A Day in the Life of Interior Designer Martin Brudnizki

Eddie Mickenberg, an interior design business owner, shares her journey and insights into the industry. With a degree in interior design obtained 15 years ago, Mickenberg initially had no intention of owning her own business, expecting to work for established firms throughout her career. However, after years of working for luxury residential remodel and design firms, she developed a deep passion for the creative industry. Her experience working for others provided valuable business insights, allowing her to discern what she wanted and didn't want for her own professional life. The path was challenging, filled with obstacles that could have deterred her, yet her commitment to interior design remained steadfast. The decision to branch out independently in 2020 was a significant and daunting step, as it meant financial reliance solely on herself, a shift from the safety net of working for a firm. Mickenberg observed a considerable difference in responsibility between being an interior designer and owning an interior design business. Her motivation stemmed from a desire to take full credit for her designs, which necessitated establishing her own firm. This move, initiated during the reflective period of 2020, involved taking a significant risk that ultimately proved to be one of her best decisions. Mickenberg's interior design business focuses on creating environments that tell a story and evoke a feeling, alongside addressing functional aspects. She notes that some designers prioritize functionality over visual aesthetics, a different approach from her own. Her journey has been exciting yet challenging, and she embraces the discomfort of aiming for higher marks and taking calculated risks. Having faced numerous rejections and closed doors, she developed resilience, adopting a mindset of perseverance. A key philosophy is that excessive planning can prevent action, leading her to trust herself and allow things to unfold organically, consistently building her business as she progresses. Effective communication, boundary-setting for self-protection, and empathy are also highlighted as crucial components of her professional approach. When asked about recommendations for a visitor to Los Angeles, Mickenberg suggests diverse options depending on the friend's preferences. For dining, she recommends Bacari in Silverlake or The Proper Hotel Rooftop restaurant in Santa Monica for their good food and atmosphere. For friends interested in the entertainment industry, she proposes visits to WB Studios or live tapings of shows like The Voice or The Price Is Right. For family with children, Santa Monica and The Grove are recommended during the weekdays to avoid traffic and crowds. She emphasizes her adaptability and her extensive list of curated places in Los Angeles, allowing her to tailor recommendations based on individual preferences and the desired vibe. She advises visiting during the week to optimize the experience and avoid weekend congestion. Mickenberg attributes her success and perseverance to her friends and family, who have supported her since her move from San Diego to pursue her dreams. She also credits the business owners she worked for over the years as mentors, who provided diverse business styles, character lessons, and examples of grit. These experiences, both positive and negative, served as a learning ground, enabling her to develop a business structure and style that aligns with her values. She views countless mistakes and wins as integral to her growth, emphasizing that her faith in herself was the ultimate driver in continuing to pursue her passion despite challenges. Photographer Andrew Bui is credited for the images in the article. Her website is www.eddiemickenberg.com and her Instagram handle is emickenberg. #InteriorDesign #BusinessOwner #EntrepreneurshipJourney #CreativeIndustry #LuxuryResidentialDesign #LosAngeles #CareerDevelopment #SmallBusiness

This page provides a comprehensive job board specifically for the interior design industry, hosted by Business of Home. It features a wide array of job opportunities across various roles and experience levels, from entry-level design positions to senior leadership and specialized roles such as architectural drafters and project managers. The jobs are primarily for full-time positions, but part-time, freelance, and internship opportunities are also listed. The platform caters to both job seekers and employers, offering functionalities to filter job listings by location, category, employment type, and compensation. The job board currently displays numerous openings from various design firms and companies. For instance, WECSELMAN DESIGN in Miami is seeking an Interior Designer for high-end residential projects, emphasizing a candidate with strong design sensibility and a curated eye. Jeremiah Brent Design in New York is looking for a Senior Design Documentation Specialist on a contract basis for a historic estate renovation, as well as a Senior Designer specializing in Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E;) for the same project. Mia Todd Studio, also in New York, is hiring a Designer/Senior Designer to lead high-end residential projects from concept to installation. Downey, a boutique residential design firm in New York City, is seeking a Senior Interior Designer with a strong background in architectural design and project management. Bruce Fox Design in Chicago is searching for a Senior Interior Designer with a mature and creative approach to innovative projects. Beyond traditional interior design roles, the board also lists specialized positions. CarbonShack is looking for a Multi-Line Sales Representative for sustainable designer fabrics, Sunthreads, with a commission-based compensation structure and performance bonuses. Marc Phillips Decorative Rugs in Los Angeles has an opening for a Sales Account Manager to cultivate relationships with designers, architects, and trade professionals. Studio Michael Ellison in New York requires a Senior Designer with a passion for luxury interior design and experience in private residential projects. Chused & Co. in Brooklyn is seeking a Senior Interior Designer/Project Manager to lead residential projects, focusing on architectural knowledge and technical drawing ability. Jennifer Messina Interiors in Mill Valley, CA, is hiring an Interior Design Project Manager to oversee all phases of projects, balancing creative vision with logistical precision. Ashli Mizell Inc. in Philadelphia is looking for a Senior Interior Designer for high-end residential projects across the Northeast, coastal Florida, and the Northern Rockies. Jerry Pair in Atlanta needs a Marketing Specialist to engage in various marketing facets within the luxury interior design industry, including e-commerce management and content creation. Julie Hillman Design, an AD100 firm in New York, is seeking an experienced Interior Architect for high-end residential projects. Studio MRS, an Elle Décor A-List firm in New York, is looking for a full-time Interior Architectural Drafter. The platform also provides resources for users, such as a job FAQ section and a dedicated page for employers to submit job postings. Featured jobs are highlighted, indicating potentially urgent or high-profile opportunities. Additionally, there is a classifieds section for other related services, such as office space rentals for designers. The overall structure of the page is designed to efficiently connect interior design professionals with relevant employment opportunities and industry resources. #InteriorDesignJobs #DesignCareers #CreativeIndustry #ProjectManagement #ArchitecturalDesign #SalesAndMarketing #ResidentialDesign #LuxuryDesign

