In this installment of Designer Stories, we sit down with Lauren Williams—the founder and principal of Studio Solenne, a Brooklyn-based creative studio focused on interior design, styling, and art curation. Lauren spent a decade working in womenswear design at various companies, including Elie Tahari, Lingua Franca, and a private label based out of Hong Kong. She then pivoted to open her beloved home and lifestyle boutique Lolo in Cobble Hill, which transitioned into Studio Solenne. Lauren is the designer behind NuStory's Collected Paths Collection - a capsule of handcrafted rugs that transform travel mementos into bold, lasting design.⁠

As part of NuStory’s ongoing effort to celebrate and sustain the creative spirit of New York’s design community, we’re thrilled to spotlight Lauren’s process, perspective, and the passion she brings to her craft. 

How would you describe your design point of view? 

It always starts with personality and function. For a space to feel like home, it has to work for the people living in it—and reflect who they are. The first thing I ask any client is: What’s important to you? That might be a beloved piece of art, a hand-me-down table, or simply needing a room where the kids can play without it being destroyed. We design around that. Beauty comes later—but the bones must feel right.

There’s something really special about working closely with artists and makers to bring those personal elements into a space. As we move into this world where AI is everywhere, I think there’s going to be even more value placed on the human hand. Craftsmanship has soul—and that’s what makes a space truly memorable.

What originally sparked your love for design, and how has your perspective evolved over time? 

I grew up in a home that really valued how things worked. My dad’s a plumber, so he was very hands-on and made sure our house was super functional. My mom, on the other hand, made sure it also looked nice. That balance of utility and beauty ingrained in me early, and I’ve never really stopped thinking that way. 

Design is just a part of how I process the world. It’s everything I do, and it keeps evolving as I do. I think a lot now about how much brain space I want to give things—what feels meaningful to me and what talents I want to lean into. That has shifted over time, but the love for design has only deepened. 

When designing a space, how do you approach blending tradition and modernity? 

To me, tradition and modernity aren’t at odds—they can and should live together. Traditional craftsmanship is something you just can’t fake. It’s timeless, intimate, and incredibly grounding. Modern pieces, on the other hand, are often designed to fit the way we live today. So I like to put them in conversation with each other. Think: a sleek sofa set against ornate plaster molding. The contrast makes both elements shine—and the space feels layered, lived-in, and real. 

What role does craftsmanship play in the projects you take on or the pieces you source? 

Craftsmanship is what gives a piece longevity—not just in terms of durability, but in emotional value. Things made with heart and by hand age beautifully. I love an old marble table that’s been dinged up over time or a solid wood chair that shows its history. You can't replicate that kind of character. 

When something’s thinly veneered or mass-produced, it tends to fall apart—and then it ends up in the trash. But when a piece is made to last, you can repair it, keep it, pass it on. That’s the kind of work I want to support and bring into my projects. 

You mentioned you love working with artists and makers. How do you find those connections? 

A lot of it has come naturally from being in the field and staying open to conversations. Makers tend to know other makers, and when you show genuine appreciation for their work, they want to introduce you to others who share the same ethos. 

Some of the best pieces I’ve used have come from those connections—vases, books, small-run ceramics. These are the objects that tell a story, that make the space feel truly personal. Artists can tell when you're looking for something real, something to live with—not just for show. That mutual respect creates the best kind of collaboration. 

How does New York influence your design perspective? 

Living in New York really makes you appreciate the functionality of design. Space is generally limited and lifestyle is very active. Most of the time, clients are asking me to help make their space function for their active family. Layouts often come first because of this, and then the pretty stuff. 

When selecting a rug for a space, what do you look for first? 

It depends on the room and the client, but generally, I want a rug to ground the space, provide texture, and age well over time. I’m drawn to materials and construction that will hold up—not just visually, but physically. I love the Portia Rug from NuStory. The carved detailing in the art-deco pattern makes it such a playful piece, while maintaining neutrality and plenty of space to further decorate.  

What excites you most about the design world right now? 

There’s this rising appreciation for work that’s imperfect, tactile, and deeply personal. As technology gets louder, people are craving spaces that feel grounded, handmade, and human. I think we’re going to see a continued shift away from disposable design—and that’s something I’m really excited to be part of. 

About Designer Stories 

Designer Stories is an ongoing editorial series by NuStory that spotlights the creative leaders in the home industry. Through candid conversations and behind-the-scenes insights, we celebrate designers whose work is defined by creativity, craft, and character.

By amplifying these voices, NuStory aims to sustain and support the vibrant NYC design community—offering a platform for connection, inspiration, and shared growth. These stories not only honor the individuals behind the work, but also deepen our commitment to a more thoughtful, collaborative, and craft-driven design culture.