WEEK

15

MAISON & OBJET January 15-19 Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre Paris, France Website

January 27–30 Copenhagen, Denmark Website

28 ALIS DESIGN+

20 IMM COLOGNE January 20-23 Koelnmesse Hall Cologne, Germany Website

DESIGN CALENDAR

January 28-29 JW Marriott/Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles, CA Website 29 MIDNIGHT MARCH EXHIBIT OPENING WITH ARTIST MASAKO MIKI January 29 - May 31 MassArt Art Museum (MAAM) Boston, MA Website

JOIN TODAY A worldwide professional alliance of leaders representing the diverse industries constituting the design universe.

WWW.IFDA.COM

MAKE YOUR CONNECTIONS THROUGH DESIGN

FEBRUARY/2026

11 NEW YORK FASHION WEEK

03

February 11-16 New York, NY Website

SURFACE DESIGN SHOW February 3-5 London, UK Website

06 TOKYO DESIGN FORUM February 16-18 Tokyo, Japan Website

10

17 DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION WEEK February 17-19 Orange County Convention Center Orlando, Florida Website A combination of the International Builders' Show (IBS) and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), for North America's largest industry gathering, with one pass accessing both huge trade shows.

JAMIE DIAMOND: MONSTRA TE ESSE MATREM February 10 – July 28 Boston, MA Website

28 ROOTED: 2026 PHS PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW February 28 - March 8 Pennsylvania Convention Center Philadelphia, PA Website

DESIGN CALENDAR

MARCH/2026 12 COLLECTIBLE BRUSSELS March 12-15 Brussels, Belgium Website 02 CAR // DESIGN EVENT 2026 March 2-4 Drivers and Business Club Munich, Germany Website

Experimental in its approach, COLLECTIBLE is a one-of-a-kind platform for the showcase and discovery of the best in contemporary collectible design. The fair brings together established and emerging galleries, design studios, independent makers and brands in a dynamic integrated space, while collaborating with leading curators, design institutions and foundations to deliver groundbreaking commissions and curated projects.

06 GLOBAL DESIGN THINKING WORKSHOP March 6-18 Potsdam, Germany Website

16 SXSW DESIGN TRACK March 16-18 Austin, TX Website

19 DESIGN SHANGHAI

DESIGN CALENDAR

March 19-22 Shanghai Exhibition Centre Shanghai, China Website

esign r

raperies

OF BOSTON

YOUR TRADE WORKROOM

PORCELANOSA.IT

Gala Master of Ceremonies (L) Ricardo Rodriguez and (R) Taniya Nayak stand with Best Residential Landscape Design award winner, Christopher Shirazi of LeBlanc Jones Landscape Architects

AN ENCHANTED EVENING IN FULL BLOOM: IFDA NEW ENGLAND’S 2025 AWARDS GALA From immersive installations to meaningful recognition, the IFDA New England 2025 Awards Gala delivered a night of elevated design, purposeful celebration, and enduring impact, where luxury and legacy met in full bloom.

BY JOHN TRIFONE / PHOTOGRAPHER: EV DOW PHOTOGRAPHY

On October 3, 2025, the International Furnishings and Design Association New England Chapter (IFDA-NE) transformed the historic Hilton Park Plaza Boston into a refined escape with its annual gala, themed Secret Garden.

The evening unfolded as an immersive celebration of design excellence, creative leadership, and the future of the industry, bringing together the region’s most influential voices in architecture and interiors.

Benefiting the IFDA Educational Foundation, the gala underscored its deeper purpose in supporting the next generation of design talent. Each year, the foundation awards nine scholarships for education and five grants to support students and professionals in their design careers. The focus on education and continued learning opportunities reinforces IFDA’s ongoing commitment to mentorship and innovation within the design community.

The evening began with an exclusive VIP reception at the Minotti Boston showroom, followed by guests' arrival at the Park Plaza for a cocktail reception, silent auction, and an elegant seated dinner.

Awards presentations and a lively after party completed the evening, blending sophistication with celebratory energy.

The Park Plaza ballroom was transformed into a lush, magical garden with a delicate palette of soft whites and gentle greens.

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER Floral installations flowed effortlessly across the room, thoughtfully designed by Winston’s Florist, creating depth and movement without overwhelming the setting. Outdoor lighting fixtures were artfully repurposed indoors and paired with candles set in clear glass cylinders, casting a warm, ambient glow that softened the room and blurred the boundary between interior and exterior—bringing the Secret Garden vision fully to life.

Marissa Perez and Vadim Kagan, Worldwide Cabinets Gallery

Tricia Matta, Newton Kitchens & Design

Jaci Conry, Boston Home/Boston Magazines, and Jack Yeaton, Boston Design Center

Cindy & Samatha Stumpo, C. Stumpo Development

Vani Sayeed, Vani Sayeed Studios, Niki Serras, Scavolini and live floral model in background

Berkeley Wlodarczak, FH Perry, Rosena Cornet and Megan Whipple, Broadview Marketing

Genesis Gonzalez, accompanied by fashion designer Sergio Hollender, wearing a dress from his Tropical Bloom collection

Kathy Bush Dutton, New England Home Magazine and winner of the Lifetime Achievement award with son, Adam Dutton

Carlotta Cubi, Cumar, Inc., and Tara Pavia, Kenneth Vona and Son Construction

The gala also announced the new Reflections in Design magazine. A custom photo activation invited guests to be photographed as the publication's cover stars, offering a playful yet polished moment that celebrated personal style while marking a significant new chapter for IFDA New England.

One of the evening’s most talked-about moments was an immersive installation featuring a central fountain and live models transformed into florals and living trees. The experience, enveloping equal parts art, nature, and performance, was brought to life by OLuxe Design in collaboration with Stone Showcase, creating a striking visual statement and a true sense of wonder.

