Designer & HGTV Star Genevieve Gorder Talks New Netflix Series & Favorite Four Hands Styles

FOUR HANDS: You’re currently filming part of a forthcoming television series here in Austin. Since details are still under wraps, can you start with telling us why you chose to film in Austin?

GENEVIEVE GORDER: Austin has a consistently young population fueling its economy, which keeps design progressive. Stylistically, the city has a distinctively effortless swagger… it never feels forced.

FH: You’ve chosen several Four Hands products for the local project you’re currently designing. What about our aesthetic speaks to you?

GG: Four Hands pieces are timeless and enduring. If designs are too trendy, any space will look dated within six months. I also love the brand’s heavy use of brass, and how woods are used in ways that echo their roots… That alone carries an authenticity I don’t see often.

FH: Any favorite new Four Hands styles?

GG: The Jacob Swivel Chair. It’s so earthy and sexy! Velvets are everything right now, especially in deep tones like rust and olive. This chair is a timeless piece for any room. I’m also loving the Lucas Coffee Table and Beckwith Sofa.

FH: What’s the first task you tackle when approaching a new project?

GG: That varies, and is specific to the needs of each client. I’m interested in the psychology of design, so I like to get to know who I’m working for first. There are so many facets of style, and it’s not boxed—it’s very personal.

FH: Any distinctively “Genevieve” touches you tend to incorporate into each project?

GG: I like to give something unexpected. Especially in television, there needs to be an element of surprise. I can’t design the same living 83 times, because it’s viewable to millions of people! Staying clever can be pressure-inducing, but it’s fun.

FH: What are three adjectives to describe your current aesthetic?

GG: It’s ever-changing, but right now I’d say “global,” “soulful” and “classic.”

FH: We can’t help but notice your astrological necklace! To which classically “Leo” character traits do you most relate?

GG: [Laughs.] We Leos can be bossy, but we’re so excited about everything. We’re generous, which is reflected in my design approach. I want to bring people joy.

FH: You’ve been known to work sans shoes. What’s the one item you absolutely couldn’t work without?

GG: I can’t work without a great team. My hands and eyes can only do so much. I’m a stickler when it comes to work, but a gal is only as good as her pack.