Gachot
GACHOT is a New York–based design studio and development consultancy led by principals Christine Gachot and John Gachot. Working across hospitality, residential, branding, and real estate development, the studio is recognized for creating refined, highly contextual interiors that balance modern sensibility with warmth and livable comfort.
Over the past several years, GACHOT has developed a diverse portfolio including projects such as the Pendry Manhattan West, Shinola Hotel, 67 Vestry Residences in Tribeca, Pebble Bar, and Jac’s On Bond, alongside numerous private residences.
Prior to founding the studio, Christine Gachot served as Vice President of Design Development at André Balazs Properties, where she led the development of notable hospitality and residential projects, including The Standard, High Line, and Chiltern Firehouse. Earlier in her career, she spent a decade at Studio Sofield working on luxury commercial and residential projects.
“Be curious always!”
INTERVIEW
Be curious always! Travel, read, and engage. You never know where or how the next inspiration will percolate.
Ask questions, look, and LISTEN – there is always something to be learned! For those starting their own firms, hire a talented financial advisor, and always remember that you are not just a designer, you’re a business.
My design career really started at Studio Sofield. I had been with Bill at AERO, too, but I was fortunate enough to continue working for him for 10 years. I worked at reception, I worked as Bill’s assistant, I worked on events – I had the opportunity to do it all and be surrounded by the best! Bill was the person who encouraged me to commit to pursuing design – so I did, and here we are!
The talented people in the community that I’ve had the great fortune of working for and with have all been defining. Working in design, development, branding, and marketing/PR with Bill, of course, Andre Balazs, John, and the talented teams along the way.
We truly enjoy all our projects for different reasons (not a bad gig to have!). We always try to keep our portfolio diverse. The crossover of ideas from hospitality to residential and everything in between keeps all of us thinking creatively.
Collaboration always! We really enjoy being a part of the larger conversation with the team – the clients, architects, lighting designers, landscapers, and artisans who are all instrumental in the creation of a successful project. We are just one small part.
I feel very responsible for my team – the health of the company directly affects them. That’s usually what keeps me up at night and keeps me focused during the day.
Bringing a sense of home into hospitality and a sense of hospitality into the home.
Everyone knows I love a hotel project! Again, I think it goes back to being involved in that larger conversation with clients, developers, and operators. I love hearing what everyone has to say.
It’s never typical when you run a company. Each day is truly unique, and that’s what makes my job so special. My role specifically is very broad. I get to have my hands in every aspect of the studio, including finance, design, PR, branding – I really get to do it all. The pace is fast! I’m quick and able to juggle a lot, and those close to me do the same.
Every project is different and requires a different design intention. We try to be authentic to the “assignment” and good editors to the process.
Bill Sofield, Axel Vervoodt, Ilse Crawford, Roman and Williams. John, of course, is my go-to!
The New York Antiquarian Book Fair. We love scouring through and finding rare design books, including the recent discovery of a phenomenally rare book of Japanese prints. The book triggered a flood of creative ideas for color and forms – inspiration for everything from fabrics to murals to rugs.
Thank you so much Christine, for this lovely interview!
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