Larissa Cook, Vani Sayeed and Vineet Malik pose for their cover shot

The evening was hosted by IFDA New England President John Trifone, alongside Janelle Driscoll, Group Publisher of Modern Luxury’s Interiors New England and Boston Common. Awards were presented by celebrated interior architect and television personality Taniya Nayak and Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Ambassador Ricardo Rodriguez.

Honorees received custom-designed glass awards by Glass Lab—modern keepsakes befitting the caliber of achievement.

The Secret Garden concept and décor were the vision of IFDA-NE Vice Presidents of Special Events, Michela Pearce and Isabelle Yabe of LeBlanc Design. Together, they crafted an environment that balanced fantasy with restraint, resulting in a setting that felt both transportive and impeccably curated.

Project awards were evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges, including Katy Lynn Retzbach, International President of IFDA; David Santiago, award-winning designer and founder of Casa Santi Interior Design; and Michael Mitchell, the creative force behind his Charleston-based design firm and retail destination.

Three premier honors defined the night. Nicole Hogarty was named Interior Designer of the Year. Her designs originate from the inside out, starting with clients’ daily lives and emotional connection to their home. Her aesthetic blends serenity with layered texture and carefully considered proportion.

Clients praise Nicole’s ability to translate their needs into functional, stylish homes. Her blend of heartfelt collaboration, artisanal finesse, design leadership, and documented excellence makes Nicole the top contender for Designer of the Year.

Architect of the Year was awarded to Nicholas Paolucci, who has earned numerous accreditations, demonstrating his expertise. His portfolio features green building practices, high-performance materials, tight building envelopes, and renewable technologies. He’s praised for collaborative, design-build execution, ensuring smooth coordination with builders and engineers for seamless project delivery. His resilient entrepreneurial path, shaped by personal milestones, reflects a deep passion, adaptability, and commitment.

INTERIOR DESIGNER OF THE YEAR: Nicole Hogarty

MORE PHOTOS

ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR: Nicholas Paolucci

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: Kathy Bush-Dutton

The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Kathy Bush-Dutton, recognizing her enduring influence on design media, industry development, and the design culture. Named one of Folio’s Top Women in Media in 2016, she has championed initiatives such as the New England Design Hall of Fame, the 5 Under 40 Awards, and the Luxury Home Design Summit.

Colleagues describe her as someone who skillfully balances editorial direction with revenue goals, forging genuine relationships and fostering a work culture of loyalty and connection. She has supported charitable programs, including scholarship funds and Habitat partnerships. Kathy has dedicated over four decades to empowering professionals and elevating the design culture, which makes her exceptionally qualified for the Lifetime Achievement Award.

2025 IFDA-NE

Design Award Recipients INTERIOR DESIGN (TRADITIONAL)

INTERIOR DESIGN (SPECIALTY)

Best Traditional Living Room Robin Gannon Interiors Best Traditional Home Office Digs Design Company Best Traditional Dining Room Michael Ferzoco, Eleven Interiors Best Traditional Kitchen Lisa Lally Best Traditional Bath Sarah Scales Design Studio

Best Smart Home Technology Patti Watson, Taste Design Inc. Best Specialty Project Tiffany LeBlanc, LeBlanc Design Best Showroom Newton Kitchens and Design, Tricia Matta Best Design Restaurant Taniya Nayak Design Best Design Retail Eunice Weckesser Best Interior Design Student Project Caroline Raber

INTERIOR DESIGN (TRANSITIONAL) Best Transitional Living Room Dennis Duffy Best Transitional Bedroom SV Design Best Transitional Dining Room Kelley Elizabeth Interiors Best Transitional Kitchen Rosemary Porto Best Transitional Bath Sage Conti

ARCHITECTURE DESIGN (RESIDENTIAL): Best Traditional Residential Architecture SV Design Best Transitional Residential Architecture SKA Best Modern Residential Architecture Pavlides Studio Best Residential Specialty Architecture Project LDa Architecture & Interiors Best Residential Student Architecture Project Troy Rudolph

INTERIOR DESIGN (MODERN) Best Modern Living Room Trevor Fulmer Best Modern Bedroom Leslie Fine Interiors Best Modern Kitchen FBN Construction Best Modern Bath Didi Interiors + Architecture

ARCHITECTURE DESIGN (COMMERCIAL): Best Restaurant Design MKA Architecture, LLC Best Commercial Student Project Troy Rudolph

Jamie Mitri Moss Pure

Michael Kim Michael Kim Associates

Best Floral Abstract/Creative Design / Photographer: David Lawlor

“The gala isn’t just about celebrating design, it’s about honoring the people and the passion that drives our industry forward.”

Vineet Malik Stone Showcase

Lisa Lally The Design Studio

Best Commercial Architecture Design-Restaurant Photographer: Chris Rucinski

Katharine Mast LDa Architecture & Interiors

Best Residential Architecture Design-Specialty Project / Photographer: Anna Julia Sacknowitz

Lulu Friedman Didi Interiors + Architecture Best Interior Design-Traditional Kitchen / Photographer: Joyelle West

Best Interior Design-Modern Bath / Photographer: Ben Gebo

2025 IFDA-NE

Design Award Recipients ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN:

EXCELLENCE FOR INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTIONS:

Best Residential Landscape Design LeBlanc Jones Landscape Architects Best Commercial Residential Landscape Design LeBlanc Jones Landscape Architects

INDUSTRIAL DESIGN: Best Sustainable Industrial Design Top Notch Contracting and Traverse Architects Best Industrial Design Product Lawless Upholstery and Furnishings

