How rethinking job titles improved this design company’s talent pool

In the competitive interior design industry, retaining talented employees is crucial for a firm's long-term success. Five prominent interior designers, Allison Lind, Cheryl Luckett, Courtney McLeod, Summer Thornton, and Francis Toumbakaris, offer their strategies for motivating and retaining staff members, highlighting approaches that prioritize growth, practical experience, communication, and a strong company culture. Courtney McLeod, founder and principal designer at Right Meets Left Interior Design, emphasizes the importance of creative freedom and increased autonomy as key motivators. She believes that as team members demonstrate success, they should be granted more independence and creative input in new assignments. This strategy not only acknowledges good work but also establishes a clear path for professional development, fulfilling the desire for growth that many designers share. McLeod views this approach as a strategic investment in employees who contribute to the firm’s sustained health. Francis Toumbakaris, principal designer at Francis Interiors, highlights the value of hands-on, on-site experience. Coming from a general contracting background, his studio provides young designers with opportunities to interact directly with tradespeople like plumbers and tile setters, verify drawings at millwork shops, and even participate in construction when deadlines are tight. This practical exposure allows designers to witness their work transforming into reality, acquiring invaluable skills that cannot be learned solely through computer-based tasks. Allison Lind, an interior designer at Allison Lind Interiors, focuses on customizing growth opportunities to individual interests. Recognizing that creative professionals dislike monotony, she strives to offer new challenges or educational experiences tailored to each team member's aspirations. For example, if an employee shows a preference for kitchen design, they are given a more significant role in kitchen renovation projects. Lind asserts that demonstrating trust, valuing employees, and investing in their professional growth are essential for fostering loyalty and encouraging them to develop within the firm. Cheryl Luckett, principal and interior designer at Dwell by Cheryl Interiors, draws from her corporate experience to implement 'stay interviews.' These mini-performance evaluations, conducted at 30, 60, and 90-day intervals, ensure that new employees are properly onboarded and set up for success. By establishing formal, one-on-one dialogues, Luckett creates a platform for employees to voice concerns, ask questions, and express their career development aspirations early on. This open communication is critical for promoting longevity and encouraging employees to thrive in their roles. Summer Thornton, principal and interior designer at Summer Thornton Design, prioritizes grit and personality fit during the hiring process over résumé or prior experience in the same role. She believes that when individuals work within their natural talents, their output is exceptional, and they genuinely enjoy their work. Retention, for Thornton, is deeply rooted in culture and personal relationships with each employee. She maintains a manageable office size to ensure she can connect with every team member. Her firm fosters a strong team culture through social activities like karaoke nights, team dinners that include spouses, and inspirational trips, such as a recent holiday party in London, which aim to strengthen bonds and provide shared experiences. #InteriorDesign #EmployeeMotivation #TalentRetention #CreativeFreedom #HandsOnExperience #CustomizedGrowth #FeedbackMechanism #CompanyCulture #BusinessAdvice #DesignManagement

The eyewear brand KREWE transformed a former food storage warehouse in New Orleans' Lower Garden District into its new global headquarters. This project, spearheaded by KREWE's in-house designers and Olivia Erwin Interiors, aimed to create an adaptable, light-filled space centered around the sun, reflecting the brand's identity. The headquarters features an open floor plan that extends into a courtyard with a pool, serving as both a testing ground for new shade designs and a social club. The SUN_DAYS courtyard was designed in collaboration with hospitality group LeBlanc + Smith, intending to foster a community space for creative individuals in New Orleans. It offers amenities like a heated or chilled pool, wellness classes, and a sauna, and is utilized as a vital part of the company headquarters when not open to the public. The design emphasizes a minimalist aesthetic, built for function rather than preciousness, incorporating workstations from Poppin and Hem, alongside vintage finds. The kitchen areas feature concrete floors, marble counters, and Farrow & Ball's 'Breakfast Room Green' cabinets, with a nostalgic neon sign paying homage to a former Canal Street landmark. Beyond the headquarters, the article also explores KREWE's 1818 Magazine Street store and the gallery apartment above it, located in a historic early 1800s building. The store's interiors, a collaboration with Goodwood New Orleans and Nicole Cota, showcase a green terrazzo bar, custom-framed mirrors, and cypress cabinetry. The gallery apartment, designed by KREWE and Olivia Erwin Interiors, serves as a versatile space for hosting brand friends, dinner parties, or offsite retreats. This apartment signifies KREWE's evolution into a lifestyle brand, emphasizing physical spaces over an increasing number of products. Its entrance and stairway feature Farrow & Ball's 'Setting Plaster' and 'Cuban Heritage' tile, with a Signal Globe pendant from Workstead. The living room includes a vintage Milo Baughman sectional upholstered in pink, a custom coffee table, and a walnut dining table by Studioilse. The kitchen backsplash is pink marble, complemented by dark green fluted cabinets from Goodwood and a custom brass island. The apartment also features mid-century modern furniture, step-through windows leading to wraparound gallery balconies for natural light and indoor-outdoor flow, and outdoor furniture from HAY. A library features a custom sofa with paprika velvet cushions and automotive paint, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Dakota Shadow' and an Atollo Table Lamp. The bedroom includes a Nordic II Bed from Unison Home, an Ethnicraft 'Spindle' bedside table, a West Elm rug, and walls in Benjamin Moore's 'Winter Orchard'. The adjoining bath is painted in Farrow & Ball’s 'Green Smoke'. #WorkplaceDesign #OfficeInteriors #WarehouseConversion #NewOrleansDesign #EyewearBrand #CommercialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LifestyleBrand #CommunitySpace

