Jean Lin: The Rule Breaker Behind Colony’s Game-Changing Co-op Inspired Model

Fernando Mastrangelo interviews Jean Lin, founder of Colony Gallery in New York, about her incredible journey from Hurricane Sandy relief work to creating a groundbreaking gallery that supports independent designers. Jean reveals the details behind Colony’s co-op inspired model — affordable monthly fees paired with a low 15% commission — and why she’s stayed committed to this approach for over 12 years. The conversation covers the challenges of starting with almost no money, building community in the 2010s NYC design boom, launching an 8-month artist residency/incubator program, expanding into interior design projects, and navigating slow markets and rising costs. They also discuss Jean’s book “What We Keep,” which shifts focus from objects to the personal stories of collectors, makers, and the emotional connection to design. Perfect for designers, makers, gallerists, and creatives who want real talk about building a sustainable career in the design world. **Timestamps:** 00:00 - Introduction 01:45 - Hurricane Sandy Origin Story 05:48 - 2010s NYC Design Scene 09:49 - First Lease & Personal Risks 13:24 - Finding the Space & Early Struggles 16:44 - Colony’s Co-op Inspired Business Model 26:38 - Starting Interiors & Staging 30:00 - Current Gallery Operations (24 Designers) 35:15 - The Residency Program Explained 41:10 - Trends, Cycles & Timeless Design 44:46 - Market Challenges & Moving Spaces 46:39 - “What We Keep” Book & Collecting 55:58 - 5-Year Vision for Colony 59:00 - Closing Thoughts Follow Colony Gallery and Jean Lin for more inspiration in the world of collectible and contemporary design.