GRAPHIC DESIGN:

Designer to Watch Kristen Apicerno Spotlight Award Julie Dalton Community Spirit Kyle Tripp Industry Partner of The Year New Dimensions Excellence in Building Jim Foscaldo Excellence in Landscape Architecture Doug Jones Excellence in Photography Jessica Delaney Excellence in Fashion Design Meichi Peng

Best Graphic Design Branding Ellekin Cabinetry & Millwork Best Graphic Design Multimedia Manejah Terzi, Makkas Workroom

FASHION DESIGN: Best Fashion Design Accessory Vineet Malik, Stone Showcase NE

FLORAL DESIGN: Best Abstract/Creative Floral Design Jamie Mitri, Moss Pure Best Floral Event Design Erica Jones

Taniya Nayak (L) and Ricardo Rodriguez (R) present Julie Dalton with the Spotlight Award

AUTHENTIC

DESIGN COLLECTION

Authentic Design. From the Original Source.

Curated partnerships with original designers and manufacturers. www.authenticdesigncollection.com | e: info@authenticdesigncollection.com | t:551-400-0024

N O T E W O R T H Y

DESIGN

BY ROSEMARY PORTO

Boston interior designer Sarah Scales feels rooted in architectural details. Her recent project in Concord, MA, is a fine example of her skill in blending historical bones with clean modern elements. She chose a classic combination for her color scheme: black and white with textured neutrals. Add restored naturalwood cabinets and a sleek dining room table, and the room is ready for an elegant dinner party. The plaster ceiling medallion crowns a chic hand-blown-globes modern chandelier. Its burnished finish is reminiscent of the industrial design of years past. Sarah’s skillful restraint created a modern interior with an enduring respect for history.

LEBLANC DESIGN, LLC. | BOSTON & MARTHA’S VINEYARD 560 HARRISON AVE, SOUTH END | 12 COURNOYER RD, WEST TISBURY PHOTO BY READ MCKENDREE

finding the LIGHT SOLUTION

BY ROSEMARY PORTO

Problem-solving is the beating heart of every design process. Sure, we can make our clients’ environments more beautiful, functional, and uniquely theirs, but executing the best way to arrive at a happy ending can leave us in the dark.

Two long-time IFDA members, Dawn Carroll and Lucy Dearborn, collaborated with Rodrigo Silva at CBS Exotic Stone in Winchester on one such challenge. He jumped at the opportunity to support this collaboration by installing this innovation in his extensive stone showroom. They designed and installed The Wall of Light using the latest lighting technology to backlight stone slabs: Onyx, Marble, Quartzite, and some Granites. Their method can be used for vertical and horizontal surfaces.

During Dawn’s many years working with stone, which she calls “archaeology wonders” for designers, architects, and builders, she knows first-hand how unpredictable natural stone can be when back-lit. She has a list of failed tries.

“When light is added to stone, its imperfections and variations in the intrinsic minerals hijack a successful installation.” Dawn joked, “Don’t trust your cell phone light for help.”

Urgency and necessity fueled the team’s pursuit of a stable, successful way to help their clients backlight their stone designs. Rodrigo Silva at CBS Exotic Stone in Winchester was eager for this display to live in his showroom and to offer this unique learning opportunity.

Enter Lucy Dearborn, owner of Lucia Lighting, who has spent her celebrated career lighting projects for the trade and consumers. Together, they found the ideal invention using the latest LED lighting and advanced control technology.

When light is added to stone, its imperfections and variations in the intrinsic minerals hijack a successful installation.

INTRODUCING

THE WALL

OF LIGHT A simple yet effective lighting solution for a precise look or mood with translucent stone.

Stepping Stone Series B Y D A W N C A R R O L L

(781)

721-3415

(781)595-0026

LEARN ABOUT OUR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL WALL OF LIGHT STONE CONTEST

INSIDE THE MIND OF A VISIONARY

NICOLE HOGARTY

BY ROSEMARY PORTO / PHOTOGRAPHY: READ MCKENDREE / JBSA

In the heart of Boston’s design scene, Nicole Hogarty has carved out a reputation for creating spaces that are as timeless as they are tailored. Known for her ability to blend classic New England charm with modern sophistication, Hogarty approaches every project with an eye for detail and a deep understanding of how interiors shape the way we live. From historic brownstones to contemporary urban lofts, her work reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and a passion for storytelling through design. We sat down with Nicole to explore her creative process, her inspirations, and what it takes to bring a client’s vision to life in today’s ever-evolving design landscape.

INSIDE THE MIND OF A VISIONARY

RP: Congratulations on being named Designer of the Year at the IFDA 2025 Awards Gala. Looking back on that evening, what did this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

Designed to host extended family for holidays while serving comfortably year-round, the dining room’s bar and two club chairs create a quiet spot for conversation

NH: So honored and grateful. Having served as IFDA President in 2013, this recognition feels like a beautiful full-circle moment with a community that has been such an important part of my journey.

RP: The gala’s Secret Garden theme celebrated discovery, beauty, and transformation—all qualities reflected in your work. How did that theme resonate with your design philosophy?

NH: Certainly, transformation resonated, as an interior designer who believes in embracing new ideas, learning from each project, and allowing experiences, both personal and professional, to shape a deeper, more authentic creative voice.

RP: Which recent project do you feel best embodies your creative vision and approach to design?

NH: The Beacon Street Brownstone project embodies our present design philosophy, quiet luxury, intentional beauty, comfort, and enduring style. Every detail reflects a sense of ease and refinement, a space designed to feel both timeless and deeply personal. Now in our fourth collaboration with this family, the project celebrates the trust, shared language, and lasting friendship that have grown over years of creating together, a true reflection of the harmony between designer and client.

