Kevin Gray Interiors | European Influence. Timeless Interiors. Eclectic Refinement.

Meet Kevin Gray

Interior and lighting designer Kevin Gray is known for creating timeless, eclectic interiors that blend European sophistication with modern refinement. Based in Miami and working internationally, his portfolio spans private residences, luxury retail environments, and collectible lighting design. A graduate of Parsons School of Design in New York and Paris, Kevin’s work reflects decades of global influence and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, proportion, and architectural integrity.

We sat down with Kevin to discuss his global design journey, signature philosophy, and the timeless principles that guide his work.

GETTING STARTED IN DESIGN

Where are you from? San Antonio, Texas – I moved to Europe in 1977. I was based in Paris and worked in Hamburg, Germany, Milan, Italy, and Zurich, Switzerland.

Has your cultural background or personal upbringing influenced your design approach—and if so, how? 1000%. If I hadn’t lived and worked in those capitals of Europe and traveled to the museums, the palaces, and all of the fabric shops and stores, I wouldn’t have the knowledge that I have today.

How did you get started in design? I first went to Parsons School of Design in New York and then transferred to Paris, where I graduated. I worked in Paris and then as an assistant in a New York–Hamburg based firm, Peter Preller, where I learned a lot. I also worked with the Lancaster Group in both Germany and the United States.

What first sparked your love of design? I first attended the University of Texas in the landscape division — that was my first major. Then I switched to interior design because that’s really where my heart was.

If you weren’t an interior designer, what would you be doing instead? I would probably be in the fashion business.

Do you have a design mentor, inspiration or idol, and if so – who and why? Frank Lloyd Wright. I was blown away by Fallingwater and the architecture that he created. Later, mid-century architecture in Palm Springs and California, and European architecture, inspired me deeply.

What’s one project or accomplishment you’re especially proud of? The penthouse I did for Wolfgang Joop, who was considered the Calvin Klein of Germany. I designed his penthouse in Sutton Place over 30 years ago, and it has truly stood the test of time with its mix of European furnishings.

SIGNATURE STYLE & PHILOSOPHY

How would you describe your signature style in three words? Eclectic. Timeless. Colorful.

What’s the one design rule you always follow? I design with my gut and with what I believe is right, and then I explain to my clients what I think they should do.

What design rule do you love to break? I break the rule of keeping everything in one style. I like to mix styles together.

How do you make a home feel both beautiful and livable? I create the right envelope of wall surfaces first. Then the furniture should be laid out in a classic way so it can always stay where it is. If you need to update the space, you change pillows or accessories — but the footprint should stay the same forever.

What color or material are you obsessed with right now? Oranges and reds used as accent colors.

What’s your favorite room in a home to transform, and why? The living room, because that is the soul of the house. That’s where everything takes place, and it should be comfortable and livable.

If budget weren’t a factor, what is the one room or piece you like to splurge on? Pillows. It’s one yard — if it costs $1,000, it’s still just one yard — and it can completely transform a room.

What is one lesson you learned from a difficult project? Not trusting my gut and working with someone who was complicated.

DESIGN ADVICE FOR HOMEOWNERS

What’s one small change homeowners can make that delivers the biggest impact? Reupholstery and accent pillows — this can freshen and change a room.

What’s a timeless design element you always recommend, regardless of trends? Coffee tables should be iconic and timeless.

What’s your go-to strategy for making a small room feel larger? An accent wall of color or wallpaper that gives depth to the room.

What’s one thing every homeowner should do before starting a design or renovation project? Listen to their designer and review all choices and qualities before making a decision.

GET TO KNOW YOU — PROFESSIONALLY

Favorite city or destination for design inspiration? Milano.
Favorite design era or decade? The period of Florence Knoll when she created for Knoll Corporation.
Favorite flooring choice? A man-made sandstone — durable.
Most overused design trend? Pattern fabrics.
First thing you notice when you walk into a room? The flow and the quality.
Luxury is… A necessity to have in your home, whether simple or sophisticated.

GET TO KNOW YOU — PERSONALLY

One piece in your own home that makes you happiest right now? My Venetian wall sconces.
One thing you can’t live without in a space? One of my lamps I designed in the 80s.
Design pet peeve? Competition.
Are you more minimalist or maximalist at heart? Minimalist at heart.
Early-morning design sessions or late-night creative bursts? Early-morning design sessions.
Playlist vibe while working? Silence.
What inspires you outside of design? Flea markets in Paris.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be doing? Be in the fashion business.
Your go-to reset after a long project? Spending a day in the client’s home once it’s completed, having a glass of wine and soaking it all in.
Coffee, tea, wine, champagne, or tequila when in design mode? German beer.

Kevin Gray Design
Kevin Gray, Founder & Creative Designer
kevingraydesign.com
[email protected]