Matter’s High-Touch Collaborative Process

01

GETTING TO KNOW THE CLIENT

Our process begins with an in-depth interview that goes beyond the surface of design preferences. We aim to understand our clients on a personal level—how they live, what their daily routines look like, and what inspires them. Whether it’s where they like to enjoy their morning coffee or how often they entertain, these details inform the starting point of our design.

As Nicole Hernandez, one of Matter’s principals, explains:

“It’s about truly understanding the intricacies of how our clients live. Their lifestyle becomes the foundation for every design decision we make.”

By diving into the intricacies of a client’s day-to-day life, we gain the insight needed to create designs that are as functional as they are beautiful. From how a family moves through their home to how they relax at the end of the day, every detail is considered to ensure that the design supports, rather than complicates, their lives.

01

FURNITURE CURATION 

Furniture selection is one of the most exciting phases of our process. Once we’ve collaborated with the client on an approved floor plan, we move forward with populating the space with original, intentional pieces that bring both comfort and joy. Each piece of furniture we select is carefully evaluated to match our client’s lifestyle goals, ensuring it meets both their aesthetic and functional needs.

For example, a family-focused home may require durable yet stylish upholstery for movie nights, while a more formal space might benefit from a unique sculptural chair that makes a statement. Our network of trusted partners allows us to design custom pieces when necessary, ensuring that every aspect of the furniture fits the space perfectly.

As Nicole shares:

“We try to do at least one or two custom pieces for every home. Recently, we designed a metal armoire with ebonized oak, leather panels, and custom drawers—down to the quarter-inch reveal of metal detailing.”

01

FINE ART CURATION

Art selection is a highly personalized process that moves beyond color-matching to the room. It’s about finding pieces that resonate emotionally with the client, pieces that evoke a personal connection or reflect their individual story. Whether curating an investment piece from an emerging artist or sourcing something decorative that enhances the overall aesthetic, we take care to ensure each piece of art has significance and meaning for the client.

Our extensive network of galleries and art industry contacts allows us to present a wide range of options, and we often commission custom pieces to ensure the perfect fit for the space.

01

LIGHTING CURATION

Lighting plays a critical role in setting the mood of a space, and at Matter, we approach lighting as an art form in itself. Thoughtfully chosen lighting not only illuminates a space but also adds depth, dimension, and character. We take into account every detail—whether it’s incorporating subtle architectural lighting or installing a custom chandelier designed to fit the exact dimensions of a room. Nicole explains the transformative power of lighting:

“Lighting can completely change a space… It’s an intentional way to add interest, dimension, shadows, temperature, and ambiance.”

From functional lighting solutions to bold, statement pieces, we balance aesthetic appeal with the practical needs of the space.

01

A SEAMLESS, HIGH-TOUCH EXPERIENCE

What sets Matter apart is not just the caliber of the design but the deep level of collaboration we foster with our clients throughout the entire process. We see ourselves as guides, helping clients bring their vision to life, all while listening and refining our approach based on their feedback. By the end of each project, our clients feel that they have truly contributed to the design and are living in a home that reflects who they are.

Ultimately, the goal of our process is to leave our clients with a home that functions effortlessly for them—a sanctuary where they can relax and recharge. As Nicole perfectly sums it up:

“I want to make sure that clients flow through their home so effortlessly and serenely that they don’t even have to think when they’re in their home.”

At Matter, we believe that thoughtful design starts with understanding people. Our highly personalized, collaborative process ensures that each home is not only beautifully curated but also tailored to the unique needs and desires of those who live there.