RP: How has your design aesthetic evolved over time, and what experiences or influences have shaped that evolution?

NH: My design aesthetic has evolved and been shaped by travel, diverse experiences, and a curiosity for new ideas.

Each project and every place I’ve encountered has left an imprint, encouraging me to experiment, embrace discovery, and refine my approach. I draw inspiration from our clients’ stories and visions, which challenge me to see spaces through fresh perspectives. Above all, my team’s creativity, insight, and daily dedication continually inspire me, helping shape a collaborative vision that is ever-evolving, thoughtful, and deeply personal.

An amateur car collector, the client inspired the room’s open-road motifs—from vintage tether cars on the mantel to automotive art.

INSIDE THE MIND OF A VISIONARY Painted in No Curfew by Backdrop, the pool room channels a modern speakeasy. Outside lights glitter at night, amplifying the historic charm and relaxed spirit.

RP: Balancing creativity with the realities of client expectations and budgets can be challenging. How do you maintain that equilibrium?

NH: Interior designers are creative problem solvers at heart.

Balancing budget, client expectations, my own standards, along with time constraints, requires clear communication, thoughtful planning, and the ability to pivot. We strive for each project to unfold smoothly, allowing life to happen and leaning into change as it comes, while finding solutions that honor the client’s vision and maintain design integrity and quality. The result is a space that is not only beautiful and functional but also meaningful and true to our collective vision.

RP: Collaboration plays such an essential role in design. Who have been some of your most influential partners, mentors, or collaborators?

Nicole Hogarty’s work reveals its impact through quiet, intentional choices that shape a sense of wellbeing as seen in this primary suite.

NH: Some of the most meaningful lessons in my career have come from the incredible people I’ve collaborated with.

Immediately, I think of our metal fabricator, an owner’s representative, and a showroom representative who have profoundly helped me throughout my career. They’ve inspired me, challenged me, and taught me to see design, craft, and business in entirely new ways. It’s through these types of collaborations that the work truly comes alive. When creativity, expertise, and shared passion intersect, the result is always richer than anything I could achieve alone. These experiences continue to shape not just my projects, but the way I approach design itself.

RP: As you look toward the future, what design trends or movements are you most inspired to explore?

NH: As I look toward the future, my focus is on deepening relationships with inspired clients, talented artisans, and trusted partners, who share a passion for meaningful design. While I stay aware of broader movements in design, I’m more interested in creating spaces that resonate on a personal level and spaces that reflect a client’s individuality rather than a moment in time. I want to continue building on the creative synergy that comes from true collaboration, while nurturing the relationships that have shaped my journey so far. I’m also committed to developing as a leader, one who inspires confidence and makes my team proud. Equally important to me is being a champion for other designers and the next generation, creating opportunities, sharing knowledge, and nurturing their growth in this ever-evolving industry. I see this t

INSIDE THE MIND OF A VISIONARY

next chapter as a time for growth: taking on new challenges, pushing creative boundaries, and exploring just how far I can strengthen and evolve our studio. It’s about continuing to refine not only the work we create, but also the culture and values that define us.

RP: What advice would you offer to emerging designers who aspire to one day earn this level of recognition?

NH: The best advice I can give to the next generation of interior designers is to surround yourself with the right team and seek out mentors who challenge and inspire you. Ask questions, remain humble, and be open to feedback; these are the tools that help you grow. Always lean into learning, embrace curiosity, and approach each project as an opportunity to expand your perspective. Be willing to put in the work, recognize your value, and understand that success is not linear.

A custom North Forty Studio console with undulating curves that reference the movement of water. The artwork is by Edward Lentsch

BÉZIER DESIGN MARCIO KOGAN 210 STUART STREET BOSTON MINOTTIBYDDC.COM

BEHIND THE SCENES

Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year

BY ROSEMARY PORTO

How does Benjamin Moore decide which color in their extensive array of over three thousand five hundred paint colors is the

WINNER?

Every October, the interior design community eagerly awaits Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year. IFDA NE annually hosts a meeting to announce the color at the Ethan Allen Design Center in Natick. This year, at a lovely luncheon, I nibbled on sushi while listening to our rep, IFDA member Marion Beaulieu, present an excellent CEU program. A question poked me over and over—How does Benjamin Moore decide which color in their extensive array of over three thousand five hundred paint colors is the winner? I expressed my nagging curiosity to Marion, who jumped to it and introduced me to Andrea Magno, Benjamin Moore’s Director of Color and Design, who shared the inside scoop on their meticulous process.

The Color of the Year for 2026: Silhouette, AF-655, is a rich espresso with burnt-ember hues and truffle notes. Warm and moody, like a room filled with old books, rich leather, and a crackling fire. “Silhouette is a drenching color, with a deep saturation of many pigments,” Andrea explained.

In October 2024, the process for 2026 began, with Andrea leading a team of six colleagues in brainstorming trends in textiles, furniture, art, and fashion. Next, recent sales patterns were studied for consumer buying trends, such as a popular violet with a cool blue base morphing into a warm pinkish lilac in sales figures. Hence, Batik AF-610 arrived as one of eight colors in the complementary 2026 palette.

Then it was a boots-on-the-ground research strategy. Andrea hit the road for Paris Fashion Week, the Salone di Mobile in Milan, and London Design Week. The overwhelming trend she found was a return to tailored classics in fashion and furniture. Bespoke details like carved millwork and rich fabrics emerged as a common theme.

She suggested looking at Jack Lenor Larsen’s textile legacy as an example.

After months of team meetings and further research, classic design became the benchmark for 2026, and Silhouette was the winning color.