The article addresses a freelance project manager's dilemma regarding difficulty in securing clients despite two decades of experience in the property development sector, managing projects for in-house interior design studios. The project manager, who enjoys orchestrating teams for optimal collaboration and problem-solving while delivering designs, seeks advice on how to market services to interior design studios and high-net-worth clients. A common obstacle encountered is clients' belief that their interior designer or builder can manage projects, overlooking the added value of a dedicated project manager. Sean Low, a business coach for interior designers, suggests that ultraluxury project designers are already highly skilled in design, with less room for significant improvement in that area. However, he highlights that production management, encompassing construction and decor, is an evolving field, particularly with advancements in communication technologies like AI. Low distinguishes between delivering essential and unessential information, arguing that while clients only care about the timely arrival of a product, providing continuous, even 'unessential,' updates can build trust and professionalism. This approach allows designers to proactively address issues and maintain a perceived high level of care. Low advises the project manager to differentiate their services beyond merely performing better than other project managers. He proposes a shift in perspective: instead of simply managing, the project manager should aim to 'entertain' clients by creating unique deliverables that would be noticeably absent if not provided. This strategy positions the project manager not only as an invaluable resource but also as a potential revenue enhancer for design firms. An illustrative example is provided through one of Low's clients, a design firm owner who faced communication challenges with clients who only wanted to interact with her, causing delays. Low suggested a system where each employee created weekly five-minute video updates on their work. This initiative was well-received by employees and allowed the firm owner to review updates on her schedule. A junior designer's playful video update, adopting a Gordon Ramsay persona, was shared with a client who found it humorous and responded quickly. Another junior designer's creative video featuring an actor portraying 'The Dude' from *The Big Lebowski* for a bathroom project also elicited an overwhelmingly positive and swift client response. This innovative video communication strategy transformed the client's business. The firm now produces four to six client videos weekly, leading to faster client responses and a valuable library of project videos upon completion. Crucially, the firm owner is minimally involved, yet communication issues have been resolved, and production fees have tripled. The firm's profit margin on production has become comparable to its design profit margin, making it one of the most profitable in the industry. Low concludes by encouraging the freelance project manager to embrace obsession and redefine the game by creating unique value that makes clients feel more connected and understood, moving beyond traditional spreadsheet-centric project management. #BusinessAdvice #ProjectManagement #Freelancing #InteriorDesign #ClientCommunication #Innovation #DesignIndustry #BusinessStrategy

The fierce competition for employees in a tightening labor market necessitates innovative strategies for attracting and retaining top talent. Companies are increasingly focusing on branding and enhancing the employee experience within the workplace. A growing trend among interior designers is the integration of living green walls, which serve to boost workplace appeal, energize spaces, and align with contemporary employee preferences. Attracting Millennial employees is a key driver for this shift. Millennials, who represent a significant portion of the digitally savvy professional talent pool, exhibit a strong preference for 'green' initiatives. Surveys indicate that a substantial majority of younger generations engage in gardening, are willing to pay more for sustainable products, and consider a company's social and environmental commitments when choosing an employer. This 'green' preference makes sustainable design elements, such as living green walls, particularly attractive. Major companies, including footwear and apparel giant ASICS and the National Geographic Society, are incorporating living green walls in prominent locations. ASICS, for instance, uses a GSky Versa Wall® in its employee break bar, where plant arrangements create a branded logo that can be seasonally updated. The National Geographic Society employs a more naturalistic green wall to reinforce its connection to the outdoors. The adoption of living green walls is also evident across diverse sectors, including healthcare, law, corporate offices, hospitality, and retail. Technology companies like Etsy, Mashable, AWeber, Microsoft, Google, and Twitter have also installed GSky® Versa Walls®, further signaling the appeal of these features to a tech-savvy demographic. Beyond aesthetics, green design, particularly biophilic design, offers substantial benefits for office productivity. The concept of biophilia, proposed by biologist E.O. Wilson, suggests a human genetic predisposition to connect with nature. Research supports the Biophilia Hypothesis, demonstrating that exposure to natural settings promotes stress recovery, induces positive emotional shifts, enhances high-order cognitive functioning, and increases creativity and productivity. Therefore, living green walls provide psychological benefits, with their calming colors reducing stress at an individual level, which translates to organizational advantages. Furthermore, living green walls contribute significantly to employee health. Plants in these walls actively remove airborne toxins, such as formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, ozone, toluene, and benzene, and can reduce particulate matter by up to 20%. Improved indoor air quality can lead to fewer illnesses like colds and headaches, potentially reducing sick days and enhancing overall efficiency. The cumulative effect of biophilic design, encompassing both mental and physical well-being, can lead to healthier, happier, and more productive employees, thereby aiding in talent retention. However, implementing living green walls requires careful consideration. While they address issues prevalent in modern office designs, such as sound absorption in open-plan spaces, maintenance is crucial. Some systems, like the GSky® Versa Wall®, are designed for high water efficiency, requiring irrigation less than once a week. Nonetheless, ongoing maintenance is essential, and clients should ensure that living green wall providers offer support and plant guarantees post-installation. Living green walls, therefore, represent a sustainable and flexible option for architects and interior designers to create engaging, healthy, and productive corporate environments, aligning with both corporate branding and the growing preference for natural elements in the workplace. #Biophilia #GreenWalls #OfficeDesign #EmployeeExperience #WorkplaceWellness #MillennialPreferences #SustainableDesign #CorporateBranding #InteriorDesign

