November 3, 2025
By Mary Beth Lawlor
For more than two decades, designer Philip Gorrivan has been creating interiors that transcend beauty and function to embody something more enduring: a story. With the release of his new book, Authentic Interiors, Gorrivan reflects on the philosophy that has guided his work and shaped countless spaces over the years.
“This book isn’t just a portfolio,” he explains. “It’s a reflection of the philosophy I’ve developed over time: that rooms should tell the stories of the people who inhabit them. After so many projects, it felt like the right moment to pause, take stock, and share that point of view.”
At the heart of Gorrivan’s work is storytelling. Every client brings with them a history, memories, and aspirations. His role, he says, is to weave those elements into interiors that feel layered, personal, and true. Whether it’s integrating heirlooms, displaying collections, or choosing materials that resonate, Gorrivan’s approach ensures that design is never generic—it’s narrative. “Authentic. Narrative. Layered,” he says, distilling his process into three guiding words.
Drama and livability, two often competing ideals in design, coexist harmoniously in his projects. “For me, drama comes from creating impact,” he explains. “It could be a lacquered entryway or a bold patterned fabric. Livability, however, is about comfort and ease. It’s knowing where to provide visual rest so that a home feels both exciting and welcoming.”
The projects featured in Authentic Interiors reveal the breadth of his talent and the evolution of his vision. A Park Avenue apartment, for instance, balances modern and antique furnishings with contemporary art, all set against a backdrop of bold colors. The result reflects Gorrivan’s belief in the dialogue between past and present, and the power of color to define a space.
In contrast, a Connecticut country house highlights craftsmanship, architectural detail, and pattern, completely transforming the spirit of the home. Together, these projects illustrate his ability to adapt while remaining grounded in authenticity and narrative design.
Gorrivan’s roots in Washington, Connecticut, where he has had a home for more than 25 years, continue to inspire him. “Litchfield County has a special rhythm and sense of history that I deeply value. The community of creatives, the natural landscape, and the slower pace—it all offers balance to the intensity of city life.” That balance, between city energy and rural grounding, is often mirrored in his interiors.
He emphasizes timeless values over fleeting trends: quality craftsmanship, proportion, and authenticity. “A well-made piece or a room that feels true to its inhabitants will always outlast the latest fad,” he says.
His advice to those looking to create meaningful spaces is simple. “Start with something personal: a piece of art, a chair with history, a color that speaks to you. Build from that anchor point, and don’t be afraid to edit. Homes should evolve; they don’t need to be finished all at once.”
Looking ahead, Gorrivan is excited about the blending of disciplines—art, craft, technology, and sustainability—and how they are shaping new ways of living. He is also pursuing hospitality projects and product design collaborations, always with authenticity and storytelling at the core.
Ultimately, Gorrivan’s interiors, like his book, remind us that great design is not about decoration alone. It’s about creating places where stories are lived, remembered, and shared.
