By: SEBASTIAN PHILLIPS
Nacho Polo and Robert Onuska Elevate Collectible Design with STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN
When Spanish interior designer Nacho Polo sought a career pivot upon moving to Miami, he founded STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN—a gallery specializing in collectible, one-of-a-kind design and furniture. Established in 2018 with life partner Robert Onuska, the studio now boasts locations in Miami and New York City, alongside a strong global presence facilitated by an international sales force. Since its inception, STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN has introduced numerous custom collections by some of the most exciting names in the design world.
LET’S START WITH YOUR BACKGROUNDS. WHAT WERE EACH OF YOU INVOLVED WITH BEFORE STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN?
Nacho Polo: I began my career as an interior designer in Spain. After relocating to Miami, I pivoted to focus on founding STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN. My design background continues to inform my role, where I oversee all visual aspects of the gallery, including interior design and branding.
Robert Onuska: My background is in luxury fashion merchandising, which complements Nacho’s design expertise. Together, we manage the business and operational aspects of the gallery, offering a distinctive creative vision and unique works.
THE GALLERY HAS EVOLVED SIGNIFICANTLY SINCE ITS INCEPTION, HASN’T IT?
Nacho Polo: When we launched in 2018, our focus was primarily on introducing Scandinavian design, which was then relatively new to the United States.
DO DESIGNERS APPROACH YOU, OR DO YOU ACTIVELY SEEK THEM OUT? HOW DOES YOUR BUSINESS MODEL OPERATE?
Nacho Polo: The majority of the limited edition and collectible design works we represent are commissioned exclusively for us. We often collaborate closely with artists and designers to develop these unique pieces that align with our gallery’s aesthetic.
WHAT IS YOUR COLLABORATION PROCESS LIKE?
Robert Onuska: We make decisions collaboratively, drawing on our distinct skill sets and focusing on refining each project to achieve the best possible result.
THE ELEGANT MINIMALISM OF STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN IS QUITE DISTINCTIVE. DOES THIS REFLECT YOUR PERSONAL AESTHETIC AS WELL?
Nacho Polo: Absolutely. We enjoy creating serene, minimalist spaces that are enriched by the artworks we integrate. Robert and I place great importance on the beauty of everyday life, and we delight in curating the gallery’s collection, often rotating pieces between our homes and our galleries.
HOW HAS THE DESIGN INDUSTRY EVOLVED SINCE YOUR GALLERY’S LAUNCH?
Robert Onuska: There has been a noticeable rise in functional art in recent years, blurring the lines between traditional sculptural art and furniture design.
WITH GALLERIES IN MIAMI AND NEW YORK, WHAT OTHER MARKETS ARE YOU CONSIDERING?
Nacho Polo: We are planning to expand our gallery spaces, beginning with London in spring 2025. We also aim to establish a presence in Asia and the Middle East, building on our growing client base in those regions.
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR STUDIOTWENTYSEVEN?
Nacho Polo: Our focus is on expanding globally and enhancing our current locations.
Robert Onuska: Through dynamic collaborations and our dedication to showcasing emerging talent, we aim to curate exhibitions that not only captivate but also inspire our audience. | studiotwentyseven.com
