We had the good fortune of connecting with Gabriel Anderson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Gabriel, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
Where are you from and how did your background and upbringing impact who you are today?
“I grew up in Castle Rock, Colorado, while my wife Brooke was raised in Littleton. As the youngest of nine children, I often found myself exploring the rugged foothills in solitude, captivated by the beauty and serenity of nature. That sense of freedom and wonder has never left me. Now, living and working amidst the forests of the Hudson Valley in New York, I find that being surrounded by nature is essential to my creative process. The landscapes of Colorado set a high bar for inspiration, and that connection to the natural world has profoundly shaped who I am today.”
Risk taking: how do you think about risk, what role has taking risks played in your life/career?
“Working for yourself, especially in the arts, requires an almost innate ability to embrace risk. In the early days of our career, that came naturally—it felt exciting, even liberating. But as life evolves, and you find yourself with more on the line—three kids, a mortgage—the stakes inevitably rise, and the weight of risk becomes harder to ignore. Yet, in those moments, it all circles back to how deeply you believe in what you’re creating. For me, the real challenge isn’t in taking the risk itself, but in maintaining the conviction that what you’re building is worth it. Risk has been a constant companion throughout my life and career, and while it has grown more complex with time, it remains a powerful force driving me forward.”
Why did you pursue an artistic or creative career?
“I started out studying mechanical engineering in college, making it through multivariable calculus before realizing it wasn’t the path for me. Interior design came into my life almost by chance, but the moment I found it, I knew I had uncovered something essential. I realized early on that if my work didn’t involve some form of artistic expression, it would feel empty and unfulfilling. For me, creativity isn’t just an option; it’s a fundamental part of who I am. I’ve learned that the only way I can find real satisfaction in my career is through a creative pursuit. It’s what keeps me inspired and engaged every day.”
What’s the end goal? Where do you want to be professionally by the end of your career?
“My ultimate goal is to keep doing what I love for as long as I possibly can. Right now, I’m deeply fulfilled by my work, and I want that sense of purpose to continue to evolve with me. At some point, I see myself returning to teaching, but not as a departure from my current path—rather, as a natural extension of it. In the end, I’m less focused on a specific destination and more intent on staying inspired, continuing to grow, and leaving a meaningful impact through everything I do.”
What was your thought process behind starting your own business?
“When I first entered the professional world, I had the privilege of working with the renowned designer Jamie Drake. Jamie was an extraordinary mentor, but I knew deep down that I wouldn’t find true fulfillment in simply executing someone else’s designs. Starting my own firm wasn’t just a career decision—it was about carving out a space where my creativity could truly thrive. Fortunately, Brooke has always been the driving force behind making that vision a reality, and her unwavering support gave me the courage to take that leap.”
Work life balance: how has your balance changed over time? How do you think about the balance?
“Brooke and I have a unique partnership—we’ve been married for 19 years and have worked side by side for most of that time. Given how intertwined our personal and professional lives are, the line between work and home life has always been blurred. Our business meetings often happen late at night after the kids are asleep, or squeezed in between school pickups. Our three children are our top priority, and everything else flows around them. We hustle hard to keep doing what we love, but balance is something that feels elusive right now. At this stage, it’s more about integration than separation. Ask us again in a few years, and we might have a better answer!”
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
See previous answers.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
While we grew up in Colorado, it’s been a hot minute since we’ve spent time there so we’re going to have to go back to some of the old classics…Garden of the Gods is a must see to take in the natural beauty of Colorado. Catching a show at red rocks never hurts and a trip to Casa Bonita for a heavy dose of nostalgia.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Our shoutout goes out to our dear friend and client, Erika Leifer. Erika believed in us and bought our works at a time when things seemed almost impossible.
Website: https://www.deananddahl.com
Instagram: @deananddahl
Image Credits
N/a