Every year, controversy about the chosen color palette circulates, yays and neighs abound. But with Benjamin Moore’s well-marketed announcement, The Color of the Year gives us design professionals something to think about, to reconsider our tried-and-true go-to whites and accents. Andrea and her cohorts give us a springboard for change, a way to look at our color choices with a global rather than a local perspective.

Since October 2025, Andrea and her team have been back at their research process for The Color of the Year 2027. Now that we know how they do it, we gratefully look forward to seeing what color and trends they come up with next.

COLOR OF THE YEAR 2026

GET YOUR SUBSCRIPTION TODAY

NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Enjoy quarterly industry news Free subscription Calendar + links to design events

VISIT US ONLINE Stay in the know Read anytime, anywhere

WWW.IFDANE.ORG

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN...

FASHIO N AND INTERIO RS SPEAK THE SAME LANGU AGE

BY JULIE MATOS PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF JULIE MATOS

The most compelling fashion stories don’t exist in isolation; they live within spaces. In Paris, where architecture carries as much cultural weight as clothing, the relationship between interiors and fashion becomes undeniable.

This fashion editorial moment illustrates how the two disciplines work best when they are in conversation rather than competition. Both rely on proportion, texture, restraint, and, above all, quality.

Fashion and interiors share the same foundation: materials matter.

A well-cut garment and a thoughtfully designed room are built on structure before decoration. In this story, the historic interior, layered with stone, plaster, and tapestry, offers a tactile richness that mirrors the craftsmanship of the clothing. The softness of fabric against hard architectural surfaces creates contrast, allowing each element to enhance the other. This balance is what makes the image feel timeless rather than trend driven.

Texture.

"Texture is the common language. In fashion, texture adds depth to a silhouette; in interiors, it creates warmth and dimension."

The dress’s fluid drape feels intentional against the aged walls and worn floors, much like a silk or wool piece grounding a minimalist wardrobe. Gloves and metal accents introduce a sharper edge, echoing the way contemporary interiors often pair antique elements with modern materials, steel beside stone, leather against linen. It’s not about matching; it’s about tension.

Current trends in both fashion and interiors point toward this thoughtful layering. We’re seeing a return to heritage references, classical proportions, artisanal finishes, balanced by modern styling. In interiors, that translates to rooms that feel collected rather than designed: vintage furniture mixed with sculptural lighting, patina embraced instead of erased. In fashion, it’s the same philosophy: fewer pieces, better made, styled with intention.

This shift speaks directly to the growing emphasis on quality over quantity. Consumers are moving away from excess and toward investment pieces that hold meaning, age beautifully, and remain relevant beyond a season. A well-made garment, like a welldesigned space, doesn’t rely on trends to feel current. Its relevance comes from craftsmanship, fit, and material integrity.

Paris has always championed this approach. Its interiors are not constantly reinvented; they are refined over time. Fashion, when done well, follows the same rhythm. Lanvin's design language especially reflects this sensibility, clean lines, considered volume, and an understanding that restraint often makes the strongest statement. The clothing doesn’t overpower the space, and the space doesn’t overshadow the clothing. They coexist.

There’s also an emotional connection at play. Spaces shape how we feel, just as clothes do. When both are thoughtfully curated, they create confidence and presence rather than noise. This is why editorial fashion works so well within strong interiors; the environment adds context, grounding the look in a lifestyle rather than a moment.

Ultimately, the relationship between fashion and interiors is about intention. Both ask the same questions: How does this piece live? How does it age? How does it make you feel? When quality leads the conversation, the result is something enduring.

True style isn’t about accumulation, it's about curation. Whether dressing a room or a body, the most powerful statement is knowing when to choose less and choosing it well.

The Finer Details

EXHIBITS WORTH EXPLORING Masako Miki: Midnight March. Installation view: Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco. Courtesy of the artist, RYAN LEE Gallery, New York, and Jessica Silverman, San Francisco. Photo: Nicholas Lea Bruno

Masako Miki. Umbrella’s Whispers, 2025.

Collection Dear Kala Trust. Photo: Nicholas Lea Bruno.

Masako Miki: Midnight March January 29 – May 31, 2026 On Thursday, January 29, Boston's only free contemporary art museum, MassArt Art Museum (MAAM), will celebrate the opening of Artist Masako Miki’s largest exhibition of Midnight March on the East Coast from 6-9 pm. Miki will be present.

This experiential world is populated by semiabstracted felted wool sculptures set within a galaxy. Referencing nature, Japanese yōkai (supernatural beings), and Shintoism, Miki creates new mythologies that reflect the complexity of multicultural identities and worlds.

Miki’s practice is rooted in the belief that art can generate new, inclusive narratives to counter harmful lore. The artist seeks to bridge cultural divides and foster shared understanding.

MassArt Art Museum (MAAM) 621 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA maam.massart.edu

Masako Miki. Midnight March

EXHIBITS WORTH EXPLORING

Above: Press & Pull: Two Decades at Robert Blackburn Printmaking Workshop. Installation view: The James Gallery CUNY Graduate Center. Right: Untitled (aka Broken Stone), 1960s-1971.

Uneditioned. Courtesy Estate of Robert Blackburn Photo: Argenis Apolinario

Press & Pull: Two Decades at the Robert Blackburn Printmaking Workshop January 22 – May 31, 2026 Opening on January 22, 2026, Press & Pull: Two Decades at the Robert Blackburn Printmaking Workshop traces the Workshop’s early foundations, culture of innovation, and ongoing role as a hub for collaboration and mentorship.

Featuring more than 35 prints by legacy and contemporary artists, the exhibition celebrates the impact of Robert Blackburn (1920–2003) and his enduring vision of equity, experimentation, and community in American printmaking.

