Hans Galutera

Internationally acclaimed designer and educator Hans J. Galutera is the Founder and CEO of HG DesignWorks, a Manhattan-based interior architectural design studio known for creating environments that unite artistic vision, technical rigor, human wellbeing, and cultural relevance.

Licensed and registered in the State of New York, Galutera holds a Doctorate of Design from Solent University in Southampton, UK, with additional studies at Melbourne College of Decoration in Australia and the Fashion Institute of Technology, State University of New York. His multidisciplinary career spans luxury hospitality, maritime, high-end residential, workplace, exhibition, product, and experiential design.

In 2002, Galutera co-founded BG Studio International Inc., where his work helped shape landmark hospitality and maritime design projects across some of the world’s most recognized vessels. His cruise-sector portfolio includes design contributions to Cunard’s legendary Queen Elizabeth 2, one of the last great transatlantic ocean liners; Royal Caribbean International’s Enchantment of the Seas, including its ship-lengthening concept; major Royal Caribbean newbuild programs including Oasis of the Seas and Icon of the Seas; and the award-winning Penthouse Suite designs for Celebrity Cruises’ Reflection of the Seas.

Beyond practice, Galutera is a global advocate for design education, professional licensure, and human-centered environments. He serves on the New York State Education Department Interior Design Board, is Past President of the International Interior Design Association New York Chapter, Vice President of NY11+, Ambassador of Education for the Society of British and International Design, and an Advisory Board member of the International Council for Caring Communities, an NGO associated with the United Nations.

In 2025, Galutera founded DesignHUG, a research and education platform exploring how built environments shape health, memory, belonging, accessibility, and long-term human wellbeing. DesignHUG was publicly launched internationally at **Design Show Australia | Sydney 2026**, where Galutera presented on global design trends, participation, ageing, neurodiversity, and the future of inclusive environments.

A respected awards juror, speaker, educator, and contributor to international design discourse, Galutera has served as a judge for the Grand Prix INT Awards from 2024 through 2026. His work continues to bridge art, science, innovation, and social purpose, advancing design as a force for beauty, dignity, and meaningful human experience.