Subscribe to our mailing list to get our weekly blog articles delivered straight to your inbox — all packed with tips, trends, and resources for busy interior designers like you!
We have some exciting news and updates happening here at Elite Design Assistants! Instead of sending multiple newsletters, I wanted to send you ONE called “The Elite Edit”! This newsletter will have a handful of exciting happenings going on in the industry and with Elite Design Assistants.
Read MoreAre you looking to elevate your interior design game and gain access to exclusive products and resources? Joining trade programs can open doors to a world of advantages that extend far beyond what's available to the average retail customer. Among these advantages, the most enticing feature is the potential for significant discounts, a substantial part of designers' profits. But the perks don't end there—trade members often enjoy expedited customer service, sales tax exemptions, exclusive product previews, and in many cases, custom design options and expedited shipping services.
Read MoreRunning an interior design business isn’t just about picking fabrics and selecting paint colors — it’s about juggling client expectations, project deadlines, vendors, budgets, installs, and about a thousand moving parts at once.
Sure, you already know the "big name" tools like Pinterest, AutoCAD, and SketchUp.
But today, we’re diving into the tools that make a real difference behind the scenes — the ones that help you design faster, manage projects better, create a smoother client experience, and ultimately grow a stronger business.
Read MoreAs the science and medical communities continue to confirm that our environment has a direct correlation with our health, the trend of biophilic design is on the rise. Biophilic design refers to interior design and architecture that centers around nature and bringing those elements inside as much as possible. It may include increased natural light, living walls, eco-friendly materials and feature patterns, textiles, and architecture that mimic elements found in nature.
Biophilic design is a newer concept that arose out of interior designers and architects recognizing their client’s needs, as well as their own, to disconnect from a digital world and reconnect with the calming effects of nature.
Read MoreIn interior design, a niche is a specific area of expertise—something you specialize in that helps your business stand out. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all services, choosing a niche allows you to speak directly to a certain type of client and project. It’s about being known for something—whether that’s stylish urban apartments, holistic wellness spaces, or high-end kitchen renovations.
Your niche reflects your strengths, personal style, and the kind of work that lights you up. It’s not just about what you can do—it’s about what you want to be known for.
Read MoreIn an effort to better understand the biggest challenges interior designers face, I spend time in several interior design Facebook groups, and one issue that keeps coming up is intellectual property (IP) violations. So, let’s break down what IP law actually is and why it matters to interior designers.
Read MoreLet’s spare ourselves the lengthy trip down memory lane—the stomach-churning headlines, the cloth masks, the bleach-sprayed groceries. It started five years ago, to the month. We were all there, and we all remember what those early days of Covid were like.
Those of us in the industry also have a set of—let’s face it—complicated associations with the pandemic. While the world was falling apart, the world was buying furniture. Covid was a boom time, unleashing a fountain of opportunity for designers, retailers, manufacturers, and anyone else who could even tangentially claim to be in the business of home.
That boom is over. Some analysts predicted we’d forever be wearing masks and bumping elbows—that’s over too. Save for scuffed-up social distancing stickers clinging stubbornly to linoleum floors, there’s not a ton of physical evidence that we recently went through a global pandemic.
But we’re all still operating in a world that has been shaped by Covid. And five years later, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on all the ways the pandemic did (and didn’t) leave a lasting impact on the design industry.
Read MoreFurniture design is a historically and culturally rich multi-disciplinary field that blends art, engineering, marketing, and manufacturing principles to craft the objects that shape our living and working spaces.
Fortunately, the importance of protecting the intellectual property rights of the designers, inventors, artisans and engineers responsible for creating furniture designs, is largely recognized by most countries.
In this article, we'll delve into the intellectual property laws that serve as tools for protecting the unique and distinctive elements of furniture design.
From the functional aspects of patented features to the artistic expression guarded by copyright, and the brand identity encapsulated in trademarks, we'll cover the details of each approach. We'll also touch upon international design registrations, shedding light on how businesses can secure comprehensive protection for their furniture designs in the global marketplace.
