37. Beyond Trends: Creating Timeless Design with Nelli Hegi

“Design doesn’t need to please everyone. Designers like McQueen, Schiaparelli, and Margiela showed me that discomfort, exaggeration, and vulnerability aren’t flaws—they’re tools.”In this episode of Behind the Design, I talk with Nelli Hegi, founder and creative director of Hegi Design House, about creating furniture that’s more than functional, it tells a story. Nelli blends furniture, art, fashion, and architecture into bold pieces meant to spark emotion and conversation.We explore her journey of finding her voice, why she stopped chasing validation, and the lessons haute couture taught her about creativity and risk. As Nelli says, “Evolution isn't a lack of direction, it's part of finding your voice.”What You learn in this episode:→ Finding and trusting your creative voice→ Drawing inspiration from fashion, art, and couture→ Making furniture that’s emotional and story-driven→ Balancing craft, collaboration, and sustainable business→ Connecting with clients through storytellingFor anyone interested in expressive, personal design, this episode is full of insights on creating work that truly reflects who you are.Follow Nelli Hegi: https://www.instagram.com/hegi_designhouse/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nelli-hegi-67704765/https://hegidesignhouse.com/Follow Unfolded:https://www.unfolded.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/unfolded_Chapters02:00 – Signature Style vs Evolution04:00 – Childhood & Personal Experiences07:00 – Craftsmanship & Studio Life10:00 – Haute Couture Inspiration13:00 – Overcoming Self-Doubt & Industry Pressure16:00 – Creating Emotional Connections Through Furniture18:00 – Storytelling & Client Interaction20:00 – Dreams, Inspiration & New CollectionsKeywordsinterior design podcastfurniture design inspirationhow to find your design stylecreative confidence designdesign career advicehow to get featured in design magazinesdesign storytellingart vs commercial designbuilding a design brandcreative entrepreneurshipbehind the design podcastCamilla Ingall podcastNelli Hegi Authentic Design