Tom Cox, co-founder of HÁM Interiors, offers a tour of his London home, showcasing the design principles that define his family-run studio. HÁM Interiors, established in 2011 by Nick, Pamela, and Tom Cox, is recognized for its blend of timeless and contemporary design, focusing on creating comfortable and high-quality spaces for busy family lives. This article provides insights into Cox's personal design choices and the renovation process of his Victorian mansion block apartment. The property, a Victorian mansion block, was chosen for its location between two parks and its strong architecture, offering great views and abundant natural light. Despite being run down, it possessed salvageable features. The renovation involved a complete makeover, with a key modification being the introduction of a large, glazed partition between the kitchen and living room to open up the space. The apartment now includes two bathrooms and two bedrooms, with one bedroom repurposed as a dressing room, maximizing functionality within the existing structure. Cox's design approach emphasizes a bold color palette, leveraging the apartment's ample natural light. The living room features Farrow & Ball's 'Pigeon,' while the bedroom adopts a lighter but similarly toned 'Hardwick White.' The kitchen uses Dulux's 'Brilliant White' for walls, complemented by darker greens like Farrow & Ball's 'Card Room Green' for cabinetry, and an antique dresser to unify the aesthetic. This strategic use of color creates a distinct atmosphere in each area while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout the apartment. The kitchen, a central element of HÁM Interiors' business, was personally designed and installed by Cox's in-house team. A notable feature is the antique drapers table serving as an island, customized with antique castors for added height and a custom unlacquered brass sheet inlay for practicality and an edgy look. Lighting above the island was sourced from an antiques fair, and the tiles have a simple matte glazed finish. Cox expresses a preference for Liebherr fridges for their utilitarian design, Lacanche cookers for their colors and metal finishes, and Waterworks for kitchen taps, specifically the RW Atlas range. For china, Miranda Berrow mugs and Laguiole cutlery are highlighted. Artwork plays a significant role in Cox's home. He is an avid collector, sourcing pieces during his travels and through his design work, often frequenting antique shops and flea markets. HÁM Interiors also launched an online store for curated artwork. Sidney Teodoruk's early work is a personal favorite. Cox emphasizes the importance of framing, using a mix of antique and contemporary styles to create an eclectic feel. Picture lights and ceiling-mounted directional spotlights are strategically used to illuminate and enhance the details and colors of the paintings. The living room's design incorporates reclaimed glazed panels from a shop front, adapted and hand-painted in a distressed finish to preserve their character and create a sense of expanded space. The ceiling light is from Circa Lighting, available through HÁM Interiors' online store. The dining table combines a custom-made, painted base with an old farmhouse top. Furnishings include an antique armoire, serving as a bookcase and whisky cabinet, and an antique chest of drawers from Brownrigg. Fabric choices for the sofa are William Yeoward, while the window seat uses Christopher Farr fabric, and Fermoie cushions add varied textures and patterns. The bedroom and en suite bathroom are designed as a cool, calm, and connected space. High ceilings allowed for a three-quarter height wall between the two areas, incorporating an open archway instead of a door. This design choice maximizes light and space in the small bathroom and allows views of the reclaimed vanity and antique mirror from the bedroom. Tongue and groove detailing adds subtle texture in the bathroom, with a striking contrast between the shower tiles and the marble sink with reclaimed vanity. The bed from Soho Home features ticking fabric, reflecting a core element of HÁM Interiors' aesthetic. Lighting includes two globe lanterns from JAMB. Artworks in the bedroom include a large painting by British artist Maurice Cockerill, a trumpet piece by David Shrigley, and a reclaimed sign from Somerset. In the dressing room, joinery extends to the ceiling with integrated skirting details, painted in the same color as the walls, windows, and ceiling to create a unified and spacious feel. This room also serves as a display area for Cox's growing art collection, reflecting the studio's philosophy of incorporating art seamlessly into interior design. The article concludes by inviting readers to explore Studio HÁM's online shop and HÁM Interiors' studio for further design inspiration and services. #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #VictorianArchitecture #ColorPalette #KitchenDesign #ArtCollection #LivingRoom #BedroomDesign #BathroomDesign #HÁMInteriors

The increasing prevalence of remote work has led to a blurring of lines between professional and personal life, with an estimated 32.6 million Americans expected to be remote workers by 2025. While creating a workspace at home might seem practical, renowned interior designer David Bromstad advises against setting up a home office in the bedroom. He asserts that the bedroom should remain a sanctuary for rest and relaxation, rather than a hub of work-related stress. Bromstad believes that waking up to a work environment can induce stress, impacting one's ability to unwind and sleep. The psychological implications of combining work and rest spaces are significant. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that associating the bedroom with work can elevate stress levels and hinder relaxation, making it difficult to fall asleep. Beyond psychology, the aesthetic clash is also a concern. Office items such as printers, cords, and files, often utilitarian in nature, can disrupt the serene decor typically found in a bedroom. Furthermore, Feng Shui principles align with Bromstad's view, indicating that a desk in the bedroom introduces disruptive Yang energy of work and activity into a space meant for calming Yin energy and rest, thereby creating an energetic imbalance. Bromstad, featured on HGTV's "My Lottery Dream Home," consistently advocates for a separate ergonomic office nook, even if it's a small division outside the main bedroom. He highlights that this physical separation is crucial for maintaining work-life boundaries, preventing the feeling of constantly being at work, and minimizing interruptions from other household members. Without a distinct workspace, it becomes challenging to mentally transition from work to personal life. However, acknowledging that financial or space constraints might necessitate a bedroom office for many, Bromstad encourages creative solutions. He suggests converting a closet into a compact office or using a room divider to delineate separate zones within the bedroom. From a Feng Shui perspective, positioning a desk in a "commanding position" where one can see the bedroom door and clearly dividing the room into work and rest areas can help mitigate the negative impacts. Implementing such strategies allows for a degree of separation, preserving the bedroom's tranquil purpose while still enabling productivity. This approach supports a healthier work-life balance and aligns with Bromstad's vision for spaces that are functional, purposeful, and contribute to overall well-being. #HomeOffice #BedroomDesign #DavidBromstad #WorkLifeBalance #InteriorDesignTips #RemoteWork #FengShui #SpacePlanning

