Meet Gabrielle Chambers, Norwegian Wood Design Challenge Winner

In this latest design challenge with Norwegian Wood, we challenged members to design an eclectic bedroom using one of their leather headboards. Needless to say, Gabrielle Chambers nailed the assignment. If you take a peek at her interior design portfolio, you'll be hit with a punch of grade-A color, patterns, and texture — her signature for all of her designs. It's no wonder she came in first place for this challenge!

Below, we chat with her about her passion for design, vision for this challenge, and what she's enjoying these days.

Hi, Gabrielle! Please introduce yourself.

Hi! I'm Gabrielle, a certified interior designer based in New York City who just graduated from the New Institute of Art and Design. I'm a mom and wife of two beautiful kids. I enjoy traveling, listening to music, spending time with family, and eating delicious foods. I have a passion for helping clients design homes that speak to their souls. I love mixing textures and patterns together to create bold, beautiful, unique spaces. 

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What 3 emojis would you use to describe yourself?

💃🏾😎👑

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What was the vision for your winning design in this challenge?

I was obsessed with how rich and warm Norwegian Wood’s Cognac Brown Distressed Leather Headboard was so I just couldn't resist designing a space showcasing its beauty. I wanted to create a unique and unexpected color combination for the space that feels fresh and feminine. I decided to add a pop of blush pink, terracotta, brown, and black which felt like the perfect color palette. If I had to think of three words that best describe this bedroom, it would be chic, modern, and moody.

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What does your relationship with design look like?

I grew up as a young girl watching my mom decorate our small two-bedroom apartment in the Bronx with unique vintage furniture pieces from thrift stores. I was always fascinated by all the beautiful furniture and decor pieces at the thrift stores, and I traveled to many around the city, which always felt like an adventure. When I look back and fully understand why my mom admired vintage pieces, it was because she wanted her space to feel unique and personal to her taste. I immediately developed a passion for design and understood the power of creating a space that truly represents who you are. Growing up I didn't see a career path in interior design because most of the careers you get taught are to be a nurse, doctor, teacher, etc. I decided to work in the healthcare field, but I never lost my interest in design. After the pandemic, I decided to take a risk and follow my passion. I started my own small interior design business named Chambers Interior Design Studio, allowing clients to receive virtual interior design services. I believe when you are doing something that you love it will never feel like a job but an infinity of joy and happiness.

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What’s your most prized possession at home?

My family photos. They are more than just photos, they are a moment in time that I'll treasure forever.

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What do you do on your time off to recharge creatively?

I enjoy sourcing artwork online. Artwork always inspires new ideas, feelings, and visions for my upcoming projects. I honestly believe that artwork is the cure for designer's block. 

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What is something you are looking forward to?

This fall season taking nature walks in Central Park; it comes alive with the perfect blend of colors for fall. The orange, red, and gold leaves created by nature are the most beautiful things.