A sculptural blackened-steel fireplace, bold geometric art, and warm layered textures fill this room with contrast, where sleek modern lines meet an inviting, lived-in ease.
Andrew Joseph: How do you stay creative and inspired?
Candice Quinn: Creativity is a constant dialogue, an ongoing exchange between observation, experience, and imagination. I stay inspired by seeking the unfamiliar. New cities, unexpected textures, undiscovered palettes. Travel is essential; it breaks habits, challenges perspective, and injects energy into my work. As a designer who believes every project deserves its own point of view, I’m always searching for the unexpected — a detail, a feeling, a story that can be translated into a space that feels both deeply personal and undeniably bold.
AJ: Can you tell us about a specific moment in your career that made you feel accomplished?
CQ: Launching the flagship location of London Pierce Home was a major milestone. Equal parts thrilling and slightly terrifying (as all good things are). It’s a 10,000-square-foot playground of curated furniture, accessories, lighting, rugs… basically all the beautiful things I obsess over. Walking through the showroom still gives me that pinch-me feeling. It’s more than a space — it’s a living mood board, and honestly, my happy place.
A charcoal wingback headboard, sculpted wall paneling, and sunlit views come together to turn this simple bedroom into a quietly luxurious retreat.
AJ: How do you keep up with the latest design trends?
CQ: Trends are everywhere. We open Instagram, scroll Pinterest, walk the furniture markets, and it’s all there, loud and clear. I don’t believe in chasing trends just to stay relevant. I’d rather understand the why behind them and then ask, “How do we take this further?” For me, it’s about defining the style we’re after, not borrowing someone else’s. Sure, we’ll nod to what’s current as our clients often gravitate toward what’s new, but the goal is always to create something layered, intentional, and a little unexpected. Originality over imitation, every time.
AJ: How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your designs?
CQ: I joke about being “style over function,” but the truth is I’m a sucker for both. There’s nothing more satisfying than creating a space that looks incredible and actually works for the way someone lives. I get genuinely excited about clever storage solutions or finding an unexpected way to make a kitchen flow better. Beauty is essential, but function is what gives the space staying power. If it doesn’t make your life easier and look amazing while doing it, we’re not done yet.
The curved alcove and its smoky glass sconces in this bathroom create a gentle path of light that draws you toward the soaking tub, turning the whole space into a softly illuminated retreat.
AJ: What is your favorite thing about being a designer?
CQ: I’ve always known design was my path. There’s nothing like the thrill of creating and then watching the design take shape, layer by layer. Every project brings a new story, a new challenge, and that keeps it endlessly exciting. But honestly, the best part? The people. I love connecting with my clients, learning about what makes them feel good, and creating something that truly reflects their lives. I get to blend creativity, collaboration, and a little bit of magic — and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Photography by Shane Baker Studios.
Like what you see? Get it first with a subscription to aspire design and home magazine.