Read MoreFor years, the open floor plan has been the go-to layout for modern homes. The promise of an airy, spacious environment where the kitchen, living, and dining areas flow seamlessly into one another seemed to meet every need, from entertaining guests to creating a sense of connectivity and openness. But lately, there’s been a noticeable shift in the way homeowners and designers are approaching space planning. So, are open floor plans officially over? Or is this just a temporary change?
Read MoreImagine a living room bathed in sunlight filtering through a living wall, where mycelium furniture exudes a subtle, earthy fragrance—a snapshot of tomorrow’s home. Interior design, ever the mirror of our evolving lives, is transforming rapidly.
To decode these shifts and help you craft an aesthetically beautiful space, we’ve consulted architects, interior designers, and furniture artisans, uncovering the key trends shaping interior design trends, 2025 edition. This article explores…
Read MoreInterior design is always evolving, and one trend that’s been gaining serious momentum is the one-room makeover. More people are opting for quick, budget-friendly transformations one room at a time, instead of committing to full-house/space renovations. But what does this mean for interior designers? Is the traditional full-service model becoming outdated? Let's dive into the growing popularity of one-room makeovers and what it means for your design business.
Read MoreAs an interior designer, there’s a lot more to your work than just creating beautiful spaces. Between managing logistics, communicating with clients, and keeping track of projects, the right tools can make a huge difference. These 8 mobile apps will help streamline your workflow, stay organized, and improve efficiency—whether you're on-site, in the office, or on the go.
Read MoreIf you’re reading this, chances are you’ve spotted some pretty telling signs that analysis paralysis might be hijacking your workflow. What exactly is analysis paralysis? It’s when you overthink every decision to the point where you’re stuck in neutral, unable to move forward. Think of it as your brain buffering indefinitely while your project deadlines loom.
Read MoreIf you struggle with content ideas while waiting on those final pro shots from a completed project, you’re not alone! Reveal photos are incredibly satisfying, but there’s so much you can share along the way to bring your followers (and future clients!) into the experience without loads of extra work. People love the journey just as much as the finished product. So, add some of these ideas to your content calendar, grab a few in-the-moment snaps, and let everyone in on the behind-the-scenes moments that make each project unique!
Read More
There’s decorating, and then there’s designing a space that makes people stop in their tracks. It’s the little things—a perfectly imperfect vase, a just-right custom table, or a stunning piece of local art—that make a home stand out and leave people asking, “Where did you find that?” Spoiler alert: these treasures usually come from small businesses.
This Small Business Saturday (every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving), we’re celebrating the magic of shopping small and all the ways it can elevate your design work.
Nothing wrong with sourcing from your big box favorites. But when it comes to creating a home that feels special, small businesses just do it better. Here’s why:
1. One-of-a-Kind Finds: Small businesses are where you discover those conversation starter pieces. Whether it’s a sculptural handwoven basket or a set of artisan-crafted wall hooks, these items tell a story and add depth to your designs.
2. Quality You Can Feel: When something’s made by a small team or an individual, there’s usually a lot more love (and fewer shortcuts) in the process. That means better craftsmanship and materials, so it’s an investment that will last.
3. People Who Actually Listen: Ever try to get a mass retailer to tweak a piece for your client? Good luck. Small businesses often thrive on flexibility, so if you need a slightly longer bench or a fabric change, they’re much more likely to work with you—and get it right.
4. Connections That Pay Off: Building relationships with small vendors can open the door to collaborations, like a custom light fixture or exclusive access to their newest designs. Plus, supporting them helps keep their businesses thriving, which means more cool finds in the future.
Looking to shop small but not sure where to start? Here are some tried-and-true ways to uncover the best vendors:
Hit Up Local Markets: Makers and artisans often showcase their work at weekend markets and fairs. It’s a great way to meet them, see their work up close, and make connections.
Get Social (Media): Instagram is a treasure trove of small business inspiration. Follow hashtags like #shopsmall or #handmade, and don’t forget to check local geotags.
Ask Around: Fellow designers, friends, and even clients can be great sources for small business recommendations. A quick chat might lead you to your next favorite vendor.
