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One morning in New York, as soft sunlight streamed through the studio windows, Gyusu Lee arrived at The M Studio despite her packed schedule. Having designed spaces for world-renowned brands such as GUCCI, Ralph Lauren, and Pfizer, she is much more than an “interior designer”—she is a creator with rare depth and range. Over coffee, our conversation began gently and stretched well past lunch, revealing a glimpse into her life architecture, which is as warm and intentional as the spaces she shapes.
"Design is ultimately about making something feel like your own.”
Gyusu Lee’s journey began with crafting clothes for dolls. Inspired by her mother, who knitted sweaters and hats, she dreamed of becoming a fashion designer from an early age. After immigrating to the U.S., she was accepted to Parsons, FIT, and Pratt Institute. A single line at Pratt’s orientation changed her course: “Interior design isn’t about decorating—it’s the art of changing how people live.” That message moved her deeply, and she dove into space design without hesitation. Her background in fashion—its aesthetics and creativity—now infuses every project she touches.
Two major collaborations stand out in her career.
First, a renovation project connecting two skyscrapers into one unified corporate headquarters—an effort to reimagine not just structure, but the company's identity. “Collaborating across multiple teams for two years was incredibly challenging, but meaningful.”
The second was working with Hollywood’s film and advertising world. “Designing alongside directors and producers taught me that space itself can tell a story.”
“Good design isn’t just beautiful—it’s intuitive.”
Her philosophy blends functionality with emotion. She shared an experience of placing a microwave in a lower drawer for minimalist aesthetics, only to later realize that someone with back pain would struggle to use it. Since then, she imagines “a day in the life” of every user. Design, for her, must serve the human behind the space.
Living in New York is a dream for many—but it comes with intense competition. She was once laid off during an economic downturn. “I had worked non-stop since college. Getting laid off shattered my self-esteem.”
But instead of giving up, she created structured days for herself, painted in oils, and found her footing again. “Losing a job isn’t the end. It’s a turning point.”
Working with fashion brands like GUCCI and Ralph Lauren expanded her design vocabulary. “Fashion disappears with time, but space carries a brand’s message for years, even decades.” She finds joy in translating a brand’s world into architecture that speaks directly to people.
As a LEED-certified designer, sustainability is non-negotiable. “A sustainable space respects both people and the planet.” From material selection to system design, she collaborates closely with architects and engineers. “Eco-conscious design isn’t a choice—it’s a designer’s responsibility.”
Despite leading international projects, family remains her priority. Whether it's short outings or quiet conversations with her children, those moments recharge her. At times, she takes “reasonless vacations” to watch films and rest. “If I’m not steady, my team and family may shake. Self-care is part of leadership.”
As a team leader on large-scale projects, she emphasizes quick decision-making, respect, and flexibility. “Understanding each team member’s strengths and giving them freedom with accountability produces the best results.” She also fosters a culture where mistakes aren’t punished but seen as experiments.
Looking ahead, she dreams of leading larger, more complex projects and hopes to one day teach or write a book. Her vision for the future is a space where people, experience, and philosophy coexist—a space not just built, but lived.
Our conversation with Gyusu Lee went far beyond interior design—it offered insight into a life shaped by intention, creativity, and heart. The spaces she designs are not just physical structures; they are canvases of story and soul. And as she continues to create, we look forward to the meaningful stories her designs will carry next.
