Designer Spotlight: French & French Interiors — Eclectic Soul Meets Functional Beauty at Kips Bay Dallas
At this year’s Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas, one design firm captivated us with a mix of artful elegance and down-to-earth charm: French & French Interiors from Santa Fe, New Mexico. Heather and Matt French may not hail from the traditional South, but their soulful, thoughtful approach to design has earned them a prominent place in our hearts—and in the design world at large. Known for their immersive and eclectic style, French & French Interiors brings an aesthetic that transcends geography, grounding each space with purpose and celebrating the human experiences within it.
The French & French Aesthetic: Where Old Meets New, and Style Meets Soul
French & French Interiors, led by the dynamic duo Heather and Matt French, has built a reputation for blending antiques, art, and modern pieces into a seamless tapestry that speaks to global influences and personal histories. Their approach isn’t about simply filling rooms with beautiful objects; it’s about creating spaces that solve real needs, reflect deeply held values, and foster connection. Whether in a residential home or a commercial space, French & French Interiors brings an intentional warmth that feels both modern and lived-in, a reflection of their signature aesthetic.
At Kips Bay Dallas, French & French showcased this style brilliantly. Their space was a curated blend of unexpected materials and bold patterns, inviting visitors to take a closer look and discover layers of detail. With heirloom antiques from international markets, vibrant textiles, and carefully selected modern pieces, their work feels like a conversation—a celebration of history meeting the present.
The Design Philosophy: Spaces with Purpose, Built for Real Life
French & French’s philosophy is refreshingly human-centric. Heather and Matt believe that “well-thought-out spaces should solve a problem and allow for shared human experiences on a deeper level.” This isn’t a style that shouts for attention but rather one that gently invites you in, making you feel at home. Every piece, every color choice, every detail is curated with an understanding of how design can influence mood, energy, and connection.
Their work isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it’s intentionally crafted to support the lifestyle and personalities of those who inhabit it. Whether designing for residential, hospitality, or commercial clients, Heather and Matt start with a collaborative, hands-on approach that draws out the desires and dreams of each client, transforming them into spaces that feel deeply personal and spiritually nourishing.
Heather and Matt French: A Design Partnership Rooted in Creativity and Curiosity
Heather French, principal interior designer and co-founder of French & French, brings a unique perspective to the design table. With a background in anthropology, she views each project as an opportunity to honor the cultural and historical significance of a space while adapting it to serve current needs. Heather’s love for florals, folk art, and all things nostalgic shines through in her designs, adding an element of whimsy and warmth.
Matt French, co-founder and director of business development, complements Heather’s vision with his background in construction and his love for hands-on creativity. His early influences—skateboarding, punk rock, and international folk art—add a touch of eclecticism to their projects. Matt’s big-picture thinking and respect for the design process make French & French spaces feel grounded and whole, while his knack for building things adds a layer of functionality that ensures each design feels as good as it looks.
French & French at Kips Bay Dallas: A Standout Moment
Though French & French are known for their work in New Mexico, their showcase at Kips Bay Dallas proves that their aesthetic translates beautifully across regions. The pairing of antique and modern, the unexpected pops of color, and the thoughtful layout created a space that was both striking and soul-soothing. Each detail reflected their signature approach—balancing form and function, beauty and purpose, and honoring a space’s history while imbuing it with new life.
For the Dallas show, Heather and Matt introduced rich textiles, custom furniture, and art pieces that felt as storied as they were fresh. Their space was a standout, proving that great design transcends borders. French & French brought their love for natural materials, folk-inspired patterns, and layered textures into a contemporary space that resonated with showgoers and design enthusiasts alike.
Why French & French Interiors Embodies The Southern Strategy
French & French Interiors reminds us that the essence of great design lies in its ability to evoke connection, history, and a sense of place. They may be from the Southwest, but their approach aligns perfectly with the values we celebrate in Southern design: warmth, character, and a reverence for heritage. Just as Southern style draws on tradition to inform the present, French & French brings layers of cultural influence and artistry into every project.
Heather and Matt’s work feels as at home in the Southwest as it does in Dallas, capturing the essence of a design philosophy that values people and their stories. French & French Interiors is more than just a design firm; it’s a creative partnership dedicated to helping people live beautifully and meaningfully.
Closing Thoughts
French & French Interiors has carved out a unique space in the design world, combining soulful, eclectic elements with a focus on function and lifestyle. Their work at Kips Bay Dallas highlighted the very best of their approach, reminding us that good design isn’t just about creating beauty—it’s about creating spaces that resonate with the people who inhabit them.
To explore more about French & French Interiors and see why we’re so inspired by their work, visit their website and dive into a world where eclecticism meets comfort, and every space tells a story. Heather and Matt French, we’re grateful for your artistry and for sharing a piece of your vision with us at Kips Bay Dallas.