Interior Design with Depth: My Philosophy in Practice: by Nate Cohen Ward

My design perspective is rooted in the belief that a home should feel collected, not decorated. I gravitate toward sculptural forms, layered textures, and soulful details that bring depth and character to a space. To me, luxury isn’t defined by price tags or trends — it’s about creating interiors that feel timeless, personal, and alive. Each project is an exploration of contrasts: refined and raw, bold and approachable, curated but never staged.

Design by Workstead. Photography via Domino (Kate McGregor feature).

When I design, I want spaces to feel alive — layered, soulful, and full of tension between refinement and warmth. In this kitchen by Workstead, featured in Domino, the island becomes a sculptural centerpiece. The cabinetry is finished in a deep aubergine with hand-turned oak pulls, grounded by a striking rojo marble countertop. Together, these choices embody Workstead’s guiding principles: context, functionality, craftsmanship, and materials that age gracefully. Even utilitarian cabinetry becomes a statement when it’s treated with this level of artistry and care.

Photography by Space Content Studio, via the book Her Eye (Terra Lannoo).

Luxury isn’t about cost — it’s about curation. This dining room, published in the design book Her Eye by Terra Lannoo, captures that balance beautifully. The high-gloss lacquered wall creates depth and drama, while a clean white pedestal table and pale green chairs add softness and approachability. Overhead, a sculptural pendant anchors the room with bold geometry, while the vibrant yellow floral arrangement keeps the space lively and human. It’s a reminder that true luxury emerges from contrast — polish paired with warmth, boldness paired with ease.

Design by Studio Vero. Photography via 1stDibs.

Art has the power to completely transform a space, giving it rhythm and personality. In this Notting Hill home by Studio Vero, the entryway is anchored by a bold geometric rug, a playful patterned lamp, and a striking piece of contemporary art. Together, these elements create a sense of movement and identity the moment you walk in the door. It’s proof that a hallway — often overlooked — can be as expressive and layered as any other room.

Each of these spaces illustrates the essence of my design philosophy: interiors that are collected, not decorated. The Workstead kitchen (Domino) reflects my belief in materials with soul, where aubergine cabinetry, oak pulls, and a rojo marble countertop come together to create depth and authenticity. The dining room from Her Eye demonstrates the power of contrast, where a high-gloss lacquer wall meets soft green chairs and vibrant florals, showing that true luxury emerges when polish and warmth coexist. And the Notting Hill hallway by Studio Vero reveals how art defines identity, with a geometric rug, playful lighting, and bold artwork transforming a transitional space into something layered and personal. Together, these examples underscore the perspective I bring to every project: sculptural, soulful interiors that balance refinement with authenticity, designed to feel alive, confident, and distinctly personal.

If you’re ready to explore what this philosophy could mean for your home, book a consultation here.

All The Love,

Nate