The Hans & Werner Kantine, a restaurant project located on the modernist Siemensdam campus in Berlin, Germany, was completed in 2021 through a collaboration between van Baal interior design and Tomasz Budnicki. The project, spanning 480 square meters, involved transforming the ground floor of an old factory building into a vibrant dining space. The design approach focused on creating a "canvas for human interaction" rather than a self-contained space, blending the architectural heritage of the modernist campus with the contemporary character of Berlin's new office district. Yves Sucksdorff provided the photography for the project, and Forbo was a key manufacturer. The restaurant's interior emphasizes an open and flexible layout to foster various forms of social interaction among its patrons. The designers aimed to create a welcoming and dynamic environment suitable for both casual dining and more structured gatherings. The choice of materials, lighting, and furniture contributes to this atmosphere, ensuring functionality while maintaining an aesthetic connection to the building's industrial past. The 480 m² area allowed for distinct zones within the restaurant, accommodating different dining experiences and traffic flows. The design considerations extended beyond mere aesthetics to the practical aspects of a high-traffic restaurant environment. Key design elements include the strategic use of natural light, which filters through large windows, enhancing the sense of openness and connecting the interior with its surroundings. Artificial lighting is integrated to complement the natural light, ensuring a comfortable ambiance throughout the day and evening. The furniture selection features a mix of communal tables and smaller, more intimate seating arrangements, providing versatility for various group sizes and preferences. The color palette and finishes were chosen to reflect a modern yet timeless appeal, harmonizing with the existing architectural features of the factory building. The project demonstrates how an adaptive reuse approach can breathe new life into historical structures, transforming them into functional and aesthetically pleasing contemporary spaces. The collaboration between van Baal interior design and Tomasz Budnicki was central to achieving this balance, bringing together expertise in interior aesthetics and architectural principles. The Hans & Werner Kantine serves as a model for integrating new functions into old buildings while respecting and enhancing their inherent character. Its location within a prominent modernist campus further underscores its role in the evolving urban landscape of Berlin, offering a contemporary social hub within a historically significant context. The design process involved a detailed assessment of the existing factory structure, identifying opportunities to preserve its industrial charm while incorporating modern amenities and design trends. The goal was to create a space that feels both historic and current, inviting and efficient. This balance is crucial for a restaurant, which must cater to the practical needs of service and operation, as well as the experiential desires of its customers. The successful execution of the Hans & Werner Kantine highlights the potential for interior design to act as a catalyst for community and interaction within urban environments, showcasing a thoughtful interplay between past and present. #HospitalityArchitecture #RestaurantDesign #BerlinArchitecture #InteriorDesign #AdaptiveReuse #ModernistCampus #UrbanRenewal #ArchitecturalHeritage #TomaszBudnicki

The article offers an intimate look into the daily life and professional philosophy of renowned interior designer Stephen Sills. Originally from Oklahoma, Sills divides his time between his primary residence and studio in New York City and his country home in Bedford, Westchester. His work schedule in New York City is highly dynamic, involving interactions with clients, visits to artisans in Queens and Brooklyn, and studio meetings. He emphasizes the detail-oriented nature of his firm's work, where much is handmade, requiring constant oversight of vendors to ensure designs are executed correctly. Sills highlights the value of his long-standing team, some of whom have been with him for nearly 25 years, indicating a close-knit and efficient operation. He maintains strong relationships with his clients, focusing on understanding their expectations and desired living atmospheres to achieve optimal results. Travel, particularly to Europe, serves as a significant source of inspiration for Sills. He mentions his fondness for Paris and London, having previously worked on The Connaught Hotel, and has recently explored destinations like Torino, Italy. These trips provide an opportunity to slow down from the fast pace of New York and discover new products and design concepts. Beyond his professional life, Sills dedicates considerable time to personal pursuits. Gardening has been a passion for the past 15 years, involving the design and planting of his extensive garden in Bedford. He collaborates with a gardener who has assisted him for two decades, underscoring his appreciation for skilled support. Another creative outlet for Sills is painting, primarily of objects, which he finds therapeutic and complementary to his design work. This activity allows him to experiment with compositions and colors without additional pressure. In terms of personal style, Sills prefers a casual aesthetic, often wearing Brunello Cucinelli or jeans and a cashmere sweater when not meeting clients. However, he makes an effort to dress more formally with a jacket or tie for client engagements, reflecting his respect for traditional elegance while adapting to modern comfort. He values quality clothing and occasionally has shirts custom-made in Paris, which he pairs with casual attire. Sills also unwinds by watching Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, finding solace in engaging narratives. He particularly enjoys documentaries, citing the Tina Turner documentary as a recent favorite due to his personal friendship with the singer and admiration for her resilience and talent. Looking ahead, Sills is preparing for the release of his third book, which will feature his most recent, unpublished projects from the past nine years. The book aims to be instructional, detailing his design process and work methodology. Initially planned for an earlier release, it has been postponed to May to allow for a book tour. A key piece of advice he offers is the importance of continuous learning, recognizing that both successes and failures contribute to personal and professional growth, especially in understanding what one does not want to pursue in life. #InteriorDesign #StephenSills #LuxuryLifestyle #NewYorkDesign #TravelInspiration #Gardening #ArtAndAntiques #DesignPhilosophy

The article offers a detailed look into the professional life of Kirsty Vance, Associate Director of Interior Design at I-AM, an experience design agency. Vance's role is characterized by its dynamic nature, covering diverse projects in hospitality, food and drink, and retail banking, with notable clients such as Hedinn Bar & Kitchen in Iceland, KFC, and Sides Restaurant. She emphasizes that there is no typical day in her profession due to the variety of tasks involved, from preparing workshop materials and building 3D models for concept visuals to managing technical details for drawing packs. Her work is significantly influenced by hybrid working arrangements, allowing focused individual work from home and collaborative team sessions at the Shoreditch studio, where designers, directors, and account managers converge to review ideas and create. The scope of her involvement spans the entire design process, ensuring a constant influx of varied challenges. Vance shares her pride in two particular projects. The first is a hotel experience inspired by creator culture, which she found fascinating for its creative brief that encouraged pushing boundaries and incorporating humor through a 'parody' theme. The second is the Hedinn Bar & Kitchen in Reykjavik, Iceland, where the design concept was directly informed by the site's history as a steel factory and the dramatic Icelandic landscape. She describes translating the contrast of 'man versus nature' into organic forms and radiating chainmail drapes, creating a breathtaking dining experience. Visiting the completed space after the global pandemic was a particularly special moment for her. A significant challenge Vance discusses is imposter syndrome, a common struggle among professionals. She highlights that a genuine belief in one's work can cultivate confidence, which clients recognize as passion and expert energy, ultimately adding value to projects. Her early career provided crucial exposure to multidisciplinary studio environments, where she collaborated with graphic designers, gaining insights into creating comprehensive 'brand worlds'—a concept that has since become second nature to her. Vance defines an on-brand space by its ability to match a brand's energy and guide customer experiences subtly. She stresses that effective branding in physical spaces goes beyond overt messaging, focusing instead on sensory details like material textures, ambient sounds, and interaction dynamics, which collectively trigger emotional responses and create memorable narratives. Customer journeys are crucial for identifying potential issues and opportunities for enhancement, and these journeys must be tested against customer missions to ensure not only fulfillment but also enhancement, often aligning with digital touchpoints. I-AM employs various in-house tools for preliminary project stages, including Customer Journey workshops for idea exploration, Brand Key workshops for defining brand positioning and expression, and the application of Brand Archetypes to shape tone of voice and behavior. A core aspect of their methodology is creating detailed customer profiles to inform 'People Inspired Experiences.' When faced with creative blocks, Vance turns to unconventional sources like articles, stories, and folklore for inspiration, finding that unusual references often spark new ideas. Her dream project involves community-based initiatives, as explored in I-AM's 'Life-Led trends report,' aiming to create spaces that are meaningful and positively impact collective well-being. Her advice to her younger self would be to continuously ask questions and share ideas, as discussions are instrumental in leading to innovative outcomes. #InteriorDesign #BrandExperience #CreativeProcess #ExperientialDesign #CustomerJourney #ImposterSyndrome #DesignPhilosophy #CareerAdvice #CommunityProjects

