Jeni Gamble is the co-founder and creative director of the San Francisco design firm gamble + design. The firm is led by Jeni in partnership with her husband Murray Agnew, who is the technical director. Together they guide the client’s projects from design through execution with the firm’s team. We sat down with Jeni to discuss industry challenges, design influences and the future evolution of design.

Interview by Arkitectura

Can you tell us how gamble + design was conceived?

After a decade of working in a range of design firms in San Francisco, my partner (Murray Agnew) and I decided to open our own firm. We both have degrees in design, mine in Interior Architecture and his is Lighting Design.

. . . read the interview

---

The Team

What is your role at the studio?

I help our co-founders in all aspects of a project: from CAD drawings, space planning, ordering fixtures & furniture, coordinating with contractors and supervising construction sites. 

What drew you to a career in interior design?

I was born and raised in Hong Kong where space, as you can imagine, is at a premium. As such, I learned from a young age how to make the most efficient use of a room and its furniture. I really enjoyed the challenge of optimizing the use of every single inch of a specific space and that, in turn, lead me to become interested in interior design in the wider sense.

What is your favorite clothing designer?

I love the clean lines and general esthetic of Alexander Wang, Derek Law and Jason Wu.  You will never see me dressed in bold colors or crazy outfits. 

What is your favorite local activity?

My favorite local activity is – by far – my never-ending quest for the perfect dim sum spots in the Bay Area (just ask me about my favorites spots next time…I have discovered a few gems…).

We would never see you without…?  

My Sennheiser headphones – they had kept me company through more hours of CAD drafting than I can count…

What is your role at the studio?

As a boutique firm, we all touch many aspects of a project, but I primarily work in the design development phase: rendering 3D models, preparing design presentations, selecting furniture and finish options, working with fabricators and vendors, and more.

What drew you to a career in interior design?

I started my career in the technology industry, but have had a passion for design since I was very young. When my former tech employer moved into a new, beautifully designed space, the possibilities and impact design can have on our environments really clicked into place for me. I’m so happy to have transitioned to a career that allows me to leverage my creative sensibilities and work in the tactile world. 

What is your favorite clothing designer?

I love Scandinavian designers like Ganni and Rodebjer – the unexpected silhouettes, subtle androgyny, and modern elegance of the clothing fits my design aesthetic.  

What is your favorite local activity?

I enjoy wandering the many museums and galleries we’re lucky to have access to in the Bay Area. 

We would never see you without…?  

My AirPods – whether it’s at my desk or out for a walk, I’m always listening to music or podcasts like 99% Invisible, Fresh Air, and The Daily.

What is your role at the studio?

I am primarily in charge of keeping our library and resources organized and up-to date. 

What drew you to a career in interior design?

Design in general, and interior design, in particular, is actually a second career for me. After working for close to 10 years as a corporate attorney, I decided to pursue more creative endeavors and working for Gamble + Design is one of them.  

What is your favorite clothing designer?

One of my favorite local brands is Everlane (a favorite shared with Anica actually…despite our 15-year difference!) I love their timeless and unfussy look combined with superior quality and practicality. Some of the best value for money you can find in terms of clothes!

What is your favorite local activity?

I have a lot to choose from as we live in such a special part of the world but one of my all-time favorite is taking my dog for long walks along Ocean Beach.  Ocean Beach seems always magical to me – no matter the weather or time of day: I always end up with a clear head and fully recharged batteries. 

We would never see you without…?  

A foulard or a scarf. Even though I have been calling San Francisco home for close to 10 years now, I was born and raised in Paris and this is one childood habit I will keep my whole life.  Plus, with the ever-changing weather of the Bay Area, you never want to be caught without an extra layer you can peel off or add on.