About

Finding Inspiration in the outdoors

Biophilia is a concept that details human tendency and affiliation with nature, it literally translates to love of life. Case studies have shown that incorporating biophilic design elements can result in several emotional, mental and even physical benefits for the people and animals that occupy the space.

My work is heavily inspired by Wabi Sabi, a traditional Japanese aesthetic that showcases the imperfections and organized chaos that is present in nature. You'll notice in my work that I strive to highlight a pieces imperfections.

My goal is to help people and companies to bring the outside inside as a way to ground ourselves and reconnect with nature. Studies have shown that incorporating natural colors, textures, and patterns can help ease our stress and increase our productivity and creativity.

Whether it be building a dining room table or redesigning a corporate office space, Chiqui has you covered.

Who was Chiqui?

Chiqui, was the nickname of my grand uncle, Constantine, who emigrated from Cuba to the States for a better life. He was like a father to me and my sister. When his dimentia had worsened, he’d confuse me for my sister, but he always asked if we were working hard. He is why I do this. For Chiqui, by Chiqui. He is with me in every pursuit.

the designer & builder

My name is Gabi and I am the builder and designer of Chiqui (Chee-kee) Wood Working, a biophilic design and build company. I am a self-taught wood worker and biophilic artist based in Flemington, NJ where I live with my husband Jay, our son, Dean, and our dogs. I was proudly born and raised in Brooklyn, NY.

I have a Bachelors of Environmental Engineering and later on received my MBA in Project Management.

In high school, I was fortunate to participate in a environmental program at the Cooper Union in Manhattan, New York. My capstone group project involved designing and costing a self-sustaining home on a lakefront property in Upstate New York utilizing solar, wind and hydro energy. This project sparked my interest in curating nature inspired spaces.

My goal is to thin the veil between the outdoors and the indoors and it is now even more important as we raise our son in what can feel like, an isolated world.