The author, an ELLE DECOR A-List designer, details her recent experience renovating and extending her London apartment. She notes that while designers' own homes often turn out to be their best work due to the absence of client-imposed visual compromises, designing for oneself can present its own set of challenges. Initially exciting, the project often gets pushed aside in favor of client work, leading to the 'cobbler-with-no-shoes' phenomenon. The collaboration aspect, crucial in client projects, is largely missing when working on one's own space, sometimes leading to a sense of loneliness as the only push-and-pull comes from one's own team, who may be reluctant to offer contradictory opinions. Despite these challenges, the author appreciated the flexibility and speed with which decisions could be made and adjusted. Design changes could be implemented swiftly, or even reversed, without the need for multiple client meetings, presentations, or extensive persuasion. This freedom allowed for bold choices that might be difficult to sell to a client, such as applying tobacco linen to north-facing sitting room walls or painting window frames and trim in a unique 'Toad' green. These bold design elements, while adding to the expense and timeline, ultimately created a high-impact, calming atmosphere, evoking a country feel for guests. She draws a parallel to Albert Hadley, who famously used his own apartment as a design laboratory, experimenting with unique elements like lacquered chocolate-syrup-colored walls and ceilings. This illustrates how designers' personal spaces become arenas for unconstrained creativity and experimentation, free from the pressure of client approval. When making daring design choices for her own home, the author experiences less anxiety about the outcome, knowing she can live with and adjust the results if necessary. This contrasts with client projects, where bold decisions carry significant financial implications or risk a loss of trust if initial iterations don't meet expectations, potentially stifling creativity. The article also touches on the differing nature of budgets when designing for oneself versus for clients. While client budgets always have boundaries, personal projects offer a different spirit of allocation. The author found value in things that might be considered extravagant for a client, such as a four-poster bed requiring 90 yards of fabric, which she expresses no regret for, despite it being a budget-buster. This highlights the personal satisfaction derived from investing in specific design elements for one's own enjoyment. Ultimately, the author concludes that the process of designing her own home, despite its inherent 'pain,' was a rewarding experience, allowing for a level of creative freedom and personal expression that is often tempered in client-focused work. The outcomes, particularly the bold and distinctive design choices, have brought significant personal satisfaction and validation, reaffirming the unique benefits and challenges of being one's own design client. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #DesignerLife #LondonApartment #CreativeFreedom #BudgetManagement #PersonalStyle #DesignChallenges

Brittny Button, an interior designer and real estate investor, discusses her journey in establishing her own business and her unique design philosophy. Her passion for building, architecture, and design naturally led her to open an interior design firm, where she focuses on transforming spaces. Additionally, she realized a long-held dream by opening Button Atelier, a shop within the Agoura Antique Mart. This venture allows her to showcase and sell her collection of vintage furniture, many of which have been revitalized with new upholstery, alongside a curated selection of decorative accessories. Button's distinctive design aesthetic is deeply rooted in Old World European Classicism, with a particular fondness for Spanish architecture and Art Deco-inspired furniture. Her past projects have garnered significant recognition, being featured in prominent publications such as Architectural Digest, Vogue Living, Homes & Gardens, and Living etc. This acclaim underscores her ability to create aesthetically pleasing and functional living environments. A notable challenge she identifies in her work is the difficulty of assembling a cohesive on-site team, including project managers, contractors, and subcontractors, who fully grasp and align with her design vision. She emphasizes the importance of shared understanding, even suggesting that it is better to disengage from a project if the team is not in sync, to ensure the integrity of the final outcome. Button Atelier is envisioned as an evolving 'workshop' or 'studio,' extending beyond a traditional interior design firm, with various exciting projects anticipated for completion later in the year. When asked about local recommendations, Button suggests visiting the Pacific Design Center in LA to explore new home furnishings. For family outings, she highlights the playground at Malibu Country Mart, often combined with lunch at one of the local restaurants. She also enjoys browsing CB2 Design Shop in Malibu for new arrivals. For unwinding with friends, Soho House and Nobu in the same vicinity are her preferred spots. She acknowledges the significant impact of recent fires on the Malibu area, expressing empathy for affected families and businesses, and offering her design services at free or reduced rates to support those who have suffered losses. Button attributes much of her success and development to the influence of her parents, who fostered her artistic eye from a young age through their shared passion for collecting antiques and architectural history, particularly Art Deco. Accompanying them to flea markets and estate sales instilled in her a joy for discovering and reimagining vintage pieces, a practice she has maintained throughout her life. She recalls acquiring a vintage chandelier and mirror for her bedroom in high school, marking the beginning of her fascination with reclaimed items. Her husband, Jenson Button, is credited as a constant source of support over the past decade, granting her full creative freedom in their home renovation projects and bolstering her confidence in her design capabilities. Her four-year-old daughter, Lenny, also expresses an interest in following in her mother's footsteps, aspiring to design houses. #InteriorDesign #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #DesignAesthetics #VintageFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #SmallBusiness #CreativeProcess