The "rule of threes," a long-standing principle in interior design involving grouping decorative items in sets of three, is being challenged by many professional designers. This traditional method, while easy to implement, is increasingly seen as creating a staged or lifeless environment that lacks personal touch and flexibility. Designers are moving towards more fluid and intuitive approaches to styling spaces. One prominent alternative is the "rule of what feels right," as advocated by interior designer Brad Ramsey. This approach emphasizes balance in shape, height, and texture over strict adherence to numerical groupings. Jen Baxter of Baxter Hill Interiors further elaborates on numerical choices, suggesting the use of odd numbers to introduce energy into a room and even numbers for a sense of serenity. For instance, in bedrooms, even-numbered pairings like twin embroidered pillows and matching nightstands can create a grounded and soft aesthetic, allowing layered textures and subtle patterns to breathe. Another emerging trend involves the power of a single, impactful showstopper piece. Designers like Kerith Flynn of Margali & Flynn Designs prioritize objects with significant presence that can stand alone without requiring additional supporting elements. Kristina Lawrence notes that a single, large-scale decorative bowl can make a stronger statement than numerous smaller items arranged to meet a numerical rule. Olma Fuentes of Deni + Dove Interiors echoes this sentiment, recommending a single sculptural vessel or a sweeping curved sofa to anchor a room, rather than a cluster of smaller seating arrangements. The "edit by half" rule, inspired by Coco Chanel's fashion advice, is also gaining traction. Interior designer Lauren Saab suggests that once a surface is styled, half of the items should be removed to create breathing room and allow materials and textures to take center stage. For example, a nightstand might feature just one lamp and one personal item, while a kitchen might display a single large decorative bowl instead of three smaller ones. Christine Jahan offers a practical tip: photograph a styled space in black and white to assess its balance independently of color. Embracing negative space is another key principle. Designers recognize that homes are meant to be lived in, not just admired as showrooms. Leaving empty space accommodates daily life and prevents clutter, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens or beside nightstands. Jan Odesanya illustrates this by suggesting one cutting board, one shallow bowl for everyday items, and then ample empty space, asserting that clear space itself is a design element that performs a function. #InteriorDesign #DecoratingTips #HomeStyling #DesignTrends #Minimalism #NegativeSpace #HomeDecor #DesignFlexibility

This article highlights seven innovative design studios from across the globe, showcasing their unique approaches to architecture and design. These emerging practitioners are recognized for transcending traditional disciplinary boundaries, from product design blending technology with furniture to architectural firms challenging physical space limitations through virtual installations. Norman Kelley, based in Chicago and New York, is featured for its sly and conceptual approach, often playing with visual expectations. Their "Wrong Chairs" exhibit, for instance, exaggerated elements of the iconic Windsor chair, making them appear "wrong" yet fully functional. Principals Carrie Norman and Thomas Kelley emphasize a rigorous playfulness in their work, valuing impact and gratification over overwhelming designs. Despite being geographically separated, they maintain constant collaboration, blurring the lines between academic and professional practice. Their work extends to residential rehabs and commercial projects, such as their first retail space for Aesop in Chicago, where they utilized reclaimed common brick, and a subsequent project in New York's Tribeca district, using ombré paint to reflect the neighborhood's character. Homeowner Sam Vinz, who commissioned Norman Kelley for a residential project, praises their ability to refresh existing concepts in an accessible manner. San Francisco-based Branch Creative, led by Nick Cronan and Josh Morenstein, specializes in making technology discreet or "invisible." Their product, Plume, replaces traditional Wi-Fi routers with hexagonal pods that blend into home decor, providing efficient wireless connectivity. Both Cronan and Morenstein bring extensive industrial design experience, having worked for notable companies like fuseproject and Ammunition. They ventured into developing futuristic devices, including the modular Google Ara phone and Athos exercise clothing that provides real-time muscle activity feedback, which they refined to be seamless and intuitive. Despite their focus on technology, they are passionate about furniture design, creating pieces for Council's Drift collection that combine classic forms with subtle illusions, emphasizing longevity and sophistication. SIBLING, a young Melbourne-based firm, is recognized for its experimental and participatory approach to design. The five directors—Amelia Borg, Nicholas Braun, Jane Caught, Qianyi Lim, and Timothy Moore—engage in a wide array of projects, including exhibitions, commercial fit-outs, and residential designs. They actively initiate their own research projects, such as the ON/OFF exhibition, which explored the digital and physical worlds by creating a space that blocked smartphone reception. These conceptual investigations inform their commercial work, exemplified by the DUST retail space that integrated a digital commercial platform into a physical setting. SIBLING's freedom from established practice allows them to design a business model that is unique to their founders' processes, clients, and community. Refik Anadol, a media artist based in Los Angeles, explores the intersection of architecture and digital art. Inspired by the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Anadol created large-scale video artworks that transform architectural facades into dynamic canvases. His collaboration with Gehry Technologies and the Los Angeles Philharmonic resulted in immersive experiences like "Visions of America: Amériques," where real-time custom software projected images responsive to music and conductor movements. Anadol's work also extends to public art commissions, such as "Virtual Depictions: San Francisco" for 350 Mission, which uses Twitter data to generate animations on a large LED display, exploring how public art interacts with public data. He envisions a "post-digital architectural future" where media architecture transcends traditional screens and VR. Tropical Space, from Ho Chi Minh City, focuses on eco-friendly and avant-garde architecture that utilizes simple building materials. Founders Nguyen Hai Long and Tran Thi Ngu Ngon specialize in designing porous homes that "breathe" in tropical climates, moving away from conventional closed-off modern Vietnamese housing. Their projects, such as the Terra Cotta Studio and the two-story Termitary House, showcase innovative facades made from traditional red baked bricks, providing both graphic appeal and natural ventilation. They also design custom furniture from recycled materials, emphasizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness while fostering social interaction within living spaces. APRDELESP, a Mexico City-based architecture office, distinguishes itself through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates commercial ventures with design practice. Founders Rodrigo Escandón and Guillermo González operate a variety of "subspaces" including a restaurant, a café that doubles as a furniture showroom, an art gallery, and a print shop. This model allows them to experiment with how space is used and to circumvent traditional design practices. They view these ventures not merely as revenue streams but as experimental projects to foster new thinking and better conditions for their design work. Their unconventional approach to client engagement and public relations emphasizes dynamic interaction over formal style, resulting in a design methodology that documents the full lifespan of a project through casual snapshots and detailed drawings of everyday objects. LCLA, led by Colombian architect Luis Callejas with bases in Oslo and Medellín, integrates landscape, cartography, and botany into architecture. Callejas, who gained prominence through public competitions and his work on the Aquatic Center in Medellín, challenges conventional architectural typologies by blending natural elements with built structures. His conceptual motif of the "island" highlights the potential for unique developments within contained environments. Callejas advocates for cultivating atmospheres rather than prescriptive sequences, using evocative collages as a key representational tool. His work, like "The River That Is Not" study for the Medellín River, proposes integrated strategies for hydrologic remediation and public engagement, demonstrating a political resonance in his designs. His current projects explore topographical sites in the Andes and Norwegian mountains, applying large-scale thinking to residential jobs. #ArchitecturalInnovation #DesignStudios #ProductDesign #SustainableArchitecture #MediaArt #UrbanPlanning #InteriorDesign #ExperimentalDesign #EmergingTalent

