November Influencer: Shai DeLuca

Interior designer, advocate, and design expert Shai DeLuca shares his holiday inspirations and style in this exclusive Q&A. Known for his modern contemporary aesthetic and impactful use of social media, Shai discusses how he balances creating beautiful spaces with advocating for issues close to his heart. Dive into his thoughts on holiday décor trends, meaningful gifting and how he celebrates Hanukkah and Christmas in his uniquely blended household. —Noa Nichol

 Hi Shai! Tell us a bit about yourself to start.

I’m a husband, son, godfather, dog parent, uncle and more. I’m Jewish. I’m an Israeli Canadian. I am an interior designer by trade with a bachelor’s in interior design from the Art Institute. I have been an on-air design expert on national shows like The Morning Show on Global since 2011, and I have passion for making design accessible for viewers. 

How do you use your platform to impact those who follow you?

Before 2014 I used my platform solely for design and for “Instagrammable moments”. After 2014, I realized I had a responsibility to use my platform not only for things that I found enjoyable, but to discuss issues that were important to me and my community. That’s when I began my advocacy journey and started speaking out at college campuses the world over against antisemitism and anti-Zionism. Since October 7, 2023, I have almost exclusively dedicated my platform to this fight. 

What’s your personal aesthetic? 

My aesthetic is modern contemporary leaning to minimalism. My mantra is: life is in the details, style accordingly. 

 Oh Hanukkah! Are you a holiday junkie?

Yes! As a designer, there is no more-beautiful time of the year than the holidays, when entire cities are dressed in lights and decorations. At home, I love the simplicity of the chanukiah along with a well-coordinated and designed tree for my husband, who celebrates Christmas. 

How will you be spending the holidays this year?

Normally we spend the holidays in Mexico City with my husband’s family. This year, we will be spending them with mine, here in Toronto. 

Any expert holiday décor tips? 

Holiday décor can be kitschy. To avoid that, choose one colour story and let that be the base of your entire holiday look. For example, this year, the trends in holiday décor are greens, whites and golds. Use these as your inspiration. Keep collectibles to a minimum and concentrate on the tree lights and garland. If you are celebrating Hanukkah, use a statement chanukiah. Less is more. 

What’s your fave type of gift to give … and do you give back in any way? 

My favourite type of gift to give is something usable. I want them to think back to that special moment whenever they use it. Giving back is part of who I am. I’ve been part of numerous charitable design projects including women’s shelters, pediatric centres, religious centres, community kitchens … I believe in using my abilities as an interior designer to make people’s lives better. 

Wish time: what is at the very top of your personal gift list?

I would like to see peace at home in Israel. That to me is the most important thing.