GACHOT is a design studio and development consultancy with service at its core. Led by principals John and Christine Gachot, the team brings together diverse skills in brand development, interior design, hospitality, and real estate development to overcome the constraints of physical space and deliver thoughtful, project-specific results.

Inspired by a modern sensibility with an eye towards livable comfort, GACHOT designs unique experiences with a refined aesthetic and a radical sense of place. Over the past five years projects include Pendry Manhattan West, Shinola Hotel, 67 Vestry Residences in TriBeCa, Pebble Bar & Johnny’s, Jac’s On Bond, and various private residential projects.

Christine Gachot is a principal of GACHOT, a hospitality development consultant, a founding member of the Female Design Council, a design ambassador for Neue House, and a board member of the Design Leadership Network. Prior to launching the studio with John, CG worked with André Balazs Properties as a partner in the role of Vice President of Design Development. There, she led the design and development of iconic hotels and commercial residential projects including Hotel QT, The Standard New York, 40 Mercer Residences, One Kenmare Square, and The Chiltern Firehouse. Before working with ABP, Christine worked as a Senior Designer at Studio Sofield for 10 years on numerous commercial and residential projects including the Soho and Tribeca Grand Hotels and Gucci Worldwide.

1. How did you begin designing interiors ?

My design career really started at Studio Sofield. I had been with Bill at AERO too, but I was fortunate enough to continue working for him for 10 years. I worked at reception, I worked as Bill’s assistant, I worked on events – I had the opportunity to do it all and be surrounded by the best! Bill was the person who encouraged me to commit to pursuing design – so I did and here we are!

2. Has there been a defining moment in your career ?

The talented people in the community that I’ve had the great fortune of working for and with have all been defining. Working in design, development, branding, and marketing/PR with Bill, of course, Andre Balazs, John, and the talented teams along the way.

3. What is your favorite type of client/project ?

We truly enjoy all our projects for different reasons (not a bad gig to have!). We always try to keep our portfolio diverse. The crossover of ideas from hospitality to residential and everything in between keeps all of us thinking creatively.

4. What do you think is the deciding factor in a successful interior design project ?

Collaboration always! We really enjoy being a part of the larger conversation with the team – the clients, architects, lighting designers, landscapers, and artisans who are all instrumental in the creation of a successful project. We are just one small part.

5. What is the most challenging aspect of your work ?

I feel very responsible for my team – the health of the company directly affects them. That’s usually what keeps me up a night and keeps me focused during the day.

6. How would you describe your creative process and its influences ? How do you get inspired ?

Be curious always! Travel, read, and engage. You never know where or how the next inspiration will percolate.

7. What advice would you give beginner designers ?

Ask questions, look, and LISTEN – there is always something to be learned! For those starting their own firms, hire a talented financial advisor, and always remember that you are not just a designer, you’re a business.

8. What would be the ideal place to design for you ?

Everyone knows I love a hotel project! Again I think it goes back to being involved in that larger conversation with clients, developers and operators. I love hearing what everyone has to say.

9. Could you describe a typical day of your work ?

It’s never typical when you run a company. Each day is truly unique and that’s what makes my job so special. My role specifically is very broad. I get to have my hands in every aspect of the studio, including finance, design, PR, branding – I really get to do it all. The pace is fast! I’m quick and able to juggle a lot and those close to me do the same.

10. How do you choose the specific materials you work with ?

Every project is different and requires different design intention. We try to be authentic to the “assignment” and good editors to the process.

11. What artists/creatives have influenced you ?

Bill Sofield, Axel Vervoodt, Ilse Crawford, Roman and Williams. John of course is my go-to! 

12. If you had to summarize your creations in one word or sentence, what would it be ?

Bringing a sense of home into hospitality and a sense of hospitality into the home. 

13. Do you have any books/programs/podcasts to recommend to our readers?

The New York Antiquarian Book Fair. We love scouring through and finding rare design books including the recent discovery of a phenomenally rare book of Japanese prints. The book triggered a flood of creative ideas for color and forms – inspiration for everything from fabrics to murals to rugs.

Photos: Nicole Franzen