Melinda Cardenas, an interior designer and creative thinker, discusses her career path and inspirations. She explains her decision to pursue a creative field, attributing it to a natural inclination towards design, organization, and creativity from a young age. As she matured, she focused on developing these innate skills into a professional career. Her research into interior design and architecture led her to fully commit to the field, despite recognizing its inherent challenges. Cardenas emphasizes that the profession allows her to utilize her core strengths in design, organization, and creativity, and she continuously seeks opportunities for growth to enhance her capabilities as a designer and creative asset within the industry. Cardenas describes her journey in interior design as both challenging and rewarding. She recalls long nights during college studio sessions and highlights the satisfaction derived from client reviews and project completions. She expresses gratitude for working in a field she enjoys, which also allows her to positively impact spaces and the individuals who inhabit them. Key to her professional development has been a commitment to continuous learning and maintaining confidence in her design decisions. She also values surrounding herself with more experienced and knowledgeable individuals, which has been instrumental in navigating problems and developing effective solutions. Cardenas advocates for consistently asking questions, regardless of how trivial they may seem, and lives by the motto, “Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone.” This philosophy encourages her to push boundaries, embrace new experiences, and engage in uncomfortable situations as a means of personal and professional growth. When asked about local attractions in Los Angeles, Cardenas highlights the city's diverse offerings, from natural beauty to vibrant nightlife. She suggests a day trip up the coast to Malibu, starting with breakfast burritos at Lily’s Cafe and coffee at Le Cafe de la Plage. Relaxation at Lechuza Beach would follow, enjoying the ocean scenery. For evening entertainment, she recommends dinner at Grandmaster Recorders, possibly followed by a show at the Pantages Theater. Another favored activity is attending outdoor concerts and movies at the Hollywood Bowl, appreciating the combination of good food, music, and the picturesque Los Angeles backdrop. Cardenas takes the opportunity to acknowledge Sarah Barnard, an interior designer who served as an early mentor. Barnard provided guidance on professional conduct, impactful contributions to the design community, and helped Cardenas refine her design influences during her formative years. This mentorship proved crucial in shaping Cardenas's understanding and approach to the design profession. #InteriorDesign #CreativeThinking #CareerPath #ProfessionalGrowth #LosAngeles #Mentorship #DesignCommunity #WorkLife

