Christina Nielsen’s Jewel Box Interiors

Based in New York City and London, Christina Nielsen worked at Vogue and studied at Sotheby’s before opening her eponymous firm. Her interiors draw on vintage pieces, balanced palettes, and layered textures to create a collected feel. Here, she shares what’s currently inspiring her along with a few Chairish favorites.

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What made you passionate about interior design? How’d you get your start?

I have been drawn to interior design for as long as I can remember—I was ripping out pages of Architectural Digest and creating mood boards when most children were outside playing! My mother is a frustrated decorator and always created the most beautiful homes. She was my first foray into design and its impact on one’s life. We used to spend weekends re-arranging furniture, including hotel rooms, and still do… I grew up spending a lot of time in England, which has probably had the biggest influence on me—its layered, effortless rooms have always struck me. I would move back there in a second if I could.

What do you find most compelling about Chairish?

The accessibility that Chairish provides us to dealers around the world.  The Chairish app is quite addictive—it seems my favorites folder gets bigger each week, but it’s especially helpful for projects with shorter lead times and not necessarily in local proximity. I also appreciate that Chairish has established an opportunity for those who love design, but are not in the trade or do not have a decorator, to source unique pieces for their home at a range of price points.  

How does sustainability factor into your design choices and love of vintage?

Vintage pieces hold history, and with that, a unique story to tell.  I always find it’s the quirky and imperfect pieces that make up a home. I love making relationships with antique dealers, and it is important to me that I support these vendors as it’s a dying industry; you never know when your favorite shop may close. Mine is Guinevere in London—I’ve been going there since I was a kid. They just shut for good, and I made sure to purchase a keepsake before it was too late!

 What are three of your favorite pieces on Chairish now?

1. Large spherical mercury lamps.

2. A Soane Wicker Pendant by David Netto that has always been on the wishlist.

3. A Rattan Daybed for Bonacina.

Favorite way to create a statement-making moment in a room?

A statement-making moment is in the details. I love to incorporate an antique case piece, a grounding rug, a great work of art, and beautiful lighting. Fabrics and wallpaper make a big statement, but a room truly comes alive with the accents that are built over time. Objects that are sentimental to my clients are typically the biggest conversation pieces.

Do you have any go-to color palettes and color combos? 

I love jewel tones, these really warm up a space and add character to a room. My favorite color is “Pelt” by Farrow & Ball. The palette really depends on the project and vision, but my favorite color combination would be a mossy green with a rich aubergine.

What advice do you have for first-time clients to make their space truly personal?

Understand how you want to live in your space. I want my clients to come home each day feeling like their space is truly theirs. That is the most important part, before any of the decorating begins. 

Lead Image: Interior Design by Christina Nielsen | Photography by William Waldron.