Alexandra M. Alexandra M. | October 22, 2020 | Style,
“Good Design for me is all about placing things in a way where you feel good while also showcasing your true character and the things you’re drawn to,” -Gabby Luna
Just as the fashion industry is bold, largely trend-based, ever-changing, and more than anything else a form of creative expression, interior design is one and the same.
Interior design is an industry that pushes the boundaries of what one would imagine within the walls of a dwelling space. With designers such as Kelly Wearstler paving the way for women in the industry pairing bold print, fabric, color, tones, hues, and a mix of metals, young innovative minds like fashion model Gabby Luna are bracing the industry, eager to leave her mark.
Designers in Fashion and Interior Design have blended industries for years. Leading that overlap are brands such as James Perse, Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Hermes, and Rick Owens. They have all found success in creating a variety of collections in fashion, later transitioning attention to enhancing interior spaces. Now, Luna is following in the steps of her inspirators.
Last September, after spending over half a decade in New York City, Luna reflected on her time and pondered her future, and concluded it was time to shake things up. The Miami heat was calling her name, and after getting settled she was met with lockdowns and quarantine. Amidst the changes that came with the pandemic, Luna took this time to reflect on her career. Though she loves modeling, another industry had been flagging her interest.
“Whenever I worked on location, I always admired how the stylist would place items around the set to create a story,” Luna said. “Oftentimes, I found my creative side popping out to assist with the storytelling. Then, during quarantine, I kept with my habits and helped my friends remodel their places. I have always loved interior design, I just didn’t put much focus on it, because of modeling.”
With this newfound passion and knack for design, Luna has dedicated her time educating herself in the field by learning from established contractors and architects. She is always asking questions and prompting to exceed the limites. Luna is earning her place in the design market by pairing textiles with warm tones creating a sophisticated and inviting feel.
Though her great taste comes naturally, Luna has additionally built a foundation of knowledge over the past two years. The young entrepreneur has experienced Modernism Week, Estonia Arts, Art Basel, and Frieze Week further fueled her passion for design. Design has always been at the center of Luna’s life, always venturing to showrooms, vintage shops, and highly acclaimed furniture stores while traveling around the world. She feels her destined career is within the world of interior buildout and decoration.
Presently, Luna is the project manager and creative director of several housing developments. She is on-site nearly every week working alongside architects John Maienza and Gregg Wilson, configuring infrastructure, and design materials for the gutted spaces.
“I always make the bones of the house strong, something that could appeal to anyone,” Luna said. “High-quality infrastructure that is neutral or monochrome can speak for itself. The place without any decor should already be ‘wow.’”
Luna is an innovator who welcomes trendy inspiration, nevertheless preserving a timeless style. She believes home decor should outlast fleeting trends, and appeal more to the overall feel of the space considering the significant cost. Luna’s priority is the happiness of her clients and ensuring they walk into a home they feel most like themselves in.
Mid Century Modern, Transitional, Shabby Chic, Minimalistic, whatever the concept and style may be, she is determined to execute. For her latest project, a two-story home featuring a serene courtyard, Luna has proposed a minimalist framework converged with a rustic modern feel. Luna is working to embellish the open-spaced kitchen with customized Boffi installments. Her inspiration is driven by Amangiri and her love for natural stones. A perfect fit for the environment encompassing the space.
“I find it important to maintain the style based on location because it should fit with the history and the evolving story,” Luna said. “Now, yes, any style could go in any city, but truthfully you would not want to put sheepskin in Miami...leave that to Aspen.”
Luna styles homes that reflect individuality, and draw clients to well-crafted spaces from frame to fringe. She blends the gap between clothing and furniture to illuminate identity. Though relatively new to the industry, Luna is already making her mark.
Photography by: Photographer: Yelssing Espinoza
HMUA: Shani Gottlieb
Stylist: Maru Rion