The article explores the art of hanging pictures in a home, drawing insights from renowned designer Martin Brudnizki, known for his work on opulent dining rooms and clubs. Brudnizki emphasizes that art is a crucial layer in narrating a room's story, adding significant dimension to a space. He explains that art can either dictate the narrative, as seen in his work for Annabel's where a Picasso influenced the maximalist decor, or serve to amplify an existing design. This approach extends to his own flat in a Victorian mansion block in Parson's Green, which he shares with Jonathan Brook, who manages the Martin Brudnizki Design studio’s art advisory service. Brudnizki's flat exemplifies his philosophy, featuring a diverse collection of British art, architectural drawings, abstracts, and botanical prints, hung closely together to maximize visual interest. This eclecticism results from combining their distinct collections. He views picture hanging as an art form in itself, rooted in personal taste and creativity. He illustrates this by describing how he used the cool tones of a blue line drawing from artist Luke Edward Hall to guide his framing choices, opting for a blue frame and mount to enhance its visual impact. He suggests customizing framing with matching or clashing tones to make artworks pop, regardless of their original cost. He and Brook have meticulously developed their display over years, emphasizing that it's a slow, evolutionary process. Brudnizki advises that art should bring joy daily and shares practical tips for home decorators. He suggests that art doesn't need to be expensive or prestigious; anything with a personal connection, such as framed botanical drawings from an old book, can be meaningful. He recommends maintaining uniform frames for a cohesive look. The designer also stresses the importance of framing, calling it a creative process that can either enhance or detract from an artwork. He advises experimenting with mounts, slips, and frames, noting that a more expensive frame can elevate a less costly piece of art. Considering the room's function is also vital. In a study, minimal art might suffice to maintain focus, while a small TV room can benefit from being filled with art to create a cozy atmosphere and introduce talking points. Brudnizki argues that smaller rooms can paradoxically appear larger when adorned with numerous artworks. He highlights the interplay between art and interior furnishings, encouraging consideration of how artworks interact with each other and with the existing decor. Ultimately, Brudnizki advocates for a playful approach to picture hanging, asserting that there are no strict rules. He encourages bold choices, such as hanging striking art on patterned wallpaper or juxtaposing classical interiors with contemporary art. He concludes that even a single painting can inject fun into a wall without requiring a complete repainting project. #InteriorDesign #ArtHanging #HomeDecor #DesignTips #ArtCollection #Framing #PersonalStyle #Maximalism

Mimi Shin, a UCLA-trained architect and interior designer, brings a unique perspective to her work, deeply influenced by her decade-long career as a fashion editor at prestigious magazines like Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue. Shin’s design philosophy emphasizes a foundational approach to space, prioritizing timeless, handcrafted materials, and graceful proportions, similar to how a fashion editor would focus on the silhouette of an outfit. She integrates carefully curated accessories to elevate the overall design, treating them as analogous to the finishing touches in fashion. This methodology is evident in her personal Venice bungalow remodel, which serves as a prime example of her ability to blend new construction with existing character. Shin's journey into interior design was sparked by a realization that her passion lay in the broader aspects of design rather than solely clothing. After a transformative dream, she pursued architecture at UCLA, attracted by its innovative 3D modeling program. Her architectural education provided her with a comprehensive understanding of construction, zoning laws, building codes, and materials, which she considers crucial for establishing credibility in a male-dominated field. She notes the importance for women in the industry to be highly qualified and knowledgeable, enabling them to confidently engage with other architects. In her professional practice, Shin has cultivated a loyal client base among Los Angeles's creative and executive communities, including Hollywood writers, producers, and Snapchat executives. Her clients value her design expertise and her distinctive fashion background. Her own home, a Spanish colonial beach shack in Venice, showcases her design principles. Facing the need for more space, Shin opted for a thoughtful expansion rather than a complete demolition, adding a second story to the main house and constructing a discrete two-story back house. This expansion respects the original character of the bungalow while addressing modern needs, including additional bathrooms and a media room. The outdoor space of her Venice home further exemplifies her innovative approach, featuring a rectangular pool, an outdoor dining area, and a wooden sauna nestled within an ORCA-designed urban garden. The design cleverly integrates these elements without making the lot feel crowded, maintaining a sense of openness and surprise for visitors. Shin consciously preserved the original footprint and scale of her bungalow, contrasting with the “raze and rebuild” philosophy sometimes taught in architecture school. She implemented design choices such as limewashed plaster walls to create a lived-in, authentic feel, preferring this over the sterile appearance of new drywall. Shin's fashion background is particularly evident in her approach to accessories and finishes. She integrates vintage furniture pieces, like a Charlotte Perriand chaise lounge, which add character and a sense of history, much like a stylist would use a worn item to add authenticity to an outfit. Her bathrooms feature an artful mix of tiles by Nathalie du Pasquier for Mutina, custom stained-glass windows, and fixtures chosen for their aesthetic appeal, often resembling jewelry. She actively seeks wall sconces that evoke earrings, highlighting her continuous thought process regarding lighting as a form of adornment. Her work demonstrates a cohesive integration of fashion-forward detailing with solid architectural principles, resulting in effortlessly beautiful and deeply personalized spaces. #MimiShin #InteriorDesign #FashionEditor #HomeTours #VeniceBungalow #ArchitecturalDesign #Remodeling #DesignPhilosophy #CreativeSpaces

The article introduces Karin Breve, an architect and interior designer, and her business, Iconic Design. Breve discusses the thought process behind starting her business, highlighting her passion for architecture, her Brazilian heritage, and her desire to create emotionally resonant spaces. Growing up surrounded by diverse Brazilian design influences, from Rio's vibrant energy to Oscar Niemeyer's modernism, shaped her unique perspective. After migrating to a new country, she recognized the importance of belonging and combined her architectural background with her cultural insights to establish Iconic Design. Breve emphasizes that Iconic Design goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on crafting functional, sustainable, and deeply personal environments. Her approach involves listening to clients' stories and understanding their needs, whether it's creating a home that reflects their heritage, a workspace that enhances productivity, or a commercial space embodying a brand's essence. This philosophy aims to merge practicality, creativity, and cultural identity, resulting in spaces that leave a lasting impression and inspire innovation. The distinctiveness of Iconic Design stems from Breve's blend of architectural training, cultural diversity, and commitment to meaningful spaces. She draws inspiration from Brazilian color, texture, and tradition, alongside architectural principles of structure and function, to design experiences rather than just rooms. Personalization is central to her work; she delves into clients' needs, preferences, and stories to create authentic spaces. A notable project involved a cultural space celebrating Brazilian heritage, where she fused traditional elements with modern contexts, sparking discussions on cultural preservation and design. Breve's journey to becoming an interior designer involved significant challenges, including cultural differences, language barriers, and navigating a new professional landscape after moving from Brazil. Despite initial rejections and the competitive market, she persevered by focusing on her strengths, unique background, and passion. She learned to adapt to new market preferences and integrated her Brazilian roots into her designs, offering a distinctive style. Building trust and reputation required active networking and seeking out projects aligned with her values. She highlights resilience as a crucial lesson, viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth and trusting the process. Authenticity has been key to connecting with clients who appreciate her vision. Breve's ultimate goal for Iconic Design is to transform lives by creating spaces that elevate the human experience. She believes design can foster connection, whether through a sanctuary-like home, a creative workspace, or a public area that tells a unique story. She concludes by stating that Iconic Design aims to create environments that are truly iconic, reflecting passion, heritage, and the power of design. The article also includes a detailed itinerary for a friend visiting Los Angeles, offering a mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and culinary recommendations across seven days. This section provides specific suggestions for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and activities in various parts of LA, from Hollywood and Griffith Observatory to Venice Beach, The Getty Center, and the Arts District, reflecting a local's perspective on enjoying the city. #KarinBreve #IconicDesign #InteriorDesign #Architecture #BrazilianCulture #Entrepreneurship #CulturalIdentity #LosAngeles