MassArt Art Museum (MAAM) 621 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA maam.massart.edu

Jamie Diamond: Monstra Te Esse Matrem, 2026 [rendering] © Jamie Diamond. Image courtesy of Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston

EXHIBITS WORTH EXPLORING

Step into a season of art that explores identity, persona, and selfreflection. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum’s upcoming exhibitions invite you to see photography and portraiture in new ways.

Jamie Diamond: Monstra Te Esse Matrem, 2026 February 10 – July 28, 2026 Artist-in-Residence Jamie Diamond transforms the museum’s façade with a striking work that asks: What does it mean to be a mother?

Claude Cahun (French, 1894–1954) I am in training don't kiss me, 1927 Gelatin silver print.

Courtesy of the Jersey Heritage Collections

Persona: Photography and the Re-Imagined Self Unidentified photographer, A. Piatt Andrew, Isabella Stewart Gardner, and Jack Mabbett, 1908. Gelatin silver print. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston

Picturing Isabella February 19 – June 21, 2026 Explore rare photographs that reveal the elusive image of Isabella Stewart Gardner, who famously avoided the camera as her fame grew.

February 19 – May 10, 2026 Discover how artists since the 1920s have used photography to create alter egos—playful, political, and aspirational—that challenge cultural norms and stereotypes.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum 25 Evans Way, Boston, MA gardnermuseum.org

EXHIBITS WORTH EXPLORING

John Adams Whipple (American, 1822–1891), Isabella Stewart Gardner and John L. Gardner III, 1864. Albumen print on card. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston

Samuel Fosso (Cameroonian), Self-Portrait (Malcolm X) from African Spirits series, 2008. Ilford Fiberbased Glossy Paper. © Samuel Fosso. Courtesy of artist and Yossi Milo, New York.

Yasumasa Morimura (Japanese), An Inner Dialogue with Frida Kahlo (Skull Ring), 2001. Digital chromogenic print mounted on aluminum. © Yasumasa Morimura; Courtesy of the artist and Luhring Augustine, New York.

Jamie Diamond (American), 1.21.11, I Promise to be a Good Mother, 2011. Archival pigment print. © Jamie Diamond.

Courtesy of the artist and Kewenig Gallery.

Adolf de Meyer (French, 1868–1946, active in the United States), Isabella Stewart Gardner Wearing a Veil, 1906. Platinum print. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston

5

FIVE FAB FINDS

TREVOR FULMER In the world of design, inspiration often comes from the details, and few people have an eye for standout pieces like Trevor Fulmer. Known for his impeccable taste and trend-savvy approach, Trevor curates five fabulous finds that reflect the latest in style, innovation, and artistry. His selections don’t just elevate spaces; they spark creativity, connect readers with emerging brands, and showcase the kind of thoughtful design that defines his work. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or a passionate enthusiast, these picks promise to refresh your perspective and keep you ahead of the curve.

BEYOND THE

BORDERS Prague, Czech Republic: A tour of BOMMA’s Atelier inside the landmark Cubist style, Diamond House

Paris, France: DCWéditions In The Sun rechargeable LED table lamp

Designed and crafted in Italy, Spazio by Falmec is a Vittorio Veneto,system Italy: Falmec’s Spazio is a superior ventilation engineered for practicality superior, multi-purposed ventilation system

Madrid, Spain: Fashion Designer, Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada studio

Take a journey starting in the Czech Republic, extending through Northern Italy, and into France and Spain.

WANDERLUST

Michael Rogers of BOMMA presents Flare

BY ANN MAKOFSKI

In October of last year, a group of designers, architects, and builders emerged from their rooms overlooking the streets leading to Old Town in Prague. They converged at a cafe where they met for the first time, between carafes of freshly squeezed orange juice and homemade lemonade, platters of breads, pastries, pies, fruits, yogurt, and, of course, espresso. After a few handshakes and polite introductions, the creative . tthe

collective from New England, the Midwest, New York, and even France embarked on a five-day exploration of various cultures, designs, and manufacturers in the Czech Republic and Italy’s Lombardy and Veneto regions..

During their journey, they exchanged valuable insights on creative processes and industry challenges, ultimately fostering a close-knit community of diverse cosmopolitan designers.

BEYOND THE BORDERS

DAY 1 The tour began in Prague, exploring historic streets before visiting the landmark Cubist Diamond House, where BOMMA’s Atelier displays its striking crystal lighting, set against the backdrop of historic interiors and dramatic architecture. Inside their factory, BOMMA’s artisans showcased glassblowing and polishing techniques. The day ended with BOMMA’s Designblock exhibit at the Kovařovic Villa.

BOMMA’s Designblock 2025 exhibit | Kovařovic Villa, Prague

DAY 2 In Milan, the group explored Tooy’s innovative lighting, Contardi’s refined standard collection and bespoke solutions, and DCWéditions’ playful French tabletop lights inside a beautiful 18th-century historic palazzo in Montichiari, known for its frescoes, antique floors, and garden.

TOOY’s Bolina sconce designed

by Fabio Fantolino

DAY 3 In the countryside of Valpolicella, the group joined a cooking class with Cookbook Author and Chef Davide Bonaldi, then toured Antolini’s stone factory to admire acres and acres of exotic stones and gemstones. The day ended with dinner and an overnight stay in a castle, high in the Prosecco Dolomites, creating a fairy-tale experience.

