Show Notes
“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
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