This blog post offers extensive advice from various professionals in the design industry for individuals aspiring to become interior designers. It compiles insights from interior designers, artists, editors, and business owners, covering aspects like inspiration, unique career paths, and valuable career advice. The overarching theme emphasizes passion, continuous learning, and practical experience. Shea McGee, owner of Studio McGee, highlights that her passion for interior design was all-consuming. She advocates for constant evolution, quoting Martha Stewart: "When you're through changing, you're through." Anita Yokota, an interior designer, stylist, and photographer, found inspiration in her architect father and her childhood love for rearranging furniture. Her key advice is to embrace learning curves and appreciate the journey of gaining experience. Joy Cho, founder of Oh Joy!, shares a unique path, starting her design company through freelancing during a career transition. She advises aspiring designers to gain experience through internships, build a portfolio showcasing desired work, and proactively approach companies rather than waiting for job openings. Leanne Ford, designer and host of HGTV's "Restored by The Fords," encourages a "SAY YES!" attitude, urging individuals to take opportunities even if they feel unprepared and to figure things out along the way. She emphasizes kindness and the idea that passion and inherent talent ("IT") are more crucial than formal education in a creative field. Stephanie Watkins, a designer and blogger behind Casa Watkins Living, expresses her lifelong love for creation and using design as an artistic outlet. Her advice is to follow one's passions and take the plunge, asserting that it's never too late to pursue what you love. Sarah Wittenbraker, founder of SARAH WITTENBRAKER INTERIORS, advises starting immediately—asking questions, seeking internships, and building a portfolio. She stresses the importance of understanding the business side of design, including marketing, sales, and bookkeeping, and advocates for running a business with integrity. Tara Oxley, owner of Eugene & Co and Chick’y’s General Store, recounts her candid approach in job interviews and highlights the importance of honesty and resilience. She draws inspiration from Theodore Roosevelt's quote about the "man in the arena," emphasizing that trying and potentially failing is better than never attempting. Nicole Gibbons, an interior designer and TV personality, advises paying dues, being humble, and learning from mistakes. She emphasizes the value of finding a mentor for guidance and support. Corey Damen Jenkins, a principal interior designer, reflects on his lifelong interest in design from a young age. His valuable career advice is to help clients spend money wisely, rather than just save it, which shifts the designer's approach. Duffy Stone, owner of Studio Duffy, emphasizes gaining diverse experience within the industry and actively creating and showcasing work to demonstrate one's style and capabilities. Rebecca Atwood, a designer, artist, and author, found her calling in creating environments and objects. She advises tailoring portfolios to specific companies, putting in extra effort, and not being discouraged if the first job isn't a dream job, as all experiences offer learning opportunities. Robin Wilson, CEO of Robin Wilson Home, was inspired by her family's rental properties and took an unconventional route, pursuing a Master's in Real Estate Finance. She highlights the business aspect of design, stressing the importance of a good attorney, bookkeeper, and cash flow for long-term success. Eddie Lee, owner of Eddie Lee Inc., realized his passion for design by reflecting on childhood interests. He shares a story of landing his first job through a timely encounter and a challenging on-the-job interview. Elaina Sullivan, style editor at Domino Magazine, was inspired by an interior designer friend and discovered her passion for styling and set-building through an internship at Martha Stewart. She encourages aspiring designers to reach out to admired professionals and never give up. Tiffany Brooks, HGTV Host and interior designer, found her calling during a stressful period when she redecorated a model home, which won an award. She advises pricing services according to their worth to establish professional value. Vanessa Deleon, CEO of Vanessa Deleon Associates, developed her design interest working in her family's furniture store. She emphasizes patience, delayed gratification, and the "triple D" model: Drive, Dedication, and Discipline. Claudia Stephenson, Director of Operations at Cultiver, advises having a clear vision of personal style and being authentic. She also suggests starting at the bottom, working for free for inspiring individuals, and treating everyone with respect. Erika Hollinshead Ward, owner of Erika Ward Interiors LLC, leveraged her business education in accounting before fully committing to interior design. Her advice includes building a board of advisors, connecting with peers, working hard, and maintaining a spiritual practice. #InteriorDesign #CareerAdvice #DesignIndustry #CreativeCareers #ProfessionalDevelopment #DesignInspiration #Entrepreneurship #PortfolioBuilding #Networking

Hiring new talent is a critical aspect of growing any design firm, and beyond standard interview protocols, the design industry presents unique opportunities for in-depth inquiries. Seven prominent designers—Monika Nessbach, Artem Kropovinsky, Tami Owen, Kevie Murphy, Chris Goddard, Laura Chappetto Flynn, and Ali Budd—offer their go-to interview questions, each designed to uncover specific qualities and ensure a strong fit within their respective teams. Monika Nessbach of Designbar prioritizes understanding how candidates handle errors and conflicts. She asks about their process for rectifying mistakes, citing a past experience where a hidden error led to significant costs. Her conflict resolution question assesses communication and problem-solving skills, while the classic “where do you see yourself in five years” question provides insight into their career expectations. For Artem Kropovinsky of Arsight, emotional intelligence in design is paramount. He asks candidates to describe their emotional response to a room and how their design would modify that response. This question, he explains, helps gauge their ability to empathize and connect with human emotions, extending beyond technical skills to encompass an understanding of how colors, lighting, and spatial layout impact a room's ambiance. This also helps him determine if a candidate's design philosophy aligns with his firm's approach. Tami Owen of The Owen Group delves beyond the resume by asking candidates to share achievements they are most proud of that are not listed on their CV. This open-ended question reveals what candidates personally value and offers insights into their character and often-humble accomplishments. Kevie Murphy of K.A. Murphy Interiors uses a lighthearted question to discern personality traits: “Would you rather empty the dishwasher or take out the trash?” She notes that detail-oriented individuals often prefer emptying the dishwasher, while more tenacious candidates opt for the trash, providing a quick, informal assessment of their disposition. Chris Goddard of Goddard Design Group assesses stylistic compatibility by asking candidates to bring in shelter magazines, mark their favorite spaces, and explain their choices. This method quickly reveals if their aesthetic aligns with the firm's design sensibility. Laura Chappetto Flynn of Element Design Network focuses on understanding a candidate's ideal work environment. Her question, “What does your ideal workday look like?”, is designed to be open-ended, allowing candidates to discuss their preferred hours, work activities, and even personal interests, providing a comprehensive view of their expectations and lifestyle. Ali Budd of Ali Budd Interiors, running a smaller firm, emphasizes cultural fit. She asks, “Why Ali Budd Interiors?” to understand a candidate's specific motivation for joining her team of ten. This question helps her identify individuals who are not only qualified but also genuinely interested in contributing to and enhancing the existing work culture. #DesignHiring #InterviewQuestions #InteriorDesign #DesignCareers #CandidateAssessment #DesignFirmCulture #HiringStrategy #EmotionalIntelligence #ProblemSolving