Visit Boutiques: Local shops often stock pieces from smaller brands and artisans. Even if you’re not buying today, you’ll get a feel for what’s out there.
Not every part of a home needs to come from a boutique, but there are certain categories where small businesses really shine:
Furniture: A custom dining table, a hand-carved coffee table, or a made-to-order bookshelf can become the centerpiece of a room.
Textiles: Look for handwoven rugs, throws, or pillows—bonus points if they come with a story about the maker or their process.
Art: Whether it’s a bold statement piece or a curated gallery wall, local artists add character and connection to a space.
Lighting: Handmade pendants, sconces, or chandeliers can make a room feel instantly elevated.
Decorative Accessories: Think ceramics, glassware, or unique objects that bring personality to the finishing touches.
Every dollar spent at a small business also supports someone’s craft, keeps local traditions alive, and helps a community thrive. As a designer, your choices ripple outward, showing clients what it means to invest in quality, creativity, and connection. And in return, you get to create homes that feel layered, meaningful, and completely unique. This Small Business Saturday, take a moment to explore the local gems in your community. You might just find the perfect piece to make your next project unforgettable.
xx, Danae
Design school can be demanding and thorough, but it often misses out on the nitty-gritty of running a business in the real world. If you’re just starting out as an interior designer, it’s only natural to have a ton of questions. And let’s be real—even if you’ve been in the industry for years, there are moments when you wonder how other designers are handling things or if you’re keeping up with the latest practices. So whether you’re just beginning or have been in the industry for years, these questions are for you!
Setting your pricing can feel like walking a tightrope. You don’t want to scare potential clients away with high fees, but you also don’t want to undersell yourself. The good news is, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—many designers use a combination of pricing models to keep things flexible and fair. For example, you could start with a flat rate base fee for a clearly defined scope of work and then switch to an hourly rate for any additional services or changes beyond the initial agreement. When deciding on your rates, consider factors like your location, experience level, target client, and the complexity of the project. High-end clients in major cities might expect a different pricing structure than a young couple in a small town. It’s all about aligning your value with your market.
A smooth workflow is the backbone of any successful design project. Here’s a typical flow that you can customize as needed:
Initial Consultation: Meet with the client to understand their needs, preferences, and budget. This is your chance to build rapport and set expectations.
Design Concept Phase: Develop the big-picture vision for the space. This might include mood boards, color palettes, and inspiration images. This phase helps you and your client get on the same page about the direction of the design.
Design Development Phase: Now, it’s time to dive into the details! This phase involves creating detailed floor plans, choosing materials, and selecting furniture. You might also develop 3D renderings or conceptual drawings to help clients visualize the space.
Procurement: With the design approved, it’s time to order materials, furniture, and decor. Coordinate with suppliers, manage timelines, and keep an eye on the budget.
Installation: This is where the magic happens! Coordinate with contractors and oversee the installation to ensure everything aligns with the vision.
Project Wrap-Up: After installation, do a final walk-through with the client, address any last-minute tweaks, and make sure they are thrilled with the result. This is also a great time to request testimonials and take professional photos for your portfolio!
Choosing the right social media platform can elevate your business and connect you with potential clients. Here’s a breakdown:
Instagram: A must for interior designers! It’s perfect for showcasing your portfolio with high-quality images, behind-the-scenes stories, and Reels that show your personality and process.
Pinterest: Another visual powerhouse, great for driving traffic to your website and getting your designs in front of people actively searching for inspiration.
Facebook: It can be useful for building a community through groups or promoting your services via local business pages.
Houzz: Fantastic for connecting directly with homeowners looking for professionals and sharing reviews.
LinkedIn: Great for establishing authority, networking with other professionals, and sharing thought leadership content.
YouTube: Perfect if you’re comfortable in front of the camera—share design tips, process videos, or even virtual tours of your projects.
