DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT - Coco Tully - Cote Interiors

What’s your favorite room to design and why?

Kitchens! They tap into both sides of my brain - puzzling together a logical layout mixed with so many materials to get creative with - it’s heaven! I also love cooking (I went to culinary school!) and entertaining, so kitchens will always have a soft spot in my heart. 

What's your favorite design trend at the moment?

I’m loving the use of natural materials and textures at the moment! It’s a hallmark of the coastal style we tend towards at Cote and something I’m seeing more and more in different aesthetics. I adore natural stone, textural timber and organic pigments - nothing quite compares to the works of art created by nature herself. 

One piece of advice for aspiring designers?

Find your people and keep them close! I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the amazing designers, mentors, and friends I’ve met along my interior design journey. I’m all about sharing knowledge, collaboration over competition, and celebrating each other as much as possible. This mentality has found me studios to work in, new projects, and some of my very best friends! 

What's your process for selecting hardware and fixtures for a project?

I like to think of the hardware and fixtures as the jewelry on our designs - they complete and elevate the outfit. 

While of course I consider the aesthetics - are we going more contemporary or more classic, more streamlined or more maximalist, etc - I also take into account the functionality. For example, it is important that we have an easy to grip handle on heavy drawers that are used often while a simple, small knob will suffice on a vanity cabinet. 

And I always look for excellent quality materials to stand the test of time, solid brass being my go to!