Cuyana cofounder Karla Gallardo describes her SF home as "warm, minimalist, functional." (Photography by Erin Kunkel for Lonny)

Inside the Homes of Cuyana Founders Karla Gallardo and Shilpa Shah

Lonny

Feb 12, 2019

At some point, we've all felt the anxiety brought on by too much stuff— the clutter in your closet or the cramped furniture arrangement in your studio-sized apartment. Excess is a real struggle.

Which is why we subscribe to the philosophy of Cuyana—the brand that offers elegant, streamlined basics for the modern woman touts the ethos of "fewer, better things."

The thought behind the pared-down statement isn't just evidenced in the products, but extends to the cofounders' personal spaces as well. Working with designer Lauren Nelson, founders Shilpa Shah and Karla Gallardo created their own unique spaces that feel calm, personal, and above all, like an extension of the cult-followed, thoughtful brand they've built together.

Take a look.

A Peek at Karla Gallardo's San Francisco Home

(Photography by Erin Kunkel)

Karla freshens up some florals on her custom credenza by Lauren Nelson Design.

When asked about collaborating with Lauren Nelson on the home, Karla tells Lonny, "Lauren designs through the lens of how to make a space feel comfortable and inviting—while still representing the person."

"We worked together to design the entire space from scratch, with most of the pieces made custom by local artisans. The space was built around a juxtaposition of marble, brass, and light oak for a bright and airy feeling," Karla says.

Inside Shilpa Shah's Home

(Photography by Erin Kunkel)

The pretty little breakfast nook in Shilpa's Oakland home looks peaceful and inviting with a table from MDF Italia, chairs from Target, and a ficus tree she inherited.

When asked about the story behind the tree, Shilpa tells us, "I had the good fortune of taking care of our family dog, Hidey, at the end of her life."

"I was able to give her the same love and attention in her old age as she was able to give me in my youth. I was heartbroken when she died. So we planted the ficus tree in honor of her memory. It's been growing and blessing us for 12 years."

This article was written by Angela Tafoya and styled by Leah Harmatz by Lonny. Click over for the complete slideshow and more stylish home and design stories.

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