Lucy Goldbart, our Next in Design 2025 winner, opened her own studio in 2022, bringing with her extensive experience from two of London's most esteemed design firms. She kickstarted her career at Fiona Barratt Interiors, where she mastered the importance of pushing design limits and inspiring clients to embrace creativity.

As a senior designer at Elicyon, she honed her project management abilities. 'It operates like a finely tuned machine,' she notes about founder Charu Gandhi's firm. 'I acquired invaluable skills in organization and managing extensive projects.'

A side-by-side composition. On the left, a portrait of designer Lucy Goldbart standing in a stylish interior. On the right, a vertical view of a luxury living room featuring soaring ceilings with a woven texture, a large central art piece, and sculptural furniture in soft cream and bold teal tones.

This solid foundation proved beneficial when she received her first solo commission: a private island property in Antigua, inspired by the volcanic rock and limestone surroundings. Since then, every project has come through referrals, ranging from a stunning apartment in Little Venice to an inviting family home in Miami.

Goldbart describes her aesthetic as 'effortless California cool,' blending warm, earthy minimalism with striking, sculptural elements. She prioritizes natural materials in her designs, often choosing sunset-inspired hues like ochres, caramels, and olive greens to craft spaces that feel cozy, inviting, and a touch like a vacation.

5 Essential Design Principles from Lucy Goldbart

1. Curate Your Color Scheme
Incorporating natural, tactile textures over a warm, earthy base adds depth and richness to any room. A home should invite you to explore every surface, creating an atmosphere where you can comfortably relax.

2. Embrace Shapes and Forms
Oversized furniture pieces bring a sense of stylish drama to a space. Don't hesitate to have fun with your selections.

3. Favor Wooden Details
Choose wooden accents over metals whenever possible. Carved wooden handles are a favorite, as walnut offers a relaxed warmth compared to more formal bronze.

4. Ditch Harsh Spotlights
Opt for beautiful ambient lighting instead. Softly illuminating your home with flush-mounted or directional fixtures creates warmth and a cozy mood, especially on textured walls.

5. Collect Meaningful Items
Gather pieces during your travels and only invest in what you truly cherish. If something resonates with you, it'll find its place in your home. I love adding vintage accessories and furniture for a more authentic character.