The design of a workspace significantly influences employee creativity and productivity, often in ways that are not immediately obvious. Research suggests that elements such as lighting, wall color, and even ceiling height can profoundly impact an individual's cognitive processes and ability to generate innovative ideas. Traditional office designs, particularly cramped open-plan layouts, may inadvertently hinder creativity, as they were often conceived with a manufacturing mindset rather than one that prioritizes innovation and comfort. People require a sense of security and comfort in their environment to foster creativity, and without these conditions, creative output can diminish. Environmental design psychologists advocate for incorporating specific design principles to enhance creativity. For instance, the choice of wall color plays a crucial role. Green has been directly linked to increased creativity, as have light blues and yellows. These calmer colors are less stimulating than saturated hues like red, which helps reduce distractions. Green also evokes a sense of nature, potentially promoting relaxation. Conversely, red should generally be avoided in creative spaces, as it has been associated with degraded analytical performance and increased aggression. The optimal level of brightness in an office is approximately 500 lux, similar to the light at sunrise on a clear day. However, natural light is considered the most beneficial, as it is known to improve mood, enhance sleep quality, and boost productivity. To maximize the benefits of natural light, it should be accompanied by views of natural elements like greenery, water, or wood, as these have a universally positive impact on individuals. Artificial lighting also requires careful consideration. Warmer light colors are ideal for collaborative workspaces that demand creative thinking, while bluer light is more suitable for tasks requiring concentration and analytical thought. A study from Cornell University highlighted that focused, indirect uplighting significantly increased office workers' satisfaction and productivity compared to the common wide, parabolic downlights found in many open-plan offices. The physical dimensions of a space, particularly ceiling height, also affect cognitive function. Higher ceilings tend to promote more abstract and free-thinking, fostering creativity, while lower ceilings are more conducive to hands-on tasks. This phenomenon aligns with historical observations, such as Edward Hall's 1966 work on places of worship, where grand cathedrals with high ceilings inspire freedom and openness, contrasting with the confinement suggested by smaller, contained chapels. Implementing these design principles involves creating diverse office spaces tailored to different types of work. This could mean having rooms with high ceilings for creative work and others with lower ceilings for tasks requiring concentration. Different wall colors can also be used to establish varied moods in distinct areas. While office design is not the sole determinant of creativity—colleagues, management, and passion for work also contribute—a thoughtfully designed environment can provide a significant creative boost. Even in existing, less-than-ideal spaces, simple additions like plants or colorful photographs can help stimulate creative thinking. The overarching goal is to develop environments that maximize the potential for success by accommodating various work styles and psychological needs. #WorkplaceDesign #CreativityBoost #OfficeEnvironment #ColorPsychology #NaturalLight #CeilingHeight #ProductivityImprovement #EnvironmentalPsychology #WorkplaceInnovation

Helen Parker, creative director at DeVol, undertook a kitchen renovation in her Victorian home in Leicestershire, England, drawing inspiration from a still life painting of a fish by American artist Wendy Prather Burwell. Her primary goal was to transform her kitchen from a space with cheap chipboard cabinets and worn appliances into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area. The existing room possessed inherent beauty with arched sash windows, good proportions, and views of a walled garden, providing a strong foundation for the renovation. The teal edge of a plate in the inspirational painting directly influenced the choice of backsplash. Parker selected DeVol’s Vintage Teal Lace Market tiles, utilizing all six available styles. These tiles, which vary in shape (square, rectangular) and pattern (intricate relief, smooth), contribute to a busy, textural, and uneven appearance, making them distinctive. To complement this, she painted the walls and ceiling in a soft, mellow, peachy pink, inspired by the backdrop of the painting. This deliberate combination of unexpected colors creates a less curated and more authentic feel. A significant investment was made in the flooring to establish an authentic and visually harmonized foundation. Parker chose a checkered marble pattern from Floors of Stone, which presented a grand yet slightly aged aesthetic. This choice was crucial for aligning with her specific color palette, with tiny pink flecks within the natural stone seamlessly integrating with the Farrow & Ball Setting Plaster hue on the walls. To achieve DeVol’s signature old-new aesthetic, Parker emphasizes sourcing vintage or unusual pieces instead of relying on mass-produced items. She incorporated furniture typically found in living rooms, such as a faded squishy chesterfield couch in powdery blue, into her kitchen. This approach aims to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, encouraging guests to linger. Due to the tight galley layout of her kitchen, a central island was not feasible, making the sofa a practical and charming addition. The ceiling was also accessorized to enhance the room's character. Parker utilized DeVol’s brass hanging rail, a popular accessory, by mounting it on a once unsightly beam rather than over the backsplash. This created a visual feature upon entering the room, displaying a collection of copper pans. While acknowledging the potential for a country kitchen aesthetic, she maintains discipline in not overcrowding the rail. Parker blended different cabinet styles and eras to achieve a layered look. She integrated a black sink cabinet from DeVol’s Classic English range, appreciating its proportions. Opposite this, she placed pink lower cabinets. A notable piece is a Georgian-style bedroom wardrobe, discovered at an antiques fair, which she repurposed by painting it, adding bun feet, and topping it with a curvy marble work surface. Adjacent to the sofa, a freestanding cupboard serves as a display case for her diverse dishware collection. Inspiration from travel played a role in the design, with elements reflecting Parker’s trips to Italy. Thonet café chairs and a vintage rise-and-fall ceramic light over the breakfast table evoke the ambiance of Venetian _bacari_ (cafés or bars). Additionally, fancy lace café curtains, decorative colorful ceramics, and a general Mediterranean feel recall her visit to Sicily. These elements contribute to a simple, classic, plain, and sparse aesthetic, reminiscent of how these establishments are integrated into daily life. This careful curation of elements, from color and texture to furniture and accessories, allowed Parker to create a unique and personal kitchen space that embodies DeVol's distinctive style. #KitchenRenovation #InteriorDesign #DeVolKitchens #VintageStyle #OldNewAesthetic #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #CustomKitchens

