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In Conversation with… Abby Gruman
07 November 2025
Interviews
From designing her children’s nursery to founding her own interior design firm, Abby Gruman of Abby Leigh Designs has built a reputation for crafting spaces that marry classic East Coast elegance with a modern, livable sensibility.
Drawing inspiration from travel, architecture, and her love of layered color and form, Abby approaches every project with an eye for timeless detail and warmth. In this conversation, she shares her design journey, how lighting serves as both muse and anchor in her work, and why sculptural pieces from Gabriel Scott have become defining elements in her pursuit of elevated, enduring interiors.
Abby, could you share the pivotal moments in your journey—from designing your children’s nursery to becoming principal at Abby Leigh Designs?
One of the pivotal moments in my journey from designing my children’s nursery to becoming Principal at Abby Leigh Designs was the time I spent working for an incredible designer in New York City. Over the five years I was with her, she not only taught me the fundamentals of running a successful business but also shared invaluable creative and design insights. That experience gave me the confidence and courage to step out on my own and start Abby Leigh Designs.
You seamlessly blend classic and contemporary elements. How would you describe your signature style, and how does it reflect your East Coast sensibilities?
My signature style is rooted in classic design but always infused with a fresh, modern perspective. I love creating spaces that feel layered and collected, where traditional architectural elements meet clean-lined furniture and unexpected color. Growing up and working on the East Coast, I’ve always been drawn to timeless design with a touch of refinement—think tailored silhouettes, rich textures, and a balance of comfort and sophistication.
Where do you draw inspiration today—architecture, travel, heirlooms, or perhaps your background studies in education and history?
Today, much of my design inspiration comes from travel and architecture. I love exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and seeing how their way of life influences design. Each destination offers unique perspectives, whether through materials, colors, or architectural details, that I bring back into my work.
Since launching your firm, how has your aesthetic evolved, and have your clients’ expectations influenced that evolution?
Since launching my firm, my aesthetic has definitely evolved, especially in the way I approach color and lighting. I embrace bold, layered color palettes, and I now see lighting as a true focal point of my designs rather than just an afterthought. The right fixture can completely transform a space.
You’ve used Gabriel Scott pieces across several projects. What draws you to their lighting, and how do these fixtures inform a space from concept to completion?
I’m so drawn to Gabriel Scott lighting because each piece feels like a work of art. Their designs make such a bold statement and instantly elevate any space. They’re the kind of fixtures that truly transform a room.
In projects with heavy architectural features—such as high ceilings or historic detailing—how do you use lighting to enhance both the structure and the mood?
In projects with strong architectural features, it’s all about working with the space you’re given. I love to enhance what’s already there while adding my own touch with a modern flair. Lighting is one of my favorite ways to do this because it highlights the architecture, draws the eye, and becomes a focal point without ever taking away from the beauty of the original features.
Can you describe a room where a standout pendant or chandelier served as the hero, and another where you focused on layering multiple light sources for texture?
In a recent dining room I designed, the Gabriel Scott chandelier truly became the hero of the space. We chose it in black glass, and the bold color paired with its architectural form makes such a striking statement. It instantly commands attention and elevates the entire room.
In contrast, I recently designed a family room where layered lighting was key including sconces for ambient glow, picture lights to highlight art, and a soft linen shade overhead for warmth. The combination created depth and texture, making the space feel cozy yet dynamic.
Your portfolio features beautiful nurseries and playrooms. How do you approach lighting for functional yet whimsical spaces where families and children gather?
I love designing children’s spaces because they’re the perfect opportunity to step outside the box. It’s where I get to mix and match colors, patterns, and textures in playful ways. Whimsical lighting is one of my favorite touches, especially in fun colors or unexpected shapes you might not use elsewhere in the home. It’s all about creating joy and imagination while keeping the space practical and comfortable.
What are your top tips for homeowners aiming for a luxurious yet livable interior—particularly when choosing lighting to match their lifestyle?
My top tip is to choose lighting that feels intentional but livable. Don’t be afraid to mix materials like aged brass with glass or linen shades to create depth. Dimmers are your best friend for versatility, and scale is key. Oversized fixtures can actually make a space feel grander and more balanced. Ultimately, lighting should feel both beautiful and functional—it’s what brings a home to life.
How can designers elevate transition spaces like hallways or foyers with lighting, and do you have a go-to fixture type or styling approach?
Transition spaces are often overlooked, but they’re such an opportunity to make an impact. I love using statement pendants or a series of smaller fixtures to draw you through the space. In hallways, picture lights over art can completely transform the mood, while in foyers, I lean toward sculptural pieces that make a strong first impression without overwhelming the architecture.
Do you typically begin a project with a lighting statement, or does lighting evolve in response to furniture, layout, or mood?
Lighting is never an afterthought. It’s the first thing I choose when starting a new design because it creates the atmosphere and anchors the space.
What trends or shifts are you noticing in your market—whether it’s in materials, sustainable lighting, or nuanced forms of luxury?
There’s definitely a move toward softer forms of luxury. People want homes that feel curated but comfortable. I’m seeing a lot more natural materials in lighting like alabaster, stone, and hand-blown glass, which bring an organic, artisanal feel. Clients are also asking for pieces that feel timeless rather than trendy, investing in design that will age beautifully.
As smart home technology and LED options evolve rapidly, how do you balance aesthetics, longevity, and sustainability in your lighting selections?
It’s all about balance. I love incorporating LED technology for its longevity and efficiency, but I make sure the color temperature feels warm and natural so it complements the design. I also prioritize craftsmanship. Pieces that are made to last, both in style and in quality, align perfectly with the idea of sustainable luxury.
Creative Perspective
Which room do homeowners most often overlook—but offers the biggest payoff when it’s beautifully lit or styled?
Homeowners often overlook the foyer, but it’s truly one of the most impactful spaces in a home. As the first room you see when you walk in, and in many cases, even from outside, it sets the tone for the entire house. When styled thoughtfully, it makes a lasting impression. I love incorporating fresh elements like tall branches or seasonal florals, which bring height, movement, and a sense of welcome that immediately elevates the space.
Are there any ‘rules’ in lighting or interior design that you love to bend or outright break? Can you share an example?
I love breaking the rule that every finish in a home has to match. Mixing metals, like pairing polished nickel with antique brass, adds so much depth and character. I also think lighting should sometimes feel a bit unexpected. Placing a statement fixture in a smaller room, like a powder bath or walk-in closet, can completely change the energy of the space.
If you had complete freedom—budget, space, materials—what’s your dream interior to design, and what bespoke lighting would you choose to define it?
My dream project would be a historic brownstone on the Upper East Side, restoring its architectural charm while layering in modern art and bespoke lighting. I’d love to collaborate with a lighting studio to design custom sculptural fixtures in hand-blown glass and mixed metals—pieces that feel both timeless and avant-garde, much like the city itself.
With special thanks to Abby Gruman. Discover more of her work via her website: abbyleighdesigns.com.