Text by Claire Pool
Chic craftsmanship and environmental perspectives are abundant throughout Stephanie Kienle Gonzalez’s interior designs, displayed in her first book, Embracing Natural Design: Inspired Living. As a multifaceted entrepreneur and lifestyle brand vice president, Stephanie creates spaces that reflect her taste for elegant simplicity and natural inspiration.
A showcase of Stephanie’s homes and ideas shines throughout the book’s 244 pages. From her childhood in Manila, Philippines, and familial roots to nature’s creations, she’s inspired to think in an environmentally conscious way, and this desire takes center stage when it comes to her design process. Her humble apartment inside the heart of bustling Manila was designed with her husband and their three children in mind. A place that embraces everyday living and normal wear and tear, this home shows how to be both stylish and functional. In the same vein, her home in Lapalala, South Africa, is a vision of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Surrounded by lush wilderness and magnificent cliffs, this eco-friendly family retreat involves a mixture of traditional African design with Stephanie’s Filipino-style touches. Though distanced by 6,000 miles, Stephanie’s two homes boast her style flawlessly.
Stephanie also shares some of her favorite creatives who inspire her. Designers, architects, and artists from all over the world receive her praise and admiration—from Tim Steyn’s incredible landscape work to Elora Hardy’s sustainable architecture. Tips on interior design can also be found in the book, giving readers an opportunity to glean superior guidance. In addition to a section on entertaining ideas, Stephanie shares stories and insight into Philux, her family’s decades-old Filipino furniture brand.
With an overall emphasis on appreciating everyday elements with an artisanal feel, this book demonstrates how to curate long-lasting pieces in your home that can be accented with modern touches. Stephanie’s Embracing Natural Design encourages intentional thinking throughout your next interior design project.
