At just 10 years old in Elkhorn, Nebraska, he loved exploring newly built homes, imagining each room's purpose and layout with nothing but bare frames to guide him. He had an innate sense for placing furniture and art where they best served the family's needs and aesthetics.

After graduating from the University of Iowa, Greg moved to Chicago, where his love for luxury retail and beautiful things was honed at Barneys on Oak Street. The original store, designed by Peter Marino, introduced him to exquisite furnishings, including those designed by Andree Putnam, and the world of design. In 1998, Greg relocated to New York, purchasing what he called “the Apartment that Manolo Blahnik built,” a chic apartment in a townhouse near Central Park. He decorated it with treasures from the 26th Street Flea Market and Jersey Shore Vintage stores, including Paavo Tynell chandelier that still graces his home today.

In 2001, as New York recovered from tragedy, Greg embarked on a successful 22-year career in mortgage banking, originating over $1 billion in loans. During this time, his love for finding unique items continued to grow, especially when he and his partner, Tom, bought a weekend home in East Hampton.

Fast-forward to winter 2021 in East Hampton amid the pandemic; Greg and Tom, along with their energetic Lakeland Terrier, Berkeley, decided to change course. They both left their successful careers to pursue their dreams, asking themselves, “Where next?” After a whirlwind decision process, Chicago was the answer.

They sold the East Hampton house, rented out their Manhattan loft, and returned to the Midwest.  Chicago felt right.  Tom now flourishes as an artist and Professor of Advertising at Columbia College, while Berkeley continues his favorite game of kickball, but now on the shores of Lake Michigan.  Greg, meanwhile, is following his heart back to design with his new venture, Gregory Socha Design, eager to share his love for beauty, comfort, and thoughtful living.