In Conversation with Virginia Nocharli
The designer and founder of Virginia Nocharli Design finds her footing
Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles: Describe your personal design style. How has it evolved since branching out on your own?
Virginia Nocharli: My design ethos is rooted in timeless, classic elements that never go out of style, layered with fresh details and a subtle nod to Southern sensibility. While that foundation has remained consistent, I’ve become more discerning in how I refine and personalize each space. At the heart of it all is a deep commitment to understanding our clients’ vision and bringing it to life—often in ways that exceed what they imagined.
AH&L: Your firm is gaining momentum. Was there a pivotal moment in your career that ignited your rise in the design industry?
VN: A defining point for me was being given the opportunity to design my clients’ dream homes and collaborate closely with some of the industry’s most talented architects and builders. Their vision and expertise have pushed me to continually elevate my work. I’m especially grateful for my clients who have welcomed fresh ideas while remaining rooted in tradition—their enthusiasm has helped shape the finished design that is creative, lasting, and truly meaningful to them.
AH&L: You have a true talent and passion for design. What do you enjoy most about your career?
VN: Creating beauty while making clients genuinely happy—there’s nothing more rewarding than that. I also grew up admiring a design mentor who balanced a career in interior design with motherhood, and I remember thinking that was the dream. Now, being able to pursue both is something I’m incredibly grateful for.
AH&L: You’ve learned from design greats like Melanie Millner. What’s one lesson that has stuck with you throughout your career?
VN: I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked at The Design Atelier, where I gained invaluable experience and learned alongside some of the industry’s best. One lesson that has stayed with me is the importance of truly listening—especially to contractors and skilled craftsmen on the jobsite. Their depth of construction knowledge is invaluable and ultimately allows us, as designers, to do our jobs more thoughtfully and effectively.
AH&L: What piece of advice would you give to a designer looking to make that leap and open their own business?
VN: You’ll never regret working hard to build something that’s truly your own. It’s important not to fall into the trap of comparison—whether to others or even to a future version of yourself. Instead, focus on finding joy in the process and embracing the uniqueness of what you’re creating right now.
AH&L: Inspiration looks different for everyone. What inspires you and your work?
VN: I’m endlessly inspired by textiles—a beautiful fabric palette can spark an entire design direction, whether it’s applied to a new piece or reimagining an antique frame. Travel also plays a significant role in shaping my perspective, both architecturally and through exposure to regional design elements unique to different parts of the world. I really draw from a wide range of influences, from classic interiors to fine art, and often it’s a single detail discovered along the way that can inspire a room, or even an entire home.
AH&L: How has Atlanta shaped your design approach?
VN: Atlanta has profoundly shaped my design approach through its world-class network of vendors and showrooms. Having access to such a rich range of both emerging and legacy resources allows me to source for any type of project with ease. No matter the direction, my work always carries a subtle nod to the Southern tradition rooted in Atlanta’s design culture.
AH&L: The sky is the limit for your career! Is there anything you have your sights set on or would love to dive into one day?
VN: The design world offers endless opportunities, and I’m excited to see where it leads me. Personally, it’s less about a specific type of project or location and more about the people I get to collaborate with along the way. That being said, designing a home in the Lowcountry would be an opportunity I would welcome any day—it’s always fun to dream a little.
AH&L: What do you hope people feel when they experience your work?
VN: I hope my work feels like an invitation into the composition—encouraging people to pause, take in the details, and imagine themselves living comfortably within the space. My goal is always to create homes that are thoughtfully designed and genuinely livable.
A Day in the Life
Morning to night with Virginia Nocharli
6 A.M. I like to start the day before my son wakes up, carving out a little quiet time to ease into the morning before everything gets moving.
9 A.M. I begin the workday in my home office responding to emails, refining a design presentation, or connecting with my team to keep projects moving forward.
10:30 a.m. A trip to ADAC is often on the agenda—sourcing samples, handling project details, and catching up with showroom reps on the new happenings at the design center.
12 P.M. Lunch is either at home or out with the team, often with little ones in tow, which keeps things both productive and lively.
1 P.M. Afternoons are typically spent in client meetings or on-site visits, walking through the next steps of a build or renovation, and ensuring every detail is coming together as planned.
4 P.M. I wrap up the workday and shift into family time by playing with my son and preparing dinner for the evening.
7 P.M. Evenings are for unwinding with my husband (and business advisor). We talk through our days, share ideas for our family and business, and of course, share a few laughs over whatever new phase or favorite thing our son is into at the moment.
This is the fifth installment of AH&L’s Futures of Design. To learn more about the class of 2026, visit atlantahomesmag.com/futures-legends.