Pasta and Risotto Coolking Class in Valpolicella , Italy

Antolini Luigi®/Stone Showcase NE exhibits 12' bookmatched Dalmata Marble polished stone

Contardi’s Calypso designed by Servomuto, inspired by tropical South American culture

Fulgor Milano’s Sophia 36” dual fuel range with 5-in-1 Crescendo burners and a Trilaminate Stainless griddle

BOMMA’s Designblock 2025 exhibit

BEYOND THE BORDERS

DAY 4 At the start of the day, Falmec, a manufacturer of advanced kitchen ventilation systems, opened its doors to guests awestruck by its quiet technology (NRS®) for silent kitchen comfort and by advanced features like the No-Drop™ System to prevent condensation. Next, Fulgor Milano took the designers through the process of fabricating luxury appliances.

Most notable were the clever outdoor grills and oven options for the luxe city dweller.

View from restaurant by the canal in Treviso, Italy

DAY 5 In Venice, the group traveled by mahogany cigar boats to Murano, visiting Barovier & Toso’s historic glass factory and viewing impressive chandeliers and installations. The trip ended at the Biennale, with everyone departing inspired for 2026 projects on the boards.

SWING pendant lamp by Barovier&Toso, Murano, Italy

Now It's Your Turn To Explore: Designers who dream of immersing themselves in this world of artistry and innovation should apply now for the upcoming June tour—spaces are limited, and the experience is truly one-of-a-kind.

Visit BroadviewTours.com

Mahogany cigar boats transfer attendees to their respective destinations between Barovier&Toso on the island of Murano and Biennale in Venice

Opening Night at La Imprenta / Photo: Sophie Davidson

INSIGHTS AND INSPIRATION FROM

MADRID A Design Excursion

BY GEORGIA ZIKAS

There are certain trips that leave you buzzing long after the wheels touch down at home, and my recent journey to Madrid with the Design Leadership Network is one of them.

From the time we arrived, the city unfolded as a rich backdrop for connection, creativity, and cultural exchange.

Madrid, timeless yet ever-evolving, proved a perfect host for a gathering of design minds from around the globe.

Our opening night set the tone beautifully. We stepped into

La Imprenta, once a historic printing house and now a strikingly reimagined event space. Its soaring volumes, preserved industrial bones, and thoughtful modern interventions made it an ideal venue for our welcome dinner.

Surrounded by colleagues and new friends, we toasted to the days ahead while taking in the layered history etched into the building’s walls, a reminder of how design can honor the past while embracing the future.

BEYOND THE BORDERS

Opening Night at La Imprenta with Flamenco dancer / Photo: Sophie Davidson

Day two brought a full slate of general sessions that inspired, challenged, and awed us. Santiago Calatrava, the visionary architect behind the World Trade Center Transportation Hub in New York, shared insights into his sculptural approach to form and movement.

Pablo López Navarro and Adam Lowe of the Factum Foundation illuminated the power of advanced technologies in art preservation and replication—an especially resonant topic in a city so deeply tied to its artistic legacy. Fashion designer Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada dazzled with her signature exuberance, showing us that color and whimsy can be as serious as they are joyful. And interior designer Michael S. Smith recounted his experience transforming the U.S. Embassy in Madrid, transporting us into his world of diplomacy and design.

Cibeles Square, Madrid, Spain / Photo: Getty Images

BEYOND THE BORDERS

Classical Madrid architecture / Photo: Georgia Zikas

Catalan Modernism style, Arabic influences / Photo: Georgia Zikas

The result was a day rich with ideas, spanning architecture, art, fashion, and global interiors—all united by a desire to elevate the human experience through design.

On day three, the momentum continued. Madrid-based Francisco Javier López Navarrete, who divides his time between the city and MIT, offered sharp, future-focused reflections on leadership and innovation. Isabel LópezQuesada charmed the room with stories from her design studio, weaving humor and authenticity into her philosophy. She reminded us that levity can soften challenges and reveal unexpected creativity. Across the lineup of esteemed voices, the programming balanced substance with storytelling.

Afternoons were reserved for small-group Behind-the- tl

Scenes Tours highlights, in their own right. One of my most memorable visits was to the private apartment and gallery of Marta de la Rica. We entered a jewel box of art and personality, where Picassos hung alongside works by leading contemporary Spanish artists. Marta’s curatorial eye and personal warmth created an intimate glimpse into Madrid’s vibrant art world. Another standout tour was the home of Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada.

True to form, every inch was saturated with color, pattern, and bold expression—a living extension of her fashion identity. Both visits offered unparalleled insight into how design is lived, collected, and celebrated in this grand city.

Evenings were equally extraordinary. We enjoyed small gatherings with chef-driven dinners in the magnificent Liria Palace, home to one of Spain’s most historic ll

BEYOND THE BORDERS

aristocratic families, and at Club Matador, a discreet members-only haven in the chic Salamanca district.

Club Matador’s refined atmosphere and impeccable architecture captured the elegance of Madrid’s contemporary social scene, making it the perfect place to unwind and reflect.

As the trip came to a close, I was filled with gratitude —for the beauty of Madrid, for the conversations, the shared experiences, and the reminder of why our design community is necessary. The city welcomed us with open arms, and in return, we left with renewed, inspired creativity, deeper connections, and countless stories.

Georgia inside Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada’s apartment in Madrid

Dine Around Dinner at Club Matador, a discreet members-only haven in the chic Salamanca district / Photo: Sophie Davidson

The Italian Sense of Beauty

BY ROSEMARY PORTO AND ANTHONY MIKLASZEWSKI

Fabric protection has long been essential in luxury residential work, preserving bespoke upholstery, rugs, and drapery from the realities of daily living. But as “PFAS-free” treatments become more common, many designers are discovering that the term isn’t as straightforward or as trustworthy as it sounds.

