Here, we ask designers to take a selfie and give us an inside look at their life.
Bio: John and Christine Gachot, Founders and Principals of Gachot
Hometown: Westbury and Saratoga Springs, New York
Studio Location: Soho, New York City
Describe what you make: Gachot creates thoughtful, studied spaces with service at their core. Each project begins with a wide lens, developing a conceptual narrative that weaves through the design and informs every detail, ensuring a cohesive, fully realized identity. Blending hospitality, residential, and all the moments that live in between.
The most important thing you’ve designed to date: Every project is important, and each one is special for different reasons. Sometimes it’s the client you instantly click with. Other times, it’s the internal team—fun, passionate, and full of energy that gets us excited. Then there are the ‘pinch me’ moments, like designing the Met Opera Patron’s Lounge or working with unforgettable collaborators. Amazingly, this is our job. We’re deeply grateful to do what we love for a living.
Describe the problem your work solves: Gachot’s experience in varied disciplines allows us to work through projects spanning from branding and conceptual design, to architectural fruition. We craft visual identities and cohesive environments where design and function are held in equal regard. History and experience help, that’s for sure.
Describe the project you are working on now: We’re in the midst of installing a spectacular Miami home—bright, modern, and perched right on the water. It’s contemporary with a twist, and the art collection? The clients have impeccable taste!
A new or forthcoming project we should know about: Christine is writing a book on gift-giving and the thoughtfulness behind it—an essential part of how she lives, both personally and professionally. Keep an eye out in the second half of 2026.
Finot, John’s second collaboration with Waterworks, will launch in Spring 2026!
What you absolutely have to have in your studio: We absolutely always have fresh flowers, carefully placed throughout desks and conference rooms. Lit candles are also a must! And of course music plays nearly constantly – every day, a different designer will be our DJ, and there are certainly a few favorites in the rotation!
Sources of creative envy (dead or alive):
CG: I’m always fangirling over Cate Holstein’s collections for Khaite. And Christopher Bollen is my Contemporary Lit crush. Read “A love letter to The Carlyle” in the FT’s How to Spend It In… Genius!
The distraction you want to eliminate: Gossip. If you would like to know something, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Concrete or marble? Board Form Concrete is a big topic right now for us!
High-Rise Or Townhouse? Classic 7
Remember Or Forget? Remember and let go!
Aliens Or Ghosts? We hope both.
Dark Or Light? Depends on the day, right?