Jana Kubischik, an interior designer and founder of Amazing Crocodile, designed her Berlin apartment to achieve a loft-like, open-plan feel for her family of five. While searching for a home, their ideal was a completely open space with only separate bedrooms. The apartment they found, though not a true loft, allowed them to create a similar aesthetic through strategic modifications. One of the most striking features of the apartment is the set of striped columns that act as an eye-catching divider. Kubischik, inspired by Irish graffiti artist Maser and Memphis design, painted these columns herself, having previously mastered the pattern in her shop and for a client's office. These columns define the primary bedroom area, which, with a half-height wall, creates a studio-like section within the larger open space, while the children's rooms are tucked away off a hallway. The apartment's layout includes a U-shaped corridor that connects the front door to the living area and then to the bedrooms. During their renovation, Kubischik and her husband replaced a former doorway along this corridor with a salvaged arched glass window, introducing an industrial element. On the living room side of the partition that separates the sleeping area, integrated cubbies and paper storage boxes discreetly house small items, while the other side functions as the headboard. For wardrobe storage, a series of IKEA Pax units were customized by a carpenter to fit perfectly into a corner. Kubischik acknowledges the minor inconvenience of the primary sleeping area being in close proximity to the kitchen when her children return late and want to eat. The kitchen, previously located on another wall, was moved into the main living space to accommodate an additional bedroom. Kubischik transformed it into a focal point by painting the upper wall in neon yellow for aesthetic appeal and using a black floor-grade product with smoky gray glass panels for the lower backsplash, prioritizing ease of cleaning over traditional tiles. To enhance the visual impact of these surfaces, she opted for open shelves and small cabinets instead of conventional upper cabinetry and utilized island cubbies for plate and glassware storage. Another distinctive design choice is found in the couple's bathroom, where chartreuse concrete sink adds a vibrant pop of color to an otherwise serene environment. The bathroom also features a custom-built sauna. Initially a prefab kit, the sauna was wrapped in plywood by their carpenter to create a luxurious, 5-star-hotel ambiance. The overall design reflects a blend of industrial influences, bold color choices, and practical solutions tailored to family living within an open-plan setting. #HomeTours #InteriorDesign #OpenPlanLiving #BerlinApartment #DIYDecor #FamilyHome #CustomFurniture #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign

Neydine Bak, co-founder of Verhaal Studio and co-creative force behind various concept spaces such as Collective Africa, Bungalo34, and Flamingo Room by tashas, shares insights into her inspirations, personal style, travel preferences, and culinary interests. Her design philosophy is deeply rooted in creating tangible experiences, a passion stemming from her childhood love for special occasions and her mother’s talent for entertaining. This early influence, combined with her grandmother's encouragement of creativity, guided her towards interior architecture, allowing her to curate meaningful spaces. Bak describes her personal style as classic with a distinctive touch, eschewing trends in favor of pieces that resonate with her and tell a story. She emphasizes that her focus isn't on brand names but on how items make her feel, often incorporating unique jewelry to add flair to timeless silhouettes. This approach extends to her work, where she draws inspiration from individuals who appreciate beauty in everyday moments, citing designers like Tristan Auer for his meticulous detail, Hugo Toro for his blend of heritage and modernity, and Laura Gonzalez for her bold use of color and contemporary materials. Travel plays a significant role in her creative process, with bookstores being a favorite destination during her trips. She enjoys exploring independent shops and local boutiques that offer handcrafted treasures reflecting local culture. A notable purchase was an embroidered linen kaftan from Lima, Peru, valued for its traditional craftsmanship and personal significance. Another cherished item is a piece from South African jeweler Pichulik, whose work beautifully merges tradition and luxury, serving as a reminder of Bak’s South African roots. Her aesthetic preferences extend to a monochrome color palette accented with gold and silver, allowing accessories to stand out. Italy holds a special place in her heart for its rich history, architecture, and craftsmanship, which consistently spark new ideas. South Africa, her home country, is another cherished destination, appreciated for its people, landscapes, and culture. Greece is also mentioned for its raw and beautiful scenery, offering tranquility and inspiration. Bak's home reflects her travels, filled with unique glassware, ceramics, and artwork collected from various journeys. She is currently curating a collection of non-matching crockery and cutlery to create playful and culturally diverse table settings. In terms of literature, "The Culture Map" by Erin Meyer has been particularly impactful for navigating multicultural work environments, and "Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg provides continuous guidance for workplace complexities. While not a frequent TV viewer, she enjoys films and theatre, particularly biopics and documentaries, and finds inspiration in the set designs of movies like "Dune: Part II" and "Jeanne du Barry." A recent stay at Sterrekopje Farm in South Africa introduced her to Agathosma Betulina, a unique herb that inspired ideas for a new residential project and a fragrance. Her music taste is eclectic, ranging from Tame Impala for upbeat afternoons to Nina Simone for relaxed mornings and 80s retro for nostalgia. She also enjoys Purple Disco Machine for dancing with her children. Cooking is another passion, with Ottolenghi, Donna Hay, Thali, and Matt Lindsay among her favorite chefs to draw recipes from. A treasured possession is a colorful, intricately painted pedestal cabinet from Sri Lanka, valued for its unique artistry and the story behind its creation, symbolizing the joy of discovering hidden gems. Bak's diverse interests and experiences continuously fuel her creative approach to interior design. #InteriorDesign #NeydineBak #VerhaalStudio #CreativeProcess #TravelInspiration #PersonalStyle #CulturalInfluence #HomeDecor #ArtAndDesign