Staying organized and on top of things is key, and there are some fantastic tools out there to help you do just that. For general project management, Asana, Trello, and ClickUp offer great platforms to organize tasks, timelines, and team collaboration. For more interior design-specific needs, tools like Studio Designer, Design Files, Design Manager, and Houzz Pro (formerly Ivy) offer comprehensive solutions for everything from billing and procurement to client communication and product sourcing. Each has its strengths, so it’s worth exploring them to find the best fit for your workflow.
The classic “chicken and egg” situation—clients want to see a portfolio, but you need clients to build one. Start by designing for friends or family or even staging rooms in your own home. Take on small, low-budget projects or volunteer to do spaces for local businesses or charity events. Make sure to document everything—high-quality photos are fundamental. And don’t forget to share your process, not just the finished product. Mood boards, sketches, and before-and-after shots show clients how you think and execute.
Finding your unique place in the design world starts with a bit of self-reflection. Here’s how to carve out your niche:
Identify Your Strengths: Are you great with bold color palettes? An expert at sustainable design? Know your superpower and lean into it.
Define Your Ideal Client: Knowing who you want to work with can help you tailor your messaging, portfolio, and marketing efforts.
Develop Your Brand Voice: How do you want to be perceived? Fun and quirky? Elegant and sophisticated? Make sure this comes through consistently in all your communications.
Show Your Personality: People connect with people, not just pretty pictures. Use your website, social media, and client interactions to let your authentic self shine through.
Presentation matters! Start by setting up templates in Canva or your preferred platform for professional and consistent presentations. Use a mix of samples and swatches, inspiration images, conceptual drawings, and, if the budget allows, 3D renders. Make sure to tailor your presentation style to each client—some might prefer a hands-on approach with physical boards, while others might be more tech-savvy and prefer digital formats.
A solid contract is your best friend. It should clearly outline the scope of work, payment terms, timelines, and responsibilities. Include a clause on revisions to prevent endless changes without compensation. Make sure to cover what happens if either party needs to terminate the contract and add a section about the handling of delays, like those caused by supply chain issues. The goal is to protect both parties and set clear expectations from the start. You can read more on this in this post.
When faced with tricky clients who have big dreams but a small budget, clarity is key. Start with a generic estimated budget calculator to help them understand the costs associated with different levels of finishes and furniture. Then, offer tiered proposals that give them options at various price points. This way, they can see what’s achievable within their budget and understand how upgrading impacts the overall cost, but it leaves the decision in their hands.
Thankfully, just about any task can be outsourced, from bookkeeping to procurement to social media management. Even technical tasks like CAD drawings and renders can be handled by someone else. Here at Elite Design Assistants, we’ve got a team ready to help with all of that. Whether it’s something you’re not strong at, something you don’t enjoy, or something you simply don’t have time for, outsourcing is a smart way to keep your focus on the creative aspects of your business.
Starting out in interior design can feel like juggling a million things at once, but remember, every experienced designer started where you are. It’s completely normal to wonder how others are managing their processes, and networking can be a fantastic way to gain insights from other industry professionals who are open and willing to share their experiences. But remember, just because others are doing things a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the best way for you at this moment. Embrace your unique journey, be open to trying new methods, reassess from time to time, and trust that you’re finding the path that works best for you. Good luck—you’ve got this!
xx, Danae
For many interior designers, sourcing is one of the most enjoyable parts of the job. After all, finding the perfect pieces to bring a design vision to life is deeply satisfying. But let’s be honest—there’s only so much time in a day and as much as you might love curating that perfect coffee table, sometimes it’s just not feasible to do it all yourself. That’s where a Virtual Design Assistant (VDA) comes in. Entrusting someone else with sourcing decisions can be scary at first, but with the right approach, it can be incredibly rewarding. Delegating effectively to your VDA isn’t just about handing over a list and hoping for the best.
