Wednesday, February 29, 2012

The Business of Interior Design



Most people envision design industries as glamorous, exciting, and fun. Who doesn’t love to decorate and design? But the fact of the matter is that interior design, fashion design, graphic design,  architecture or any other design businesses are about are businesses first, design second. While that sounds bad, I would like to share my experiences and perspectives on a subject that I feel is often overlooked and misunderstood...and why putting business before design is not a bad thing.


I was recently contacted by a concerned mother whose daughter has a knack for decorating and is contemplating a career in interior design. She wanted my advice, and so we corresponded via emails. I provided her with the ins-and-outs of the business, shedding something of a harsh reality on the subject. I started my career in fashion design in Manhattan many years ago and have (for good or bad) talked many young, starry eyed students out of going into that field just because they like clothes!


What I explained to these students, and this concerned mother, is that you can make a career out of design if you really LOVE it. But you must be thick skinned and work long, hard hours with a variety of clients and attitudes. Design is a business. You have to sell your services design if you ever hope to make it in this business.

Her final reply to me was;
Kathleen,
The information you provided is the key of what I been trying to explain to her, as you may appreciate she is young and full of ideas which is great but not realistic in terms of the spending in education and all the licensing she must go through afterwards. I don’t want her to be discouraged, but I want her to understand and know that as you explain in the previous e-mail it is not all glamor. She is a fan of HGTV decorating shows and you see that they too glamorize the industry. I thank you again for your tips and information because it always good to learn from businesses who have been doing it for a while.


For most designers, the ‘creative’ process of the business—envisioning the perfect room, developing client relationships, and seeking out the perfect textiles, furnishings and hardscape materials—offers the greatest enjoyment. —a client pays for a designer’s style and sensibility, not a product that can be immediately seen or touched. 
           
      All too often though the client does not (and indeed, cannot) understand the amount of work and effort that goes into interior design. A designer must be very specific with clients about what they do; talk about access to vendors, how paint colors are selected, explain knowledge of renovations, electrical plans, and understanding of how a person moves through a space, all while staying up to date with the latest materials and styles.

Being a good designer requires being a good business person. It requires balancing the design you want with the budget you have. Given unlimited time and money, most people could eventually design for themselves an adequate look. But doing design as a business means working within the parameters the client sets. If you can’t meet the client’s desires and budget, it doesn’t matter if you’re the best designer in the world, you won’t be in business long.


Staying power in the design world requires a focus on honesty and pride in the product and service you provide over the long haul.

As the author, Keith Granet says in the title his book; 'The Business of Design' is to balance Creativity and Profitability.  

Sunday, February 26, 2012

the Sunday 'quote' - PRODUCT or PROCESS?

" A House is a Product, A Home is a Process"
If I were to fill your house with furniture, then you’d be getting a product. If you want a home influenced by your personality, then it’s a process. I need to get to know you.


One of my favorite inspirational rooms. Photo credit: Zillow

Saturday, February 25, 2012

GIVING BACK

While this may not exactly be design inspired advice for your interiors, it is a life inspired moment for helping out and giving back; which is what I like to think art and design are really all about. I am posting this to raise awareness for the American Heart Association.

My son contributed his time and talent for a fund raiser called 'Jump Rope for Heart', sponsored by his elementary school . We emailed our friends, family, colleagues, and clients to ask for their support. A big 'heart' felt thank you to all for their generosity. 

Long Meadow Elementary School in Southbury, Ct ended up raising over $8000 dollars for the American Heart Association. And the principal, Mr. Moretti, hung in there the whole time. Way to go LMES!

For some fun, take a look at the video clip. 

Let's remember, even in this ever changing economic climate, lets to do our part and.... Give Back.


Thursday, February 23, 2012

INTERIOR DESIGN - Forecast 2012 – KITCHENS

 
Kitchens are where family and friends come to cook, eat and socialize.

To begin a kitchen overhaul, homeowners shouldn’t be afraid to dispose of anything from the last two decades, especially Old World kitchen styles with heavy molding.

I suggest that homeowners embrace new materials, like counter tops made out of quartz, glass and wood, which can vary in style, shape and color. Glass tiles for back splashes have become increasingly popular providing a light, fresh, sleek design element; use as one solid panel or choose from a limitless variety in shape and color.
 
Kitchens are being recognized as not only the heart of the home, but also quite often the focal point and centerpiece.

Often open to large great rooms, the kitchen now looks less "kitcheny" and more like an inviting place to gather and entertain.

The decorative elements that are strong right now include natural finishes like wood and stone but they are complimented by glass, shiny metallics, special attention to lighting details, and even crystal.

Still the favorite choice for metal finishes is stainless steel. It has been used in the best kitchens for over a century and maintains its association with luxury due to its universal appeal, its ability to provide a sterile surface and shiny appearance. You’ll be seeing it used now more than just for appliances, but for the cabinetry as well.