This article showcases the unique interior design styles of three designers, Jenny Powell, Edward Girardi, and Biff Bartron, as demonstrated in their personal homes. Each designer offers insights into their design philosophy, material choices, and practical tips for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces. Jenny Powell, owner of Somethings Unique, resides in a spacious Landenberg home with her family. Her design approach emphasizes a blend of elegance and family-friendliness, incorporating a relaxed European style with Scandinavian influences. After moving into their home, the Powells lightened dark wood floors and painted walls in pastel yellow and beige to create a brighter atmosphere. Powell's design is characterized by mixing old and new elements, such as Swedish Rococo-style sidechairs paired with contemporary fabrics, and the use of natural light and preserved greenery. Key elements of her home include fauteuil chairs from Spain with a gray-blue glaze, silk curtains in two colors, and durable microsuede upholstery for family-friendly living. The kitchen features granite countertops and unique hammered metal hardware, while the sunroom offers a casual dining space with a pine farmhouse table. Powell's home is adorned with her father's art, and she advocates for mixing styles, choosing tactile materials, incorporating personal art, and using a soft Scandinavian color palette. Edward Girardi, a proponent of high-rise living, has transformed his 16th-floor condominium in Wilmington into a sophisticated urban sanctuary. His design focuses on maximizing space and functionality in a compact environment. Girardi converted an adjoining unit into an intimate media room, painted in a custom purple-tinged gray. He meticulously blends his own paint colors and uses a sophisticated neutral palette as a backdrop for his home. A large, self-painted contemporary artwork dominates the living room, complementing the angular, masculine aesthetic. He repurposed a cocktail table by replacing its gold top with etched glass and staining the wood mahogany. Girardi's philosophy includes investing in neutral basics and updating accessories with lively prints. He emphasizes grouping family photos for impact and keeping them current. The dining area features a glass and chrome table for spaciousness, and custom built-in cabinets hide a bar and storage. His galley kitchen is designed for efficiency, with ceiling-height cabinets, slate tiles, and cork flooring. In the bedroom, a contemporary pedestal bed is paired with Shaker nightstands, and the space is unified by painting moldings and doors the same color as the walls. Girardi's advice for small spaces includes using larger tiles, decluttering with built-in storage, grouping pictures, measuring furniture carefully, and using solid colors to enlarge a space. Biff Bartron, a partner in BW Design Group, showcases an elegant California ranch home in Wilmington that balances luxury with simplicity, reflecting his preference for peaceful, spa-like environments. Despite initially being in disrepair, Bartron envisioned an open, light-filled space. He renovated in stages, prioritizing the kitchen and bathrooms. The enlarged kitchen features two dishwashers, three microwave ovens, stainless steel sinks, granite counters, and porcelain tile floors that mimic limestone. Sleek cherry cabinets with frosted glass panels and a pass-through window enhance light. A clever design integrates a Sub-Zero refrigerator, with the back half extending into the garage. Bartron unified the public spaces by installing dark ebony-stained hardwood floors. The dining table has an acid-treated copper top, and the living room offers comfortable seating for 11 around a baby grand piano. A chocolate brown daybed and silk curtains frame a bay window, allowing the city lights to become part of the decor. His color palette and simple furniture highlight a dramatic art piece from Paris. The powder room features hand-painted bamboo shoots and polished river rocks in the sink, adding a surprise element. The master bath is a spa-like retreat with a large stone shower and bamboo accents. Guest rooms on the lower level open to a private garden, and a secondary kitchen caters to entertaining. Bartron upgraded lighting and installed a whole-house stereo system. His recent addition of an Asian-inspired front porch creates a tranquil entry. Bartron recommends an Asian-inspired palette, using frosted glass for light and privacy, pampering oneself with luxury baths and linens, keeping window treatments simple to preserve views, and choosing durable materials for pet and family-friendly living. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignerHomes #ScandinavianDesign #UrbanLiving #ModernRanch #SpacePlanning #Renovation #HomeStyling

This article features an interview with Natalie Greenside and Melissa Brown, co-founders and principals of MN Studio, an interior design firm. The interview delves into their journey of establishing their own business, their work and career, and their recommendations for activities and dining in Santa Barbara. Both Greenside and Brown previously worked at an Architecture and Interior Design firm in Santa Barbara, where they discovered their compatibility and shared vision for operating a design studio. Their decision to start MN Studio stemmed from a desire to move beyond working for others, a realization that grew stronger over the years. They formalized their business plan by taking a class through Women's Economic Ventures (WEV), which provided them with the foundational knowledge for entrepreneurship. MN Studio operates as a full-service Interior Design firm, leveraging the extensive backgrounds of both founders in architectural firms. Their expertise is complemented by a rich understanding of materials and a vast network of industry connections. The firm emphasizes a highly collaborative approach and strong client advocacy. The co-founders acknowledge that their success is a result of hard work and significant support from their families, clients, friends, and colleagues, as well as their mutual partnership. A notable challenge during their first year of business was the arrival of Melissa's baby, which coincided with an influx of new projects. This period proved demanding but ultimately strengthened their resolve and demonstrated their ability to navigate complex situations, combining the demands of new motherhood with running a growing business. Overcoming initial difficulties in hiring, MN Studio now prides itself on a team of experienced interior designers. They prioritize creating an office culture that is collaborative, flexible, and creative, valuing employee input and respecting their personal lives outside of work. The article highlights some of MN Studio's current and upcoming projects, which include custom residential designs in Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Malibu, each featuring unique architectural styles. Their hospitality portfolio encompasses a boutique hotel in San Luis Obispo and several bars and restaurants on the South Coast. Additionally, they are excited about recent workplace projects, one of which uniquely incorporates a live tree within an open office environment. Greenside and Brown also share their favorite local spots in Santa Barbara. For breakfast, they recommend Lilac Patisserie for quiche and cappuccino, followed by a visit to the Santa Barbara Art Museum. An afternoon could be spent wine tasting in the Funk Zone, culminating in dinner at Flor de Maiz for duck confit taquitos. A second day might involve hiking local trails for scenic views, followed by brunch at Field and Fort in Summerland and shopping at The Well, Porch, and Botanik. An evening suggestion includes dinner at Ca Dario, an Aperol Spritz at Good Lion, and a concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl. They specifically highlight Lotus Land, an estate known for its avant-garde landscaping, as an unmissable attraction. The co-founders express gratitude for the extensive support they received, acknowledging their families for financial investment, encouragement, and guidance in business operations. The skills acquired from WEV were crucial in building a solid business foundation. They also mention the overwhelming support from clients, consultants, friends, and colleagues upon announcing the launch of their business. The article concludes by inviting readers to visit MN Studio's website and Instagram for more information, and attributes image credits to Blake Bronstad, while also providing a link for community nominations for the Shoutout series. #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #MNStudio #NatalieGreenside #MelissaBrown #SantaBarbara #BusinessJourney #DesignFirm #WorkLifeBalance

