In Profile:
Shelley Cekirge Interiors

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future.

Shelley believes that every project begins with three key considerations: the architecture of the space, the functionality of the space, and the aesthetics that resonate with both our team and our clients. By collaborating closely with you, we aim to craft elevated, livable spaces that transform your house into a true home.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?

Go with your gut! The more you over-think things the more likely you are to end up degrading the overall design. If something does not feel right – leave that and move on to something new. If a furniture layout just seems like it works – trust that it will.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

The International Design & Architecture Awards are crucial because they establish global benchmarks for excellence, elevate professional credibility, and provide vital platforms for both established firms and emerging talent to gain international exposure. These awards are voted on by individuals in the design industry and being shortlisted and winning is a huge honor.

What projects are you currently working on?

I am currently working on a gut renovation of a new apartment in a building going up on the Upper West Side in Manhattan. It is the entire penthouse floor but the family who bought it wants to live there in comfort and style. We are making it an expansive, and elevated space with a premium on relaxation and taking in the priceless views.
I am also finishing up a few apartments restorations on Park Avenue and beginning work on an estate in Hudson Valley.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

I worked on an incredible home that was new construction and the project was my baby. For years I lived, breathed, and thought about this house we were building together. The clients trusted me implicitly and I was able to bring them unique ideas, creative style choices, and one of a kind furniture and artwork. It was so rewarding to see the thoughts in my head brought to reality and to see how amazing it feels to watch your vision come to life.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?

Each project presents different challenges. In general, indecision is a creativity killer!

Which products/services could you not live without when designing? E.g. Lighting companies, furniture companies

Holly Hunt, Weitzner, Artistic Tile, Waterworks, Ochre, SkLo, Roche Bobois, la Cornue, Farrow and Ball, Bernhardt, Visual Comfort, deGournay, Stark, The Rug Company, Jab, Romo, Roll & Hill, Krasnogorov Studio, Reflectel Mirror TV, Contessa Gallery, Artistic Frame… I could go on forever…

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?

I would love to continue taking on clients who are open to working with me to make creative, intimate, luxurious spaces. Clients who understand the design process and value the results.

Your most treasured possession?

I have a locket that my Grandfather gave to my Grandmother before World War II. I have each of their photos in it and I wear it all the time.

Your favourite holiday destination?

Aspen! The St. Regis in Aspen is just the best during the holidays. A little skiing, a little egg nog, a lot of snow. Cloud 9 up at the top of Highlands there is also so much fun! A winter wonderland through and through!

Hotel: le Crillon in Paris is a very special place.
Restaurant: It use to be the Four Seasons in New York. I absolutely loved the pool and the metal curtains. So chic. So terrible it closed! I love BG at Bergdorf in New York and also Armani/Ristorante. Totally different vibes but good for totally different occasions!
Bar: Le Bar Penelope in NYC – very very fun!

Your favourite book, film & song?

Book: The Diner, by Herman Koch. Incredible Book.
Film: Heather’s. There is no one cooler than Winona Rider and Christian Slater in that movie. I wanted to be Veronica.
Song: To many to choose…. depends on the mood of the moment.

Your favourite food and drink?

Food: BLT extra crispy bacon
Drink: Grey Goose Martini a little dirty with extra olives.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?

Walking around NYC – meeting a friend at the reservoir at Central Park, having lunch in SOHO, then drinks and a show – chatting all the time!

If you weren’t in this sector, what would your alternative profession be?

Actor. As a child I found a creative outlet in acting. I loved the stage and felt completely liberated when I lost myself in a character. It was an out of body experience. Incredibly rewarding.
As I got older I began to focus more on the external forces on stage. How lighting, set, and sound affected the mood of a scene or a character. This morphed into an interest in visual presentation and, eventually, a focus on interior design.

Anything else interesting?

When I was young I did not know interior design was a profession but I was always obsessed with the spaces I inhabited. I once painted my entire bedroom 3 times in 4 days because I did not find the shade of green to be quite perfect. Then I sponge painted over it in lilac purple.