Although interior designer Fawn Galli typically designs for others, she found that the process of creating her family’s Brooklyn townhouse was an exercise in self-discovery. What is more, for Galli, decorating the house brought her closer to her “ultimate conquest of life,” which is “to live [my] life as closely to who [I am] as possible.” The resulting space is a melange of her varied aesthetic interests.

Inside the home, Galli juxtaposes glamorous and bohemian elements to create an interior that intentionally incorporates clashes. It was informed by her design philosophy, which, she explains, is based on five core elements: nature, eclecticism, a no-rules attitude, and a resounding love of both surrealism and disco. More specifically, she drew inspiration from architect Eileen Gray, Salvador Dalí, and “odd assemblages of items that make people question where they are.”

Initially, Galli found it difficult to design a space for her family as opposed to a client. Her children had input when it came to their bedrooms, and, as a colorist, she was uncertain whether to accommodate her son’s desire for a black-and-white space. Compromise nonetheless ruled the day, and Galli ultimately settled on blue, black, and white fabrics for her son’s room.