37. Beyond Trends: Creating Timeless Design with Nelli Hegi

“Design doesn’t need to please everyone. Designers like McQueen, Schiaparelli, and Margiela showed me that discomfort, exaggeration, and vulnerability aren’t flaws—they’re tools.”

In this episode of Behind the Design, I talk with Nelli Hegi, founder and creative director of Hegi Design House, about creating furniture that’s more than functional, it tells a story. Nelli blends furniture, art, fashion, and architecture into bold pieces meant to spark emotion and conversation.

We explore her journey of finding her voice, why she stopped chasing validation, and the lessons haute couture taught her about creativity and risk.

As Nelli says, “Evolution isn't a lack of direction, it's part of finding your voice.”

What You learn in this episode:

→ Finding and trusting your creative voice

→ Drawing inspiration from fashion, art, and couture

→ Making furniture that’s emotional and story-driven

→ Balancing craft, collaboration, and sustainable business

→ Connecting with clients through storytelling

For anyone interested in expressive, personal design, this episode is full of insights on creating work that truly reflects who you are.

Follow Nelli Hegi: https://www.instagram.com/hegi_designhouse/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelli-hegi-67704765/

https://hegidesignhouse.com/

Follow Unfolded:

https://www.unfolded.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_

Chapters

02:00 – Signature Style vs Evolution

04:00 – Childhood & Personal Experiences

07:00 – Craftsmanship & Studio Life

10:00 – Haute Couture Inspiration

13:00 – Overcoming Self-Doubt & Industry Pressure

16:00 – Creating Emotional Connections Through Furniture

18:00 – Storytelling & Client Interaction

20:00 – Dreams, Inspiration & New Collections

Keywords

interior design podcast

furniture design inspiration

how to find your design style

creative confidence design

design career advice

how to get featured in design magazines

design storytelling

art vs commercial design

building a design brand

creative entrepreneurship

behind the design podcast

Camilla Ingall podcast

Nelli Hegi Authentic Design