The principal at Gachot Studios has a "say yes to everything" attitude in work and life.

Welcome to Leadership Files, a DLN franchise where Members share what helps them run successful businesses, from daily routines to hiring rules. After cutting her teeth under hospitality tycoon André Balajzs, Christine Gachot joined her husband John's firm, Gachot Studios, in 2012. Since then, the company has grown to a 35-person firm with residential, commercial, and hospitality projects (like Detroit's buzzy Shinola hotel) as well as product lines, including a collection for Waterworks. The firm's modern-meets-maximalist interiors have earned it a place on the AD100 and Elle Decor A-List. Here, Christine shares her go-to morning reading, preferred office setup, and how hands-on experience makes her a better manager.

Photography by David Urbanke

What is the first important thing you do every morning?

Say good morning to John!

What newspaper/magazine/outlet do you never miss an issue of?

NY Times Daily and Weekend, Financial Times and WSJ weekend ONLY. I do the NY Times crossword puzzle daily (I always feel super smart on Mondays!). The Real Estate section is my go-to; The Aesthete and The Columnists are my absolute favorites!

What’s the most useful advice you’ve ever gotten in your career?

I’m always learning! I appreciate good advice, thoughtful ideas, and conversation. I would say I have more of a rolling list rather than one big ah-ha moment. Please reach out if you have any pro tips!

What’s one piece of advice you’re glad you didn’t take?

I had a lot of people question my choice of having a demanding career and being a present parent. What compromise was I making? I had a lot of help for sure and I was supported by my family and friends, but I know people had doubts about how it would play out. I do know that my boys are very proud of me. I once had a friend tell me that I wouldn’t be interested in an event because it was a “mommy thing”—that stung.

How about the advice you didn’t take and wish you had?

I am quick to speak my mind. John kindly reminds me of that often, as there are certainly moments where a pause on my part would have been helpful. These days I try to be mindful of this and exercise restraint. I pick my battles strategically but there are still days…

How did you know the time was right to start your own firm?

I didn’t, it happened by chance! The company I worked for became focused on the European market and my family was in NYC, so I decided to pivot. Giving up my position at André Balazs Properties was hard, so John thankfully offered me a job. I honestly thought it was temporary, but I’ve been here for 10 years! I love the culture and that I get to do a little bit of everything—yes, I still answer the phones!

How did you know when the time was right to grow?

When I joined Gachot, John knew I was very interested in the big projects and that takes resources. So, we grew, we grew fast! He has always been supportive of my personal career.

What’s the most effective way you motivate your employees?

I encourage my team to speak up and get involved. I always try to lead by example and with kindness.

I think my core team appreciates my sincerity; for others, this approach doesn’t necessarily resonate–it’s just a job. And that’s ok too. But I’m always up to something! I truly enjoy design and running a company but I love being part of the team, that’s what motivates me.

How do you keep in sync with employees working remotely?

We are in the studio. Not everyone, every day, but we are back. I’m thankful to be able to work from home on some days and be focused. I know my team also enjoys that flexibility too. They’re probably just as thankful because I’m super distracting, talkative, and I like to have fun!

What’s your first rule of smart hiring?

I surround myself with people who are smarter and more talented than I am–this has always been my rule.

What’s the most important trait of a good manager?

A good manager must truly understand what it takes to do the job of the team they are managing.

It’s helped that I have had every job in the studio–from reception to finance to designer–it helps me understand and appreciate the responsibilities and pressure of each role in the studio.

Who is someone whose business you admire in the design industry?

Hervé Descottes of L’Observatoire International is wildly talented! He truly makes every project so much more special!

How about someone outside the design industry?

Longtime friend and collaborator Tiana Webb-Evans is a force! If she has a speaking engagement, and you have the chance to attend, GO! Truly an inspiration! And so smart! And full of surprises!

This or that:

Open floor plan or closed offices?

Open floor plan

Set desk or rotating spaces throughout the day?

Rotating spaces throughout the day

Phone calls or emails?

Phone calls

Morning or afternoon coffee?

Morning

Reply to email throughout the day or tackle it all at once?

Reply throughout the day

Orderly workspace or organized chaos?

Organized chaos.

Fresh flowers and candle on desk!

Physical pin board or Pinterest/Instagram?

Both!

Early mornings or late nights?

Late nights