Here are some best practices to keep in mind to make the most out of your collaboration:
1. Define the Scope Clearly — Really Clearly
Before your VDA can start sourcing, they need to know exactly what they’re looking for. The key to effective delegation is providing all the necessary details upfront to avoid the endless back-and-forth that can make you feel like you should have just done it yourself. Here’s a handy checklist to guide your brief:
Item type
Style
Color(s)
Material(s)
Dimensions range
Required quantity
Budget range
Maximum lead time
Shipping destination
2. Specify Your Priorities
Not all items are created equal. Some are non-negotiable centerpieces, while others are fillers that just need to fit the bill. Be upfront about which pieces are must-haves and which ones are “nice to have.” This helps your VDA focus their efforts where it counts and not spend hours hunting down the perfect $20 side table when what you really need is the sofa of your dreams. To further streamline the process, consider setting a time cap for sourcing certain items—for example, no more than an hour for vanity lighting options. This way, your VDA knows how much time to invest in each task and can prioritize accordingly.
3. Share the Big Picture with Visual References
Sourcing without understanding the big picture is like picking out an outfit in the dark—you might grab some great pieces, but they could end up clashing. Give your VDA the tools to make cohesive choices by sharing visual references that capture your firm’s signature style, the client's aesthetic brief, and any key pieces that have already been selected. This could include brand guidelines, mood boards, renderings, photos of the current space, or images of similar products that fit your vision. With these insights, your VDA can filter for items that harmonize with the overall design and stay true to your creative intentions.
4. Give Access to Your Preferred Vendor List
VDAs can be a valuable extension of your sourcing network, but they’ll need access to your existing relationships to really hit the ground running. Share your list of preferred vendors along with any login or access details, so they can continue building on the vendor-designer relationships you’ve already established. This maintains continuity and means you’re still benefiting from those trade discounts. If you’re open to exploring new vendor relationships, keep a folder ready with your details and resale certificate that your VDA can use to set up new trade accounts on your behalf.
5. Set Deadlines and Expectations for Deliverables
When you're working against a project timeline, timing is everything. Clearly outline when you need sourcing options delivered and specify the format that works best for you—whether it's a straightforward list with links or a more detailed presentation that includes pros, cons, and style notes for each item. Also, be specific about the number of options you’d like for each piece to avoid an overwhelming or insufficient selection. Regular check-ins can help keep things on course, but avoid falling into the trap of micromanagement. Trust your VDA to do their job, but be prepared to quickly pivot or provide additional guidance if the initial options don’t quite hit the mark.
6. Keep the Conversation Going
Keeping the lines of communication open is key to making your partnership with your VDA work smoothly. Make sure you’re regularly touching base—celebrate when they hit the mark and guide them when they need a bit of redirection. Over time, they’ll get a better feel for your style and preferences, and the whole process will become more effortless. The more you communicate, the better the results you’ll see in their choices.
Remember, collaboration is a bit like good design—it’s all about harmony, balance, and knowing when to let go. Give your VDA the trust and tools they need, and you’ll soon see how much easier (and more fun) your projects can be. You’ve got this—and so do they!
xx, Danae
Getting to know your clients inside and out is key to creating a space that truly feels like them. The initial consultation process can feel like a balancing act—sometimes fun, sometimes overwhelming, usually both.
While clients may come prepared with ideas and inspiration, it’s the designer’s responsibility to dig deeper, asking the right questions to not only capture the overall vision but also to uncover those finer details that clients might overlook. And although there are surely thousands of questionnaire templates available out there designed to help you with this, many of them surprisingly miss some of the perhaps less obvious points.
So, how many of these questions are you already asking your clients?
1. Are you right-handed or left-handed?
This might seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on the design. Knowing their dominant hand helps in planning everything from the direction cabinets open to the layout of the workspace, making everyday tasks more intuitive and comfortable.
2. How do you interact with your surroundings—are you tactile, visual, or auditory?
Understanding if your client is more hands-on, visually oriented, or sound-sensitive helps tailor the space to their natural preferences. For example, a tactile person might appreciate rich textures, while a visual person could benefit from a space with strong visual elements and organization.
3. What’s your ideal noise level at home or in different rooms?
Noise can be a deal-breaker when it comes to comfort at home. Whether your client craves silence or loves background noise, knowing their noise level preference helps you choose the right materials and layout to either insulate sound or let it flow.
