Trevor Fulmer of South Boston on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Trevor Fulmer and have shared our conversation below.

Trevor, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Have you ever been glad you didn’t act fast?
There was a time when I wished I had started my interior design business sooner. Looking back, though, I realize that waiting was essential. The timing, the experiences, and the path I followed all prepared me to build the kind of business I have today.

Before launching my firm, I spent 13+ years in the advertising industry as a graphic designer, art director, and creative director. That career gave me invaluable skills and perspective. It taught me how to think creatively, develop visual patterns, and understand how design communicates at a deeper level. Those lessons now inform my interiors and even influenced the creation of my own product collections.

Advertising also gave me the tools to market my business effectively, build a brand, and foster meaningful relationships. It prepared me to network with confidence, manage teams, juggle multiple projects at once, and understand the importance of profit margins and economics. Just as importantly, it gave me time to mature, grow, and develop resilience.

Had I acted too quickly and skipped those years of growth, I wouldn’t have the same foundation that supports my design practice today. I’m glad I didn’t rush, because the timing of my journey allowed me to step into the interior design industry fully prepared to succeed.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Trevor Fulmer and I am the Principal of Trevor Fulmer Design, a high-end, award-winning, nationally-published Boston based interior design studio that creates modern client-focused interiors. My team and I take a thoughtful and personalized approach to every space, meticulously curating a holistic and sensory rich experience.

My Graphic Interiors™ and livable modern aesthetic pair bold geometric shapes with sculptural silhouettes. I believe in the power of collaboration, and my design process is rooted in building trust, growing relationships, and exceeding expectations. I love partnering with clients, solving their unique needs, and helping their authentic selves shine through. Over the years, many of my clients have become friends, which I consider one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

“Every space should have a graphic sensibility. Simple shapes, circles, triangles, and squares, are the foundation of every successful design. By applying core design principles with intention, you create hierarchy and visual interest.”

I was named a “One to Watch” by Modern Luxury Interiors and have received multiple IFDA and BRAGB PRISM awards. I am also proud to be an Architectural Digest-approved designer. In addition to my design accolades, I am a Cannes Lions-winning creative director, art director, and photographer. My work has been featured in publications including Architectural Digest, Aspire, Ocean Home, New England Home, The Boston Globe, The Globe Magazine, Modern Luxury Interiors, Boston Common Magazine, Boston Home, Designers Today, Boston Spirit, and The Knot.

Outside of design, I enjoy Vespa rides, high-energy fitness classes, vegetarian tasting menus, remote beaches, and hearty laughs.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
When I think about who taught me the most about work, the answer is clear: my parents. They were entrepreneurs through and through, building their businesses with grit, focus, and the kind of commitment that didn’t waver when obstacles appeared. I grew up watching them work long hours, stay disciplined, and approach every challenge with determination. Quitting was never an option. Setbacks were simply opportunities to try a different way forward.

That example shaped how I view my own career. Their focus and dedication instilled in me the belief that success isn’t handed to you, it’s built through persistence and hard work. They showed me the value of staying committed to your vision, even when it’s difficult, and of seeking out mentors and guidance along the way. Most importantly, they taught me to trust in myself and to keep pushing until the goal is achieved.

When I started my interior design business in 2019, I leaned heavily on those lessons. Building something from the ground up requires resilience and the ability to stay motivated when things get tough. Their example gave me not only the confidence to pursue entrepreneurship, but also the drive to never give up.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I don’t give fear the power to stop me. That doesn’t mean I don’t feel it. Like anyone, I’ve had moments of uncertainty or hesitation, but I’ve always treated fear as something to move through, not a wall to keep me from moving forward.

When I launched my interior design business, there were countless unknowns. I had never worked for another interior designer and I had much to learn. I had a vision. Fear could have easily kept me from taking the leap, but instead I used it as a motivator. If it feels uncomfortable, it usually means growth is on the other side.

For me, fear has never been the obstacle. Staying still would be. I’ve learned to channel nervous energy into focus, preparation, and commitment. Every step forward, especially the ones that feel daunting, reinforces my belief that progress comes from moving past fear, not giving into it.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Life is too short not to be authentic. Transparency and trust are two of the founding principles of my business. If I don’t convey that in a personal or professional sense, then I need to reassess. Authenticity is the foundation for meaningful relationships with clients, colleagues, and friends alike. People can sense when someone is genuine, and that honesty builds respect and loyalty. I believe the best design, and the best business, comes from showing up fully as yourself. The public version of me is the real me, because the work I do and the way I live are both grounded in the same values of honesty, creativity, and connection.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m surrounded by family and friends—the people who ground me and remind me of what truly matters. I also find peace in nature, whether it’s the calm of the beach, the quiet of the forest, or simply being outdoors where life feels a little slower and more connected. After all, nature is the inspiration for both of my product lines: Natural Principles wallcoverings and Foundations rugs.

There’s also a unique sense of peace I experience through my work. When a client sees their home for the first time and tells me it brings them joy, comfort, and a reflection of how they want to live. That moment fills me with both peace and accomplishment.

Beyond places and achievements, I find peace in laughter, in kindness, and in the relationships that enrich my life. Deep conversations, moments of connection, and the belief in something greater than myself all remind me that peace isn’t just a destination, it’s a daily outlook. At the heart of it all, I find peace in the hope that the future will be filled with love, joy, and possibility.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://trevorfulmerdesign.com
• Instagram: trevorfulmerdesign
• Linkedin: trevorfulmerdesign
• Facebook: tfinteriordesign
• Other: Houzz: trevorfulmerdesign
  Pinterest: trevorfulmerdesign

Image Credits
Stairwell image: Venjhamin Reyes
Sauna Image: Venjhamin Reyes
Dining room image: Jared Kuzia
Archway image: Jared Kuzia
Bedroom image: Jared Kuzia
Living room image: Sean Litchfield
Headshot: Tonya Carr