STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN, founded in 2018 by Nacho Polo and Robert Onuska, is a gallery focused on contemporary collectible design at the intersection of functional art, material research, and sculptural expression. With the opening of their flagship space in New York in 2024, this approach was further expanded spatially. In conversation with Chapter, they discuss their curatorial practice, the support of international designers, and the role of narrative, atmosphere, and space within their exhibition format.
Chapter As partners in life, work, and creative vision, how do you each remain true to your individual sensibilities while working toward a shared vision?
STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN Fortunately we are aligned with the direction and curation of the gallery which makes working together seamless. Since opening STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN, we’ve built a practice that values individual creativity while working toward a shared vision for the gallery. Our approach relies on deep conversations, mutual respect, and a commitment to supporting designers whose work resonates with both of us. This allows us to honor our personal sensibilities while making curatorial decisions that align with the gallery’s overall vision—whether it’s selecting works with a strong story, sculptural sensibility, or emotional impact.
Chapter Is there a design period you both feel particularly drawn to, and what continues to resonate with you about that moment in history?
STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN Our work focuses primarily on contemporary collectible design that pushes the boundaries of form, material, and function. While we don’t focus on a specific historical period, we are drawn to moments in design history that emphasize craftsmanship, narrative depth, and emotional resonance. What continues to inspire us is work that creates dialogue between function and expression and engages the viewer on a personal level.
Chapter Looking back at the evolution of STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN, is there a particular curatorial phase or project that you feel especially connected to today, and why?
STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN Without a doubt, the opening of our flagship gallery in New York in 2024 is the project we feel especially connected to. A space where we brought to life who we are, our taste, our sensibility. A space where we combined our interior design with the curation of works from different artists and designers in a poetic environment. Since 2018, the gallery has evolved into a global platform for collectible design. We’re particularly proud of projects that pushed the boundaries of functional art and elevated artists’ work through thoughtful scenography and solo exhibitions. These experiences allowed us to cultivate a community that values collectible design while expanding our curatorial creativity beyond traditional formats. We feel especially connected to moments where exhibitions successfully merge narrative, material, and form—when visitors are fully immersed, and the artist’s vision is amplified through the space.
Chapter Do you see yourselves as mediators of ideas between emerging design talent worldwide, and how do you ensure that your clients remain open-minded and trust your vision?
STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN Supporting emerging talent is central to what we do. We invest in designers who bring a sincere, unique vision and a commitment to excellence, helping them develop a universe rather than just individual objects. We build relationships through storytelling and education, helping them understand the context, materiality, and significance of each piece. Our »by appointment« approach allows us to give clients the time and attention needed to immerse themselves in the works and trust our curatorial guidance. In this way, we act as facilitators of ideas—connecting global designers with collectors who are open to new narratives and perspectives.
Chapter What do you ultimately want people to feel when they encounter a space or collection shaped by STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN?
STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN We want visitors to feel transported—invited into worlds crafted with intention and sensitivity. We hope that guests leave with a renewed appreciation for the poetry of objects and the emotional resonance of design, and an understanding of how thoughtfully considered design can shape the way we live. Each exhibition or collection is designed to create a dialogue between viewer, object, and space, leaving a lasting impression that is both personal and memorable. [Ed.]
