The Designer’s Journal: Layered Living Done Right with Nicole Lanteri Design

For Nicole Lanteri, founder of Nicole Lanteri Design, great design is equal parts joy and intention. Known for her eclectic, bespoke, and playful approach, Nicole sees every space as a layered expression of how her clients live, and how they want to feel in their homes.

From personality-filled powder rooms to a New York Times–featured home in Arlington, VA (her own!) Nicole's recent work showcases her talent for mixing high and low, creating bold moments, and designing spaces that feel as good as they look. We caught up with Nicole to hear more about her design ethos, her go-to statement pieces, and how a well-placed rug or a colorful clock can make all the difference.

Describe your design style in three words.

Eclectic, bespoke, and playful.

What is your design ethos?

I think of a house or a project in layers, and always like to mix high with low. I believe you don't have to love each piece, but you do have to love how it all comes together. In terms of approach, I like to consider the spaces that a client is already living in and how they’re doing it, then adding practical and fun enhancements to it.

What does your home say about you?

Unique, personal, inviting. I believe a home should reflect how you want to live—entertaining in your dining room, cooking in your kitchen—by picking the pieces that make that "dream life" become a reality. It should also reflect your favorite colors, colors you look and feel good in, and it shouldn't just reflect what you "think you should have.”

What’s your favorite way to create a statement-making moment in a room?

An easy win and a wow moment can be found in a wonderful rug, or one quirky piece of furniture.

What’s your favorite Schoolhouse product?

I do really love the Schoolhouse Electric Clock—it's a fun large piece that can go anywhere, is obviously functional, and a great way to integrate color!

Can you share a fun fact about a recent project?

The Jackson St project is actually my own home! It was featured in The New York Times. We got the bedding for both the primary and guest bedrooms at the Schoolhouse shop in Pittsburgh a long time ago, which felt very exciting!