Nicole Fuller, founder and principal of Nicole Fuller Interiors, is an internationally acclaimed interior designer renowned for her artfully appointed, one-of-a-kind residential and commercial spaces. A member of ELLE Decor magazine’s coveted A-List and Luxe magazine’s Gold List, Nicole’s work is synonymous with sophisticated, nuanced luxury, where attention to detail, savoir faire, and a cultivated eye culminate in spaces that are as singular as her clients. 

Nicole’s passion for interior design blossomed organically, designing spaces for friends until eventually people caught wind of her keen eye and began requesting her services professionally. Her background in fashion, both as a model and director of fashion films, informs her design process intimately, often referencing a client’s style as a jumping-off point for the direction of their design. Having grown up in a creative environment with an artist mother, Nicole finds sustenance in art; she has spent her career cultivating relationships with top-tier artists, gallerists, and nascent talent. She has a keen understanding of the art market and exclusive access, allowing the art advisory aspect of her business to flourish organically. Nicole’s nuanced understanding of design and art has made her a favorite among the creative class spanning from artists to fashion designers whom she has had as long-standing clients, including Usher, Gianvito Rossi, Steven Klein, Cass Bird, and Questlove.

1. Could you tell us how your journey into interior design started? And whether you think there has been a defining moment in your career?

My background was originally in fashion, where I was a model and director of fashion films. I’ve always had a love and appreciation for the way people express themselves and their individuality through fashion, and the same idea applies to interior design. I started designing spaces for my friends, and eventually, people began asking me for my help in a professional capacity which led to where I am today. A defining moment in my career was definitely signing my first client, who still remains a client to this day.

2. What do you think is the key to a successful interior design? And in your business in general? 

As with any industry, success always has to begin with hard work and dedication. To run your own business successfully, you have to really give it your all — which should be easy if it’s your passion. For interior design specifically, it’s really important to develop the kind of relationship with your clients that allows you to bring their thoughts and ideas to life in a way they never could have imagined. It’s about listening to what they’re saying, but also what they’re not — digging deep and noticing unexpected details that can blossom into a beautiful creative partnership.

3. How do you start your interior design projects? Do you usually start with a certain element of design or a keyword? And how do they develop?

I always approach my projects from the outside in. It’s important to always think about where the project is in the world and how its surroundings might inform the design, considering environmental details like how the sky looks or what kinds of trees or soil might surround the space. We then approach the bones of the space, thinking about how floors, walls, and molding establish a certain point of view. Once we cultivate that strong foundation, then we move into elements like color, texture, and materiality.

I would love to do something in Paris!

5. What was one of the hardest learned lessons in your career?

A hard lesson I learned was just how important it is to make sure you develop solid contracts, establishing a level of protection for yourself and your clients. 

6. You do many luxury residential projects and work with a globally renowned clientele. How has it been working with Usher? What has been one of the most inspiring aspects of working with him?

It’s been nothing short of a dream. Not only is he one of my best friends, but he’s such a talented creative in so many ways that I feel so constantly inspired by him. He has such a great eye, and our collaborative relationship always feels like perfect creative harmony. It’s been such a joy to grow and build so much together.

7. You have a very distinct and timeless style that can be traced in each of your projects. Do you have a mantra that encapsulates your taste?

My mantra is really that my clients are my muse, and there are no rules. I’m always approaching each new project as a new beginning, a new adventure where I can create something extremely bespoke and curated. 

8. What is your favorite space in a home? And what room do you think has the potential to make a difference in the entire home?

The kitchen. No matter how big the home is, everyone always gravitates toward the kitchen.

9. What would be your advice to beginner interior designers?

Be intentional about training your eye. School is great, but on top of those technical skills you you have to work to develop your own personal vision and taste. Get out into the world and experience something new, dive into different showrooms, learn what you connect with. Be curious about visiting new museums, going to art openings, anything to help you figure out what resonates with you.

10. Is there a design object you couldn’t live without?

Books and ceramics.

11. What are your favorite pieces from the Philia Collection?

12. Finally, what are your upcoming projects? Anything you’d like to share or add to the interview?

We’re working on a number of exciting projects in Cabo, Tribeca, and the Hidden Hills just to name a few.