Nicole Fuller Designs a Room Around an Alexander Yulish Artwork

Galerie asked the colorful designer to create an interior based on a favorite work by her artist husband

A couple dressed elegantly, smiling at an evening event with a dimly lit background.
Nicole Fuller and Alexander Yulish. Photo: Hannah Thomson

With her layered and innovative style, Nicole Fuller—the daughter of an artist (as well as the wife of one)—is known for her confident use of color and sculptural furniture. That’s why every room she conjures becomes a unique masterpiece.

“Being an interior designer and art adviser, I often design around an artwork and continue its story throughout the space,” says Fuller. “Together but Apart by my husband, painter Alexander Yulish, is romantic and beautiful—perfect for a bedroom. He’s a color master and often inspires the palettes I create. We actually met when I started buying his art for my clients. I was drawn to his pieces before I ever knew he would be my friend, partner, and husband.”

Together but Apart (2019) by Alexander Yulish.

Abstract painting with vibrant splashes of pink, red, and black brushstrokes on a light background, creating dynamic movement.
Alexander Yulish, Together but Apart, 2019. Courtesy of the artist

Unique Crystal Cluster illuminated sculpture by Jeff Zimmerman; r-and-company.com.

Blue crystal-shaped chandelier with gold accents, giving an elegant and modern flair to interior decoration.
Unique Crystal Cluster illuminated sculpture by JeffZimmerman. Courtesy of R & Company

Relic Vessel series by Marc Fish; toddmerrillstudio.com.

Tall, intricately carved wooden vase with layered, spiral design and hollow sections on a white background.
Relic Vessel series by Marc Fish. Courtesy of Todd Merrill Studio

Jardin Intérieur rug by India Mahdavi for La Manufacture Cogolin; manufacturecogolin.com.

Yellow geometric textile pattern with diamond shapes and horizontal lines, creating a visually striking design.
Jardin Intérieur rug by India Mahdavi for La Manufacture Cogolin. Courtesy of La Manufacture Cogolin

Benitier bench by Mauro Mori; ateliercourbet.com.

Wooden sculptural bench with smooth, flowing design and natural finish.
Benitier bench by Mauro Mori. Courtesy of Les Ateliers Courbet

Oval Tube cabinet by Christophe Côme; cristinagrajalesinc.com.

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Round cabinet with vertical glass rods and two black-framed doors, featuring a glossy surface and modern design.
Oval Tube cabinet by Christophe Côme. Courtesy of Cristina Grajales Gallery

Stella 01 bed by Nicole Fuller for Savoir, upholstered in Perle No. 4 mohair fabric by Pierre Frey; savoirbeds.com, pierrefrey.com.

Modern bed with a gray quilted headboard, stylish pillows, and a draped satin sheet in a cozy bedroom setting
Stella 01 bed by Nicole Fuller for Savoir. Courtesy of Savoir

Scarabe side chair by Laura Kirar; maisongerard.com.

Unique black wooden chair with an intricate carved backrest and cushioned seat, featuring a modern, artistic design.
Scarabe side chair by Laura Kirar. Courtesy of Maison Gerard

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2019 Late Fall issue in the section “The Artful Home: Love Notes.” Subscribe to the magazine.