4. Do you have any allergies to be aware of?
Allergies can sneak up in unexpected ways—certain fabrics, finishes, or plants might trigger them. By knowing your client's allergies upfront, you can make sure their space is a safe haven. Even ask about food allergies–you wouldn’t want to send them a dangerous holiday gift basket!
5. Are there any specific scents that you associate with comfort or relaxation?
Scents are powerful in setting a mood and forgotten far too often in the scheme of interior design. Whether it’s the smell of fresh linen, lavender, or wood, incorporating your client’s favorite scents can make their space feel instantly more welcoming and personal.
6. How can your daily rituals or routines be elevated through your space?
Daily routines are where life happens, so why not make them more enjoyable? Whether it’s a morning coffee ritual or a nightly wind-down, designing a space that enhances these moments can make everyday life feel just a little more special.
7. How do you use your space differently during the week compared to the weekend?
Your lifestyle can shift dramatically between weekdays and weekends. Knowing how your clients transition from work mode to relaxation or entertaining mode helps to create a flexible space that adapts to their needs.
8. What’s a comfort habit (like a cozy reading nook or late-night snack station) you indulge in?
Everyone has that one comfort habit they love. Designing around these little indulgences, whether it’s a cozy nook for reading or a perfect spot for late-night snacks, makes the space feel more like home.
9. What brands are you drawn to when it comes to clothing, cars, etc.?
The brands your client loves can tell you a lot about their taste and style. Whether they lean towards sleek and modern or classic and cozy, these preferences can guide the overall aesthetic and feel of their space.
10. Do you like the idea of secret spaces or hidden compartments?
Who doesn’t love a good secret space? Hidden compartments or clever storage solutions can add a fun, whimsical element to a design, while also serving practical purposes, like keeping clutter out of sight.
No detail is too small when it comes to making your client’s space feel truly theirs. By getting into the nitty-gritty details early on, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother design process and your clients will love you for going the extra mile. It’s all about those thoughtful touches that make a space feel like home.
xx, Danae
Interior design has always been about more than just function—it’s about creating spaces that make us feel good. Recently, this idea has reached a new level in the form of a trend known as Dopamine Decor. It’s no longer just about making sure colors complement, storage is practical, and lighting is pleasant. Now, it’s about infusing big splashes of pure delight. Because, honestly, why shouldn't we?
What is Dopamine Decor?
Dopamine decor takes its name from dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter that’s associated with pleasure and reward. The idea is to design spaces that trigger these positive feelings. It stands for personal expression, happiness, and generally making you feel amazing in the space. And it also carries a connotation of vibrancy and awakeness, so naturally, there are brighter colors, bolder patterns, and unexpected touches.
Why is it Trending?
As it goes with trends, they only last so long before shifting (even if they do end up coming back). After several years of channeling serenity and elegance through neutral minimalism, people are craving comfort in special spaces that reflect their personalities and passions. One might also speculate that this trend is influenced by a broader societal trend towards incorporating dopamine-inducing and stimulating elements into our lives. In any case, more and more clients are pointing to bold, fun accents to brighten up their dwellings.
How to Design With Dopamine Decor
Color Explosion: Introduce bold and bright colors. Think tangerine, fuchsia, teal, and sunny yellow to lift spirits and add a fun, energetic vibe. For example, suggest a bright teal kitchen or patterned wallpaper in the living room. You can also try color drenching, using one color across multiple surfaces to create a cohesive and immersive space.
Play with Patterns: Combine different patterns, like stripes with florals or polka dots with abstract designs, balanced with solid colors to avoid visual chaos. Picture a living room with a floral couch, striped pillows, and a bold, geometric rug. Mixing textures like velvet cushions with wooden furniture or a shaggy rug with sleek metal accents adds depth and interest to the design.
Have Fun with Shapes: Incorporate geometric patterns, squiggly or scalloped lines, or unusual forms to create a playful and dynamic environment. Use furniture with rounded edges, like a curvy sofa or an organic-shaped coffee table, to add softness and whimsy. Wall art featuring abstract shapes or a rug with bold, geometric patterns can also enhance the playful vibe.