THE PFAS PROBLEM IN PERFORMANCE TEXTILES Per and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic compounds used to repel water, oil, stains, and dirt. For decades, they’ve been embedded in performance fabrics, rug backings, and upholstery treatments because they work exceptionally well. The concern is that PFAS do not work

degrade—they persist in the environment and can accumulate in the body; research has shown that exposure to PFAS is linked to developmental issues, immune suppression, metabolic disruption, and certain cancers. This is significant for designers who specify materials in family homes, nurseries, and wellness-driven spaces.

HOW DESIGNERS CAN VET PRODUCTS Scrutinize permanent protection claims; Long-lasting Repellency signals fluorinated technology.

Request ingredient transparency and push vendors

THE PFAS-FREE LOOPHOLE As awareness grows, many products claim to be PFASfree, but manufacturers often interpret that claim narrowly. They exclude regulated PFAS while using newer fluorinated compounds or PFAS precursors that eventually break down into the same dangerous chemicals.

for full disclosure, rather than marketing language.

Bottom line: PFAS-free treatments still contain dangerous fluorinated chemistry.

programs test for fluorinated compounds.

Review

Safety

Data

Sheets

(SDS).

These

documents can reveal inconsistencies between claims and actual contents.

Confirm certifications that address PFAS; not all

A new wave of PFAS-free solutions, such as THE PATH FORWARD Designers are uniquely positioned to lead a shift towards improving textile protection. While major manufacturers are phasing out of PFAS, and states are increasing restrictions, designers can ask better questions, audit product libraries, and educate their clients. Knowledge is power, and it will help interior designers define the next level of safety standards in luxury interiors.

nanotechnology barriers, plant-based treatments, and material-first approaches using naturally resilient fibers, offer meaningful protections without relying on forever chemicals. These options may require more frequent maintenance, but they align better with wellness-minded design.

For more resources, visit www.mypureprotecion.com

A MAN ON A MISSION

jim gauthier

BY ROSEMARY PORTO

“I want to push our talented design community to new levels of success.

Take more risks and be more creative to raise the bar for interior design on the national stage.”

Kenilworth Manor Photo: Ben Flythe

On a late September sunny morning, I sat at a table in Tatte on Harrison Avenue sipping a mocha-latte with Jim Gauthier. All it took was five minutes, and I fell under the spell of his exuberant charm. Jim and I have known each other for years, being active members of our vibrant Boston Design community, but this was the first time I had him all to myself. We didn’t need to review his accomplishments—his years at the lauded design firm, Bierly-Drake Associates, his twenty-six-year partnership with Susan Stacy, his awards, and his publications. All this is public knowledge. I needed to know what Jim was up to now.

A MAN ON A MISSION

UWS Penthouse, Photo: Courtesy of Gauthier/Stacy Inc.

Palm Beachin, Photo: Sam Gray

After taking some time to think about his next chapter, Jim realized he was ready to step into a role he had longed for: mentoring other design professionals. He told me, “I want to push our talented design community to new levels of success. Take more risks and be more creative to raise the bar for interior design on the national stage.”

To do so, Jim established Jim Gauthier and Company, a fullservice Interior Design and Industry Advisory Services firm.

After spending thirty-five years in the industry, seeing the good, the bad, and the ugly of our profession, he’s in a rare position to share his knowledge and experience as a coach to designers and design firms.

“Design isn’t just my profession,” Jim said, “It’s my way of life.” His goal for his new venture is to help other designers problem-solve, fine-tune their practices, and advise them to make more money and grow their businesses.

He offers consulting packages, ranging from a ninety-minute session to focus on a specific challenge to a three-month intensive program geared toward large firms. Each level includes recordings of the sessions, written strategic action plans, and recommendations. His mission is simply stated on his website.

“Kindness is my compass.”

Jim Gauthier, energetic and dynamic, with an easy sense of humor, is destined for his new role as coach, advisor, and mentor.

NURTURING TALENT ADVANCING DESIGN Did you know that since the International Furnishings

generally require a major in interior design or a related

and

IFDA

design/furnishings program, unless otherwise noted.

separate

Applicants need not be U.S. citizens, but must attend

Design

Educational

Association’s Foundation

founding,

(IFDA-EF),

the a

philanthropic entity, has awarded almost $1 million in

school in the U.S.

scholarships to deserving students nationwide and grants to talented professionals?

Grant applications are accepted in June for professionals working in the interior design or furnishingsrelated fields, not for undergraduate students.

In 2025 alone, the total funds awarded equaled $30,800.

This year’s winners undertook challenges related to universal design, historic preservation, advancing

For scholarships, applications are accepted each year

interior

between March 1 and March 31. The scholarships are

development

for

expanding horizons.

undergraduate

and

graduate

students

and

design

programs,

through

and

research

professional

initiatives

and

1

2025 GRANT & SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Hessam Ghamari

Nathan Kindell

Cyndi Parker

Candice Thomas

Michaela Simon

Applications are judged by a subset of the IFDA-EF Board

Rosa Otero

Allegra Codamon

Tommy Blevins

Hugo Nakashima Brown

Diego Fernandez Ortiz Cortes

Scott Grove

Heather Hill

Rebecca Grace Porterfield

Mary Beth Dicen

Want to get involved or apply?

Visit www.ifdaef.org

IFDA.COM

DESIGN PROFESSIONALS:

ITS TIME TO

Whether you’re a furniture maker, architect, builder, interior designer, product inventor, graphic designer, app developer, fashion creator, or design student, we get you! nvest in Your Career: IFDA provides resources to enhance your business. oster Relationships: IFDA encourages innovation through collaboration. evelop the Next Generation: IFDA connects all experience levels for a strong design future. ct and Benefit: IFDA offers professional grants, volunteer service projects, and award opportunities.