The Surface Design Show is set to feature its 'New Talent' section once again, providing a platform for emerging creatives in surface materials and lighting design. Scheduled from February 11 to 13, the event aims to highlight innovative designs and materials. This year's 'New Talent' section, curated by Jennifer Castoldi, Chief Creative Director at Trendease International, has significantly expanded, showcasing 37 exhibitors compared to 16 in the previous year. All participating designers have been in business for five years or less. Christopher Newton, Director of Surface Design Show, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration with Trendease International, noting that Jennifer Castoldi has assembled a collection of exciting new designers with fresh ideas in material design. He anticipates that visitors will engage with the diverse designs, textures, and materials presented within the 'New Talent' area. Many of the exhibitors integrate traditional craft techniques with contemporary design approaches. For instance, Charlotte Relf, an experimental embroidery artist, utilizes exaggerated stitches to impart detail and energy to her work. Similarly, Frances Stone, a Royal School of Needlework graduate, employs various experimental embroidery techniques, including gold work, crewel work, and beading, to craft footstools, chairs, and cushions. Charlotte Clayton Design merges knitting with automotive interior design for surface applications, while Farr Designs combines photography with contemporary design through hand screen prints and digital technology. The 'New Talent' section demonstrates a broad spectrum of approaches to surface design. Janine Partington emphasizes carving and hand-painted leathers. Trifold presents designs featuring thermal and acoustic layers, folded using traditional origami tessellation. Research-based designer Megan Cowley creates mild steel molds using water jet technology, which are then transferred onto glass. Wallcoverings are a prominent feature among the 'New Talent' exhibitors. Olenka's luxury British wallpaper collection showcases natural motifs of leaves and flowers. Catherine Griffiths' work includes bold wallpaper designs, fabrics, and cushions, drawing inspiration from Celtic mythology, the Renaissance, and European architecture. West by Design specializes in intricate hand-painted wallpaper inspired by the English countryside. King Kong Design produces site-specific corporate wall art and custom wall panels for retail, public, and residential settings. A significant theme among the 'New Talent' exhibitors is sustainability and a focus on nature, reflecting the broader 'Close to Home' theme of the Surface Design Show, which emphasizes designing with a conscience beyond mere aesthetics. Jonel van Schalkwyk creates surface designs with human-sized plants in a painterly style. Designer Paula Nerlich concentrates on circular biomaterials, exploring vegan compostables and foams derived from industrial and household food waste. Atticus Durnell, founder of That’sCaffeine, has developed a material from recycled coffee grounds that emulates granite stone. Brussels-based Studio Gilles Werbrouck employs an innovative approach to material reuse by knitting textiles from unconventional sources such as video tape and dead stock from fashion designers. Access to the Surface Design Show is free for professional and trade visitors, with registration available online. #SurfaceDesignShow #NewTalent #EmergingCreatives #SurfaceMaterials #LightingDesign #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #MaterialInnovation #CraftTechniques

Lauren Bencivengo, a 23-year-old interior designer, has achieved significant success in multiple facets of the design industry. After graduating from college, Bencivengo secured a position as an interior designer at Delawie Architects in San Diego, where her work involved furniture and fabric curation. Her design approach is characterized by a refusal to be confined to a single medium, as she seamlessly transitions between painting, drawing, and interior design, embracing diverse opportunities. A pivotal moment in Bencivengo's career occurred when she discovered a design competition co-hosted by Bed Bath & Beyond and Cloth & Company. The competition sought emerging textile designers to contribute to Cloth & Company’s forthcoming furniture collection. Recognizing this as an opportunity to expand her design repertoire, Bencivengo embarked on textile design as a side venture. For the competition, Bencivengo aimed to create patterns that exuded a timeless quality while maintaining a fresh and contemporary appeal. Instead of drawing inspiration from existing 'timeless' patterns, she challenged herself to seek timeless design elements from unconventional sources, such as architecture, fashion, and everyday objects. Her unique perspective and innovative designs distinguished her entry from hundreds of others. Bencivengo's textile collection emerged as the winning entry and was subsequently launched at Bed Bath & Beyond in October. This achievement marked a significant milestone for the young designer, providing her with exposure in a major retail environment. Despite this early success, Bencivengo remains committed to continuous learning and broadening her design skills. Her current primary goal is to become a licensed interior designer, with aspirations of eventually launching her own line of designed goods. In addition to her professional endeavors, Bencivengo dedicates her spare time to self-teaching hand lettering and illustration. She leverages these skills to create custom greeting cards and wedding invitations, demonstrating her passion for diverse creative outlets beyond her full-time job. Her journey exemplifies a dynamic approach to a career, characterized by versatility and an openness to new challenges. Bencivengo offers a key piece of advice to aspiring young designers: to actively seek out and embrace new challenges. She encourages them to navigate uncertainties by learning as they go, emphasizing that each experience, regardless of initial expertise, contributes to personal and professional growth. Her philosophy underscores the importance of a proactive and adaptable mindset in the competitive design landscape. #InteriorDesign #TextileDesign #BedBathAndBeyond #ClothAndCompany #YoungDesigner #DesignCompetition #SideHustle #CreativeFulfillment #TimelessDesign

