nora petersen published by daylon hicks
Nora Petersen is, through and through, a designer devoted to the smallest of details. Whether working independently or through Gambol alongside Francis Barrera, her practice reflects a deep sensitivity to materials, construction, and form. While Gambol Studio places emphasis on objects and furniture, the same principles extend seamlessly into her approach to garments and textiles, each piece considered, purposeful, and designed to endure.
Her garments demonstrate an acute awareness of fabric choice, texture, and drape, where subtle variations in material elevate everyday silhouettes. Rather than chasing novelty, her prioritizes longevity and versatility, allowing fabrics to age gracefully and garments to adapt across different spaces and lifestyles. The result is clothing that feels both quietly elegant and deeply functional, resisting the pull of trend cycles.
It is not only the physical qualities of the pieces that reveal her attention to detail, but also the way they tell a story through wear. Her work emphasizes the importance of objects and garments that integrate naturally into daily life, pieces meant to be touched, worn, and lived in rather than merely displayed.
“I make objects for anyone… I want to make objects that can fit in a variety of homes and don’t cater to a specific audience. That way they’ll be used longer and won’t grow boring when trends change. The same goes for my clothing. I love seeing my pieces being used in lots of different spaces,” she shared in an interview with LVL3, the volunteer artist-run exhibition space and digital publication based in Chicago, IL.
What makes her work, and Gambol distinct is this shared commitment to timeless design, thoughtful materiality, and universal wearability. By centering fabrics, garments, and objects that prioritize use, adaptability, and restraint, her practice creates pieces that remain relevant not because they demand attention, but because they quietly earn it over time.