What's New What's Next 2026
On 17 September 2026, de Le Cuona welcomes leading voices from the worlds of interior design, publishing and luxury interiors for an engaging discussion exploring contemporary design perspectives from both sides of the Atlantic.
Hosted in the de Le Cuona showroom at the New York Design Center, What's New What's Next 26: Across the Atlantic brings together celebrated designers, creative leaders and tastemakers to discuss how regional influences, craftsmanship, heritage and evolving lifestyles continue to shape the future of interiors.
Moderated by David Nicholls, Director of Editorial Development at Homes & Gardens and author of A New English Style, the conversation will feature Bernie de Le Cuona, Founder and CEO of de Le Cuona, Francis Nicdao, Principal and Chief Creative Officer at Pembrooke & Ives, and Nicola Harding, founder of Nicola Harding & Co.
Together, the panel will explore the distinct yet interconnected design cultures of the UK and the United States, examining how notions of luxury, authenticity, craftsmanship and comfort continue to evolve in contemporary interiors.

David Nicholls
Moderator | Homes & Gardens Anthology
David Nicholls is Director of Editorial Development at Homes & Gardens and author of A New English Style (Hardie Grant, 2025). A respected voice in the design and interiors world, David works closely with leading brands, designers and publications to shape conversations around contemporary living. He divides his time between London and Pietrasanta in Tuscany, where he recently opened Almanac, a homeware and lifestyle store.

Bernie de Le Cuona
Founder & CEO | de Le Cuona
Renowned for pioneering luxury natural fabrics, Bernie de Le Cuona founded her eponymous brand with a commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship and sustainable luxury. Her distinctive vision has established de Le Cuona as a leading name in the international interiors industry, celebrated for innovative textiles crafted from the world's finest natural fibres.

Francis Nicdao
Principal & Chief Creative Officer | Pembrooke & Ives
As Principal and Chief Creative Officer at Pembrooke & Ives, Francis Nicdao oversees the creative direction of the acclaimed design studio while leading his own dedicated design team. During more than sixteen years with the company, he has played a pivotal role in its growth, directing exceptional residential interiors, renovation projects, lobby transformations and bespoke product collections.
Originally from the Philippines, Francis developed an early appreciation for craftsmanship through exposure to communities of skilled artisans specialising in furniture making, woodwork, caning and embroidery. After moving to New York, he further cultivated his passion for art and design through drawing, painting and formal artistic training.
Francis holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Pratt Institute and also studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen. His work is recognised for its sophisticated balance of artistry, craftsmanship and thoughtful design.

Nicola Harding
Founder & Creative Director | Nicola Harding & Co.
Known for creating layered, characterful interiors that blend beauty with practicality, Nicola Harding is one of Britain's most influential interior designers. Through Nicola Harding & Co., she has built an international reputation for thoughtfully designed homes that celebrate individuality, craftsmanship and timeless style.
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