Fanny Ward, a London-based interior designer and stylist, shares insights from her extensive career, which spans collaborations with major brands like Fortnum & Mason and Harrods, as well as designing interiors for homes, hotels in locations such as Marrakesh, St Lucia, Geneva, and even super yachts in the Mediterranean. Now in her 70s, Ward reflects on her journey into the design world, which she describes as serendipitous. Her career began after her marriage ended, working at The Dining Room Shop where she discovered a passion for visual merchandising and decorating. An unexpected feature of her home in the Sunday Express by editor Eve Pollard led to a portfolio development through collaborations with renowned photographers like Fritz von der Schulenberg and Simon Upton. Her first significant professional role was with Dulux paint, where she was responsible for promoting their color schemes. This experience, along with her innate 'eye' for design—a trait she attributes to her mother—allowed her to learn on the job and develop a practical approach to interior design. Ward emphasizes that an inherent aesthetic sensibility is crucial and cannot be taught in a classroom setting. Throughout her career, she has worked with a diverse range of clients, but a pivotal moment was her collaboration with Volga Linen and Theresa Tollemache, which led to her taking on a full-time interior design role after decorating a large estate in Scotland. Ward recounts memorable projects, including transforming television presenter Jim Davidson's house into a Moroccan casbah. This project involved extensive customisation using Arabic fabrics, unique chair coverings, abundant cushions, and MDF mouldings to create an authentic atmosphere. She highlights her unwavering passion for good lighting, advocating for 'borrowed light' techniques, as practiced by Georgians, to brighten dark spaces and uplift the mood. She strongly advises against overhead lighting in most rooms, preferring floor or table lamps, with exceptions for bathrooms, kitchens, and strategically hung chandeliers. Her design philosophy also includes tailoring her color palettes to the project's location, incorporating natural elements like lichen yellows and various greens for Scottish projects, and emphasizing textures such as tweeds and chintz to blend the indoors with the outdoors. Ward provides practical advice on furniture placement, suggesting that sofas and chairs should be moved slightly away from walls to create a more inviting space. She also champions the preservation of a building's original character, emphasizing sustainability and the importance of allowing a home's personality to evolve with its inhabitants through quality furnishings. Despite having access to high-end suppliers like Howe London, Love Your Home, George Smith, Little Greene, Annie Sloan, Lewis & Wood, and Nina Campbell, Ward also champions affordable options from Ikea and Dunelm for transforming spaces on a budget. She encourages painting old furniture to give it new life, showcasing her belief that good design is accessible regardless of financial constraints. Currently engaged in a barn conversion in Scotland, Ward expresses her love for working on projects from the ground up, meticulously drawing everything to scale to immerse herself in the design process. She finds immense joy and engagement in her work, which allows her to meet fascinating people and their stories, while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance by setting boundaries for her working hours and taking time for personal life and travel with friends and family. Her advice to aspiring designers is to gain experience by working for others and to be brave in pursuing their passions and building connections. #InteriorDesign #FannyWard #CareerHighlights #DesignPhilosophy #HomeDecor #LightingDesign #ClientProjects #Entrepreneurship #CreativeProcess

Jessica Schuster, founder and president of the New York-based design firm Jessica Schuster Design, discusses her journey into interior design, her approach to projects, and her creative philosophy. Schuster's firm handles a diverse portfolio, including residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces across the country, with notable projects such as residences in New York and the Esmé Hotel in Miami Beach. She emphasizes crafting unique spaces that balance the unusual with the familiar, maintaining a global awareness while committing to enduring interiors, defining "timeless joy" as the beauty of well-designed pieces that withstand time. Schuster initially pursued communications at New York University before earning an associate degree in interior and architectural studies from Parsons School of Design. She considers her entry into interior design as more of a natural evolution, influenced by her childhood exposure to design through her parents' home building project in Palm Beach and early internships in the field. When she established Jessica Schuster Design in 2013, she integrated lessons from previous firms, particularly the importance of operational organization, transparency with clients, and fostering a collaborative and innovative studio environment. Her creative energy is sustained through constant engagement with the world, including travel, art galleries, and design fairs, which she believes infuse fresh perspectives into each project. Schuster tailors her approach to diverse clients, ranging from families to bachelors and hospitality clients, educating them on how design can enhance their lives and create personalized luxurious experiences. She notes that each project dictates its unique palette, though she has recently gravitated towards deeper, saturated colors and the juxtaposition of contemporary pieces with antiques, such as Italian and French mid-century or Brazilian designs, to create dynamic and layered spaces. For hospitality projects, Schuster aims to create engaging spaces that spark conversation and evoke emotion. She is currently involved in a project at Windham Mountain Club in New York, where she is designing various spaces, focusing on creating a cohesive narrative while ensuring each area feels distinct. She acknowledges that both the architecture and location of a space inform her designs, but she also strives to create a sense of refuge, especially in bustling urban environments like New York, by balancing architectural elements with interiors that offer an escape. Designing her own apartment has presented a unique challenge, marked by a slower, yet rewarding, process. Her personal space has evolved into a more classical design, inspired by French classic designers and their use of timeless materials, serving as a sanctuary that reflects her current life stage. Currently, her firm is engaged in multiple projects across South Florida, NYC, the Hamptons, Malibu, and the Caribbean. Looking forward, Schuster aims to expand her portfolio further into hospitality and high-end residential design, consistently upholding the firm’s commitment to creativity, collaboration, and elevating spaces. #JessicaSchuster #InteriorDesign #DesignPhilosophy #HospitalityDesign #ResidentialDesign #TimelessDesign #CreativeProcess #ClientCollaboration #NewYorkDesign