Laura Gonzalez’s interior designs are like living sets: you walk in and feel like you’re on a stage. They are extremely narrative spaces, almost like 3D fairy tales. “I believe my clients appreciate the way I blend classic elegance with unexpected, playful touches. They often look for spaces that are both sophisticated and inviting – places that tell a story and have a strong identity. My willingness to take risks with colors, patterns, and materials also resonates with those who want something truly unique. Ultimately, I think it’s the combination of passion, attention to detail, and the ability to listen to their desires that makes them choose me”, explains the Parisian interior designer who has worked on projects around the world with brands such as Cartier, Pierre Hermé, and Louboutin, as well as the New York headquarters of Printemps (opened last March). Her portfolio also includes hotels and private residences united by an exuberant style.
What kind of educational background do you have?
I studied architecture at the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture Paris-Malaquais. My education provided me with a strong foundation in architectural theory and technique, but I quickly realized that my passion leaned more towards interior design and the decorative arts. I started my career at a young age, which gave me the opportunity to learn directly from real-world projects and to cultivate my own style.
Installation at the Galerie Laura Gonzalez in Paris – Photo © Jérôme Galland
Junior suite, the Casa Monti hotel, Rome – Photo © Jérôme Galland
Your projects always seem to have an element of pure, irrational fun. What are the roots of your taste?
My approach to design comes from a desire to create spaces that feel alive and vibrant, almost like they have their own personality. I’ve always been drawn to eclecticism and the idea that different patterns, colors, and textures can coexist harmoniously. My roots lie in my passion for the arts, fashion, and travel. I’m constantly inspired by different cultures, classical architecture, and even unexpected pairings in nature. It’s about bringing a sense of joy and spontaneity into my work while ensuring the result feels balanced and purposeful. Whether I’m working on a public space or a private residence, my goal is to create an environment that tells a story and resonates with its inhabitants or visitors. The approach remains fundamentally similar: I focus on layering textures, patterns, and materials to create depth and warmth. However, residential projects require a more intimate dialogue with the client. It’s about capturing their personality and lifestyle while infusing it with my signature aesthetic. In public spaces, I tend to think about the flow of movement and the impact on a larger audience.
The Salon Vert bistro, Printemps, New York – Photo © Gieves Anderson
Your first major work was on a nightclub. How did that adventure come about?
I was just 24 when I worked on Le Bus Palladium. It was an exciting opportunity that came early in my career. The project was a turning point, allowing me to express a sense of creativity and boldness that shaped my subsequent work. I wanted to keep the soul of the iconic place while giving it a fresh, unexpected twist. The project’s success opened many doors and marked the beginning of my professional journey.
What aspect of your job do you like the most?
My favorite phase when working on a project is definitely the conceptual one – when ideas are still fluid, and creativity flows freely. It’s when I sketch and imagine without constraints, allowing my instincts to guide the process. It’s both liberating and exhilarating.
You founded your studio in 2008. Many things have changed since then – has your way of working also changed?
Yes, I founded my studio in 2008, and it’s grown significantly since then. Today, I have a wonderful team of over 40 talented individuals who bring diverse perspectives and skills to our projects. My way of working has evolved in that I now place a greater emphasis on collaboration. I still maintain a hands-on approach, but I’ve learned the value of trusting my team and allowing them to take ownership of parts of the process. This collective creativity enriches our work.
Red Room, Printemps, New York – Photo © Gieves Anderson
What is the project that you enjoyed making the most?
It’s hard to choose just one, but I have to say the Printemps New York project holds a special place in my heart. It was a remarkable challenge, as it involved bringing a piece of Parisian elegance and heritage to the vibrant, dynamic atmosphere of New York City. The goal was to capture the iconic identity of Printemps while making it resonate with the cosmopolitan spirit of New York. I played with contrasting elements – classic French architecture interwoven with bold, modern touches, luxurious materials paired with unexpected textures. The space needed to feel grand yet intimate, refined yet approachable. One of the highlights was designing the grand staircase – a central, sculptural element that symbolizes the journey between cultures and eras. We used intricate wrought iron patterns reminiscent of Haussmannian buildings, juxtaposed with sleek, contemporary finishes. The project allowed me to push creative boundaries while staying respectful of Printemps’ heritage. Seeing how the space came to life, blending old-world charm with urban sophistication, was truly rewarding. It’s one of those projects that encapsulates my passion for mixing styles, creating unexpected harmony, and crafting spaces that tell a story.
What is modern to you?
To me, modernity is less about a specific aesthetic and more about an attitude. It’s about being relevant, functional, and timeless while daring to break conventional boundaries. A modern piece or space should feel rooted in the present but not tied to fleeting trends. It should have character, a sense of authenticity, and a bit of boldness.
