6 Design Teams That Are IRL Couples

Talk about #relationshipgoals.

Nikhita Mahtani

Published Sep 21, 2017 5:10 PM

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They say you shouldn’t mix work with relationships; it’s said to cause issues, and this might be even more true when it comes to design. And as anyone who has moved in with a partner knows, combining decor styles can be unbelievably tricky.

But there are exceptions to every rule. Case in point: These six pairs of designer couples—they make it look oh so easy.

The Novogratz

, Cortney and Robert Novogratz

LA-based husband and wife team The Novogratz have made a true name for themselves in the years they’ve been together. Projects include incredible hotels W Hoboken and Hotel Dylan, as well as the homes of several A-listers. Add three design books and a successful HGTV show into the mix, and you’ll see that Cortney and Robert, who also happen to be parents of seven, are not messing around—they even recently launched a curated Amazon shop. Their creations boasts modern style with chic details, perfect for both the confused millennial and the seasoned buyer—showing that sometimes, all you need is a little teamwork.

Pencil & Paper Co., Gen and Benjamin Sohr

Quirky-cool Nashville-based design team Pencil & Paper Co. boasts some seriously cheerful decor—have you seen some of their creations?—which they claim are due to several nights of “creative conversation.” They offer everything from full architectural renovations to interior design and styling, and have worked some incredible projects, including Reese Witherspoon’s flagship Draper James store. The Sohrs prove that in order to make things run as smoothly as possible, you shouldn’t forget to have a little fun.

Roman and Williams, Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch

Together for over a decade, Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch of Roman and Williams know a thing or two about both love and design. Always different and never limiting one another, the couple makes sure to always try things that are new and exciting—and that willingness to experiment is seen in their projects. From New York hot spot Le Coucou to the new Ace Hotel in New Orleans, the couple tries to incorporate something different in every space—thus never being limited by a certain style or design.

And coming this November, the dynamic duo will launch an e-commerce platform and open their first brick-and-mortar space, Roman and Williams Guild NY. It will sell a line of furniture, lighting, and accessories, and even include a cafe and flower shop.

Carrier and Company, Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller

With a roster of high-profile clients, including Anna Wintour and Jason Wu, Jesse and Mara of Carrier and Company know glamorous design when they see it. Striking accents, modern colors, and a touch of luxe spice up every home they touch, and they realize that the best way to make a statement is to just go all out. With a shared style that is both heavily curated and has a touch of whimsy, the couple’s roster includes some of the glitziest private residences around the country.

Studio McGee, Syd and Shea McGee

This Utah-based design duo has a signature style that will always pack a bold punch, no matter the room or color scheme. Started by a stay-at-home mom who was looking for a way to cultivate her talents,

studio mcgee

has transformed itself in only a few years into one of the most well-known firms in the country (which shows, since they’re booked through 2018). Specializing in remodels, [%1713%] promises to transform your drab space into a bright, airy sanctuary.

Magnolia, Chip and Joanna Gaines

Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without the most followed design duo in Waco, Texas—heck, the country. From a hit TV show and home line to vacation rentals and Target collabs, there’s nothing this dynamic couple can’t do. With Chip handling the architecture and Joanna handling the interiors, the two have a shared aesthetic, but different functions, therefore ensuring they don’t come in each other’s way. But at the heart of every passion project is one desire: to create warm, comforting family homes.