Power Home Remodeling, an exterior home remodeling company, is redefining its industry by adopting a tech-first approach, leveraging in-house software development. Despite operating in an industry often associated with consumer complaints, Power has positioned itself as a tech company that rebuilds homes. This classification is primarily due to its commitment to developing its proprietary collaborative intelligence platform, NITRO, internally rather than purchasing off-the-shelf solutions. This "build-not-buy" philosophy, championed by Chief Operating Officer/Partner Tim Wenhold, involves agile methodologies and continuous optimization of business processes through data analytics. Diego Borges, a remote developer for Power Home Remodeling, initially found it difficult to envision the technological needs of a home remodeling company. However, he quickly realized that technology is central to Power's operations. NITRO manages critical aspects such as leads, appointments, and automation, providing a comprehensive system that developers like Borges constantly strive to optimize. The company's tech teams are tasked with re-evaluating internal processes, prioritizing new features, and building applications from the ground up, offering invigorating challenges for its developers. Sebastian Kopp, a NITRO developer based at the company’s Chester headquarters, highlights the satisfaction derived from enhancing internal operations. One significant project involved redesigning the workflow for the customer assistance contact center. By using asynchronous script, Kopp and his team developed a faster system for connecting customers with agents, resulting in a 5% to 10% increase in call handling capacity and quicker access to homeowner information. This improvement empowered the customer assistance team and contributed to overall business efficiency. Another notable innovation addressed the time-consuming loan application process. Previously, it could take weeks for homeowners to receive bank loan approvals after a remodeling consultant made a sale. Borges's team automated this process by integrating Power's system directly with bank systems. This integration now provides loan results within minutes, allowing remodeling consultants to secure sales more quickly while still on the phone with customers. This automation significantly streamlined operations, reduced waiting times, and boosted sales, making the jobs of remodeling consultants considerably easier. The emphasis on clear communication is crucial to Power's internal culture, fostering a healthy environment where developers like Kopp and Borges feel heard and valued. They believe that being a developer involves not only writing code but also effectively communicating with various business units and peers. This collaborative and feedback-rich environment promotes continuous iteration and problem-solving, which has been instrumental in the company's growth. Power has expanded from a small office to a large, modern headquarters without compromising its core values or culture, largely due to the consistent care and support from its leadership. The company also contemplates the future possibility of issuing its own loan applications to homeowners, indicating its continued drive for innovation and control over the customer experience. #SoftwareDevelopment #CompanyCulture #WorkplaceCulture #HomeRemodeling #TechCompany #NITROPlatform #InternalTools #ProcessAutomation #DeveloperJobs

The Blockheads of the 2025 season faced the challenge of differentiating their homes, despite all five properties sharing the exact same size and layout in Daylesford. This year's competition pushed contestants to adapt their preconceived design visions to suit the unique circumstances of their assigned houses and the local environment. Han and Can, for instance, initially planned a 'luxe barnyard' aesthetic. However, upon receiving a modern, box-shaped house, they pivoted significantly. Their new approach, dubbed 'arte-zen,' aimed to transform the contemporary structure into a sanctuary, focusing on creating a serene and art-inspired living space. This shift highlights the necessity for flexibility and adaptability in design, especially when the initial vision clashes with the property's inherent characteristics. Similarly, Emma and Ben, who typically favored a mid-century modern style influenced by coastal living, found themselves embracing a country aesthetic. The inspiration for this change came directly from the Daylesford landscape, prompting them to move away from their usual preferences and integrate design elements that resonated with the rural setting. This illustrates how geographical location and surroundings can significantly influence and redefine a design project. Robby and Mat opted for an 'Australian contemporary country' style for their home. This choice reflects a blend of modern design principles with traditional Australian country elements, likely aiming for a sophisticated yet comfortable feel that is rooted in local heritage. Their concise nickname for the style further emphasizes their clear and unified vision for the property. Alicia, meanwhile, had to reconsider her preferred neutral palette. The quirky country town of Daylesford necessitated a departure from her usual comfort zone, pushing her to explore and integrate new styles and color schemes that would better complement the local character. This situation underscores the importance of context in interior design and the need for designers to be responsive to the unique personality of a location. Overall, the Blockheads' experiences this season demonstrate that while contestants arrive with distinct design preferences, the practicalities of the competition, such as the specific house allocated and the regional environment, often necessitate significant adjustments. These adaptations lead to diverse and sometimes unexpected design outcomes, as each team strives to create a unique and appealing home that stands out on Auction Day. The narratives of these design journeys offer insight into the creative processes involved in residential renovation and the continuous negotiation between personal vision and external constraints. #TheBlock2025 #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Renovation #Daylesford #DesignStyles #LuxuryHomes #ContemporaryCountry #ArteZen