First impressions bespoke Interiors design timeless impressions with a unique approach for its clients

At interior design company First Impressions, the art of interior design goes beyond mere aesthetics; it is an immersive experience led by founder Alexandra (Alexi) Cary. With a philosophy rooted in creating spaces that echo the unique narratives and visions of her clients, Alexi has developed a distinctive methodology that sets her apart in the industry.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Alexi’s approach is her commitment to living in the homes she renovates. Unlike typical interior designers who might oversee a project from a distance, Alexi immerses herself fully in the environment. “I walk around in the middle of the night, taking pictures of everything that’s wrong,” she explains. This hands-on involvement allows her to catch and address issues promptly, assuring that the project is finished early and within the budget frame. Her presence on-site guarantees that every detail aligns with her high standards, reflecting her personal touch and rigorous quality control.

Alexi’s dedication to her clients is unwavering. If a client is not completely satisfied with any aspect of their home, she insists on redoing it. “If the client says it’s a seven out of ten, I know we’re not done here,” she asserts. This commitment to perfection is why her clients trust her implicitly, often giving her complete creative freedom, with the only input being the color scheme.

Her design ethos is a rich tapestry of influences. Growing up in Dubai, she was mesmerized by the opulence of Sheikh Mohammed’s palace, an experience that left a lasting impression on her aesthetic sensibilities. The luxurious and gilded elements of Dubai’s architecture often seep into her designs, creating spaces that are both extravagant and inviting.

Alexi’s familial connections also play a crucial role. Inspired by her aunt, who originally founded an interior design company also named First Impressions, Alexi adopted the name and the passion. Her mother, a fashion design graduate from Parsons, introduced her to the Memphis Design Movement, a retro aesthetic characterized by bold colors, geometric shapes, and a playful aesthetic, which continues to influence her work.

She describes her unique construction style, which she refers to as her ‘jewelry box.’ Alexi uses high gloss paint from fine paints of Europe, a unique type found in London. The front doors are lacquered with this shiny paint, akin to the lacquered doors in London. She also enjoys using wallpaper on the ceiling, calling it the ‘fifth wall,’ which she finds absolutely irresistible.

Alexi’s design philosophy marries high-end luxury with practical functionality. She compares designing a home to writing a movie script, with the project unfolding through various climactic moments until reaching a satisfying conclusion. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that every element, from the largest structural components to the smallest decorative pieces, contributes to the overall harmony of the space.

Alexi’s design magic has graced homes across the globe, from the sleek penthouses of New York City to the sun-kissed villas of Palm Springs. Her projects include high-profile locations such as the Hamptons and The Greenbrier Sporting Club, leaving a trail of beautifully bespoke spaces, where high-end meets low, and art meets soul.

Each project is a reflection of her client’s story along with Alexi’s personal touch meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of well-traveled sophistication. Her designs integrate both indoor and outdoor serenity.Her plans span beyond interior furniture and fixtures, archways and textures, they also come complete with entire landscape design plans for every property. Whether it's to enhance a commanding entry, or ensuring a view of birds from an office window, everything is taken into account to create that feeling of serenity. As she aptly puts it, “At First Impressions, we aim to elevate our client’s surroundings with curated furnishings, harmonious color palettes, and innovative layouts.”