Add Personal Touches: Fill the home with items that hold sentimental value or simply make them smile. Family photos, travel souvenirs, or quirky thrift store finds add unique, personal touches. DIY elements like painting a mural on a feature wall, crafting custom cushion covers, or upcycling an old piece of furniture with vibrant paint also work well.
Bring Nature Inside: Add greenery with plants. They reduce stress and improve mood while adding a splash of color. Consider low-maintenance options like pothos or snake plants. Using materials like wood, stone, and natural fibers helps ground the vibrant decor, creating a harmonious and inviting environment.
Make It Functional and Fun: Keep things organized with colorful bins, patterned boxes, and quirky hooks that serve both functional and decorative purposes, adding to the joyful aesthetic. Incorporate fun, interactive elements like chalkboard walls or magnetic boards where family members can leave notes and drawings, personalizing the space and keeping it dynamic.
Adding Unexpected and Humorous Elements: Sprinkle in unexpected or humorous elements. These touches can surprise and delight, adding unique charm and personality.
What if it feels like…a bit much?
Stress not! Dopamine decor doesn’t have to be maximalist or overloaded. It can be subtle without compromising your signature style. Sometimes a small splash of color can bring out the best in an otherwise subdued-tone room. Try a bold accent chair or a funky lamp as a statement piece to uplift the room's mood. You can reserve the louder designs for bathrooms or laundry rooms. You can also experiment with things like colorful hardware or picture frames to dip your toes into the trend.
Final Tips
This trend isn’t just “the more, the better.” You’ll still need to use your expertise to create harmony and avoid overload.
Take the whole sensory experience to the next level by adding an energizing, feel-good scent to the space.
Take the time to get to know your clients well enough to be able to incorporate those personal touches into their space.
Have fun with it!
xx, Danae
Studio Designer the leading business management software platform for interior designers, today announced it has acquired Ottawa, Canada-based Mydoma, a leading project management and design business platform for interior designers. Together, Studio Designer and Mydoma support nearly 20,000 interior designers across the United States and Canada, creating the design industry’s #1 business management software platform for residential designers.
Studio Designer features integrated project management, time-billing, and payment solutions with a full GL accounting system. More designers, bookkeepers, and accountants leverage Studio Designer than any other solution to perform an expansive set of functions, from creating the first client presentation to accounting for the final invoice. This is why Studio Designer is relied upon by more than 15,000 designers, including many of the industry’s largest and most well-regarded firms, including Ken Fulk, Pembrooke & Ives, and Nate Berkus.
Mydoma’s focus on delivering exceptional solutions for lead generation, project management, and time tracking has led the company to great success, particularly with smaller firms or those that have recently formed. Studio Designer and Mydoma together will be able to support design firms at every stage of their journey, from Day 1 to AD100.
“For over 30 years, Studio Designer’s mission has been to empower designers’ creativity with innovative digital solutions. Sarah and the entire Mydoma team share this mission. We look forward to working together to develop new tools that will enable designers to create beautiful work while running successful, profitable businesses at every stage of their design careers. We are incredibly excited to bring Mydoma into the Studio Designer family,” said Keith Granet, Founder and CEO of Studio Designer.
The two companies will form the largest product, technology, and service team dedicated exclusively to creating business management software solutions for interior designers. This will translate to greater capabilities to deliver new, innovative features to designers, and provide even greater levels of customer support and design business education opportunities. By incorporating Mydoma into Studio Designer’s expansive product and service offerings, design firms of all sizes and stages of growth will find a solution that enables them to operate at their best.
“As a former interior designer, I was inspired to create Mydoma to solve the challenges that I experienced firsthand running my own firm. Over the last ten years, we are proud to have built an industry-leading product used by thousands of designers across the US and Canada. We are thrilled to join Studio Designer, which shares our values and mission to enable designers to spend less time managing and more time designing. Our future is bright as part of the Studio Designer community,” Sarah Daniele, Founder and CEO of Mydoma.
