Francesca Grace is the creative force and visionary behind her eponymous LA-based design firm. Her fashion-forward aesthetic blends effortlessly chic California style with whimsical prints, bold colors, vintage finds and maximalist design. Francesca is one of the most coveted designers in Los Angeles, and her clients have included Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, Hilary Duff, Ingrid Michaelson and more. As part of the next generation of home stagers and designers, Francesca’s knowledge of color, form and texture goes beyond the traditional scope and is reflected in her masterful ability to reinvent living spaces every day. See Francesca’s designs in today’s Designer Friday.
A collector’s dream, this space blurs the line between dining and gallery with statement chairs that double as art and a backdrop that speaks to a deep appreciation for expressive form.
Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Francesca Grace: Becoming a designer was a natural evolution for me. Growing up surrounded by hospitality and real estate, I developed an early appreciation for how spaces influence people. After staging for another company, I noticed a gap in the market for bold, personality-driven designs. That’s when I decided to launch my own business during Covid. It’s been a journey of learning how to blend creativity with strategy, curate unique pieces and build a brand that stands out.
AJ: What is your favorite type of furniture to design?
FG: I love creating vintage-inspired pieces with a modern twist — designs that feel like they have a history but still work seamlessly in contemporary spaces. I’m drawn to statement pieces — whether it’s a sculptural sofa or an antique-inspired cabinet reimagined with unexpected textures. Blending eras and creating furniture that feels timeless yet fresh is always exciting.
AJ: What is your favorite design trend currently?
FG: I’m loving the return of rich, moody tones and bold, eclectic layering. It’s refreshing to see spaces that feel personal and collected, rather than overly curated. Mixing vintage pieces with unexpected textures — think velvet next to raw wood or a striking antique alongside something modern — gives spaces a lived-in, soulful and slightly rebellious feel.
A masterclass in tonal layering and pattern play, this dining room pairs sculptural seating with saturated walls and a commanding floral moment.
AJ: What is your favorite design element to incorporate into your projects?
FG: Color is my go-to element. I enjoy using bold, unexpected hues to inject personality into a space. Whether it’s a jewel-toned sofa, playful wallpaper or a curated mix of patterns, color has the power to transform a room. I aim to create depth by balancing tones and textures while ensuring the space still feels inviting and livable.
AJ: Can you describe your design philosophy in three words?
FG: Eclectic, personalized, timeless.
I design spaces that are uniquely tailored to each client, blending diverse influences while ensuring the result is relevant for years to come. Every decision — whether it’s a custom piece or a bold color choice — is made to reflect individuality, creating spaces that feel fresh and enduring.
AJ: What design trends do you think will be popular in the coming years?
FG: I see a continued shift toward more personalized, eclectic spaces. People are moving away from minimalist, neutral tones in favor of bold colors, rich textures and custom pieces that reflect their personalities. Sustainability will also be key — think vintage finds, upcycled materials and eco-conscious choices. Maximalism is coming back, where layering patterns, textures and colors creates dynamic, lively environments.
A study in refined contrast, this space balances sculptural modernism with timeworn character, resulting in a room that feels both grounded and quietly daring.
AJ: What is your favorite aspect of your job?
FG: The best part of my job is transforming a blank space into something uniquely personal for my clients. Watching a design come to life, especially when it reflects the people who will inhabit it, is so rewarding. Each project is different, which lets me experiment, challenge myself creatively, and push design boundaries.
AJ: What is your favorite design era and why?
FG: I’m drawn to the Victorian era for its intricate details, opulent mix of colors, and textures. The dramatic contrasts and ornate furnishings are so inspiring. I especially love the playful use of fringe, which adds movement and texture — something I love incorporating into modern pieces, like my custom fringed footboards. It’s that balance of history and contemporary flair that speaks to me.
AJ: What’s your design pet peeve?
FG: I can’t stand spaces that feel too perfect or polished — like they’ve lost their character. It’s crucial to me that every room tells a story and feels personal. When everything matches too much, it can feel lifeless. I enjoy mixing textures, colors and eras to create spaces that feel real, vibrant and lived-in, not just photo-ready.
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