INTERIOR DESIGNER TOVA KOOK

In the world of interior design, where creativity meets functionality, Tova Kook stands out as a beacon of innovation and sophistication. With her keen eye for detail and a passion for aesthetics, she has carved a niche for herself in the industry, transforming spaces into captivating works of art.

Tova Kook’s journey into the world of design was sparked by a deep-rooted passion for art and beauty. From a young age, she found herself drawn to the interplay of colors, textures, and forms, seeing the potential to create something extraordinary out of the ordinary. This innate curiosity and creativity laid the foundation for her future endeavors in interior design.

A PASSION IGNITED
Armed with a strong desire to pursue her passion professionally, Tova pursued a formal education in interior design, honing her skills and expanding her knowledge base. She immersed herself in the study of architectural principles, design theory, and the latest trends, equipping herself with the tools needed to excel in her chosen field. Tova’s dedication to her craft and thirst for innovation set her apart, allowing her to develop a unique design sensibility that would later define her signature style.

A PORTFOLIO OF EXCELLENCE
At the heart of Tova Kook’s design philosophy lies a commitment to timeless elegance and attention to detail. She seamlessly blends elements of modern and traditional design, juxtaposing sleek lines with luxurious textures and subtle accents. Tova’s interiors exude sophistication and refinement, yet they remain inviting and livable, striking the perfect balance between form and function. Her use of color, lighting, and spatial arrangement creates harmonious compositions that captivate the senses and elevate the overall ambiance of a space.

Over the years, Tova Kook has amassed an impressive portfolio of projects spanning residential to hospitality spaces. Her designs have garnered acclaim for their innovation, style, and craftsmanship. Each project reflects Tova’s unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to translate her clients’ dreams into reality.

A SIGNATURE STYLE
Tova Kook’s journey as an interior designer is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and passion. Through her visionary approach and impeccable execution, she has reshaped the way we perceive and experience the spaces around us, leaving an indelible mark on the world of design. As she continues to push the boundaries of innovation and aesthetics, Tova Kook remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring designers and design enthusiasts alike, proving that with talent, dedication, and a touch of artistry, anything is possible in the realm of design.

We recently met with Tova Kook to learn more about this fascination woman and her innovative designs.

Tova, tell us about yourself!
I am the founder of TK Designs and the wife and mother of three children—Abby, Ethan, and Arielle who live on Long Island. I was a former design student at the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC. Before that, I acquired a fine art degree in Art and Psychology from Queens College. I happen to also be a Parsons School of Design dropout, but that’s a story for another time! I am a true Capricorn who feels most alive when I am working. I am ambitious, goal oriented, and have a wacky wild side. To quote Lisa Stardust, she describes Capricorns as “hardworking, persistent, creative, honest, reflective, protective, and sensitive.” Because they are Earth signs, she adds, they “relish the material and physical world.”

I try to approach my design projects with a full understanding of the relationship between color, space, and proportion. Focusing on transforming interiors into sophisticated but comfortable environments for everyday living. I strive to seamlessly blend the needs of my client with my own unique vision.

How did you get into interior design?
It happened without even realizing it! When I was in 3rd grade, my parents switched my school, and I had a hard time sleeping at night. I would wake my parents. Eventually I was sent to therapy, and the only way this doctor was able to crack the insomnia cycle and get me to stay in bed, was the bribery of 20 gold stars I would receive if I stayed in the bedroom. This resulted in a newly designed bedroom for myself. My parents hired an interior designer, and I had a blast choosing yellow and blue wallpaper and matching bedding to go with it.

Later in high school, I studied abroad in Israel, and my parents had bought an apartment in Jerusalem. I was assigned to meet with the interior designer from time to time and make decisions. Still not thinking I was to purse interior design, after getting married, I had too much fun decorating my apartment. At the time, the direction was to become an art teacher, but I realized soon enough that I did not want to teach, but rather wanted to create so I went to design school. After going to the Fashion Institute of Technology for interior design, I feared I would not make it in the design world. I had a client here and there, but corporate life was not for me.  

Where do you look for design inspiration?
I look for inspiration in Europe and from European designers’ work. I love sourcing from the invisible collection. One architect that stands out is Jean-Louis Denoiot. My husband and I took a trip to Paris and stayed in the Nolinski Hotel, a boutique hotel Denoiot designed. I love everything he did in the hotel. The furniture, painted clouds on the walls, curtains, and rugs are all intricately layered with detail never looks like it’s too much.  

A second architect I take inspiration from is Cristina Celestino. I love her daring use of color. This past summer, my husband and I took a trip to Ravello, on the Amalfi Coast, where we stayed at Palazzo Avino. I normally do not like most shades of pink, but Celestino is that good, and I stayed in her pink hotel just because she did it. By the end of the trip, I cased up on the color.  

What prompted you to incorporate your art works into your designing homes? I had made a painting years ago that reminded me of a living room we had just completed for a house. I could not find the right piece to put up, and knew this painting would look amazing. I decided to bring the painting to the house just for the photoshoot, and the client ended up loving it, and buying it. Before I knew it, other clients were requesting paintings, and random Instagram followers as well.

Any top design tips that you can share? When choosing a paint color, always look at a sample on two different walls, and in the morning and evening.  

Remember the 70/30 rule! Seventy percent of a room in one style, and thirty percent in another. Mixing styles creates an eclectic personalized space.  

Always test your fabrics out. Pour ketchup on a sample, then try to take that stain out to see if the fabric is actually stain resistant as it claims to be. 

What is your favorite room to decorate and why?
I love designing boys’ bedrooms. I love to choose a theme and run with it. 

Do you have a secret skill?
Aside from being a fine artist, I would say my secret skill is getting people to open up. Throw me the most private, complicated person, and you will find I can understand them, and resiliently work with them.  

What is your favorite current trend?
Lime wash and Roman clay wall finish. I am also loving the white Plaster furniture, lighting, and pottery we are seeing all over in fun curvaceous styles. I cannot get enough. 

Share your favorite weekend activity?
No questions: it’s painting with my kids and bike riding. 

Tell our readers your favorite home decor store?
Home Goods! I just love the thrill of a good find, purchasing inexpensive pieces I can bring home, paint on top of, reupholster, cut up and just mutilate. 

For more information on Tova Kook, visit tkdesign.com