The Correlation Between Well-Being + Design: 9 Ways to Make a Difference

We're obviously all about killer aesthetics, but today, we're taking a deeper dive into how your interior designs can do more than just create a visually stunning space. We're talking about the magic that happens when your designs positively affect the health, happiness, and overall well-being of those who inhabit them. It's incredible how much of a difference you can make in their lives. So, let's explore some ways you can make that happen!

1. Light and Color

You're probably no stranger to the idea that colors can set the mood – warm hues like reds and yellows bring vibrancy and energy, while serene blues and greens offer calm and relaxation. But it doesn’t stop there! Natural light during the day helps us sleep better at night and keeps our spirits high during waking hours. So, when we design with light and color in mind, we are creating environments that influence how we feel and sleep.

2. Acoustics

Acoustics in design are the secret sauce for privacy and peace. A well-designed acoustic environment not only shields you from outside noise (and keeps noise in) – it allows for the beautiful symphony of life to coexist within your space. Kids playing in the living room can cohabitate with a parent working from home. So, acoustics aren't just about keeping it quiet; they're about creating a versatile and harmonious living experience.

3. Technology

We all love our tech gadgets, right? They bring us convenience, entertainment, and even safety. But sometimes, we need a break from the digital world. Imagine a hidden TV or a cozy tech-free corner where you can unwind without the constant buzz of screens. It's the yin and yang of our tech-driven lives. Striking this balance ensures that the space doesn't just serve digital needs but also the need for some good old-fashioned human connection and relaxation.

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4. Harmony and Flow

A well-organized space prevents clutter and visual chaos to give your mind some breathing room. And thoughtful layouts and furniture placement go beyond functionality; they promote mental clarity and an overall feeling of serenity. In essence, it’s as they say: a tidy space equals a tidy mind.

5. Ergonomics

Furniture is more than a pretty prop; it can be your body's ally. Well-designed furniture knows how to keep your posture in check and your joints happy. With lumbar support in chairs, desks that adjust to your liking, and mattresses that cradle you just right, it's all about keeping you physically content.

6. Biophilic Design

Living with biophilic design is a way of tapping into your primal connection to the natural world with science-backed health perks. Imagine bringing the outdoors in – with plants, natural materials, and calming green views. It's like a mini-vacation for your senses. Studies show that this connection to nature reduces stress, boosts cognitive function, and makes you feel all-around awesome.

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7. Accessibility and Inclusivity

One person’s happy place might look a little different from the next. Think of an environment that welcomes all abilities and needs, where everyone feels like they belong. It's about creating spaces that everyone can readily access – whether that means installing ramps, wider doorways, or sensory-friendly design – and enjoy.

8. Sustainability

Sustainability might sometimes feel like a concept that is separate to us, but it's actually a reflection of our well-being and our home planet's health. Sustainable materials improve the air quality in our homes, reduce our carbon footprint, and nudge us towards a more eco-conscious lifestyle. It's about being responsible stewards of our environment, ensuring well-being for generations to come.

9. Personalization

When you dive into personalization, remember that beyond aesthetics, it's about designing a space that celebrates the inhabitant’s uniqueness, sparks their joy, and serves as the stage for the kind of lifestyle they want for themselves. And a place like that certainly contributes to happiness and well-being.

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Balancing all these elements and seamlessly integrating them into your designs can be a lot – never mind juggling invoices and lead times. But through your dedication to placing these elements at the forefront of your creative process, you enrich the lives of those who inhabit your designs. And that’s something you can be very proud of as a designer!

xx, Danae

Unpacking Your Interior Design Contracts: 14 Points to Include

If you’re reading this, chances are you're seeking assurance that your interior design contract covers all the critical bases. And you do well to check, because having a meticulously crafted contract serves a dual purpose: it not only forges a shared understanding of the design journey with your client but also safeguards your company from potential liabilities.

Some interior designers may be tempted to skip or simplify contract terms to maintain a more friendly rapport with clients. However, this is a misstep. Interior design projects involve significant financial, time, and emotional investments. When unexpected issues arise, tensions can escalate rapidly, and the stakes are high. Therefore, leaving nothing to assumptions and creating a thorough agreement between you and your clients is fundamental. 

While you can readily find some great interior design agreement templates online, the best course of action is to consult with a lawyer to review the terms and ensure that your contract holds legal validity. Ultimately, you are responsible for your contract's terms, so here are some (but not all!) points to consider when crafting your interior design contract:

1. Scope of Work: Clearly define the project's full scope, listing what is (and isn't) included. Specify details about revisions and the number of site visits included.

2. Project Phases: Provide a breakdown of the project stages, which may encompass pre-design, design development, contract drawings, construction oversight, and project finalization.

3. Intellectual Property: Determine ownership of intellectual property, including copyright ownership of drawings.

4. Fee and Payment Schedule: Define your fees and payment structure, including hourly rates for tasks outside the scope and invoicing and payment terms (including late fees).

5. Pricing: Clarify that you do not guarantee prices for goods or services, as they may change beyond your control.

6. Contractors: State that you are not responsible for services provided by contractors or consultants, requiring clients to sign separate agreements.

7. Purchasing and Procurement: Specify terms regarding deposits or full payments before purchasing on the client's behalf and liability for delivery times or conditions.

8. Refunds: Address policies regarding non-refundable purchases and shipping charges, custom-made items, and reimbursements when vendors do not offer refunds or orders are canceled.

9. Delays: Incorporate provisions for delays attributable to the designer, client, contractors, or circumstances of force majeure.

10. Termination: Include a clause allowing the client to terminate the contract, with responsibility for outstanding fees and charges.

11. Reimbursable Costs: Detail costs such as samples, storage, and travel.

12. Insurance: Specify the client's responsibility for insurance coverage on furnishings and materials during handling, movement, and installation.

13. Photographing Completed Projects: Gain client consent to photograph their homes before and after design work for your business portfolio and marketing purposes.

14. Indemnities: Seek legal counsel to confirm the choice of law, arbitration, termination, modification, integration, and nonpayment clauses, tailored to your jurisdiction's laws.

Beyond the content of the contract itself, it's a good idea to walk clients through it step by step and grant them ample time to review it at their own pace. This approach eliminates doubts and ensures everyone is comfortable with the agreement before proceeding.

Remember, presenting a more detailed contract showcases your professionalism, and clients who are put off by the terms may signal potential issues. In the end, having a comprehensive contract will pay off, and you'll be grateful you took the extra steps to protect your business!

xx, Danae

See below for some additional resources you may find interesting as you outline your contract:

ASID Commercial and Residential Contract Packages

HouzzPro’s “Free Template: Interior Design Contract & Guide”

Nancy Ganzekaufer and Attorney David Adler on “Contracts That Protect” 

A Guide to the Ultimate Staycation

If you find yourself unable to jet off to a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, don't fret. You're not alone in wanting to make the most of your home and local area during your vacation days. Your days off are precious, so instead of feeling like you're missing out, let's turn your staycation into a great and memorable experience! Here are eleven fun activities to do with friends, family, or on your own.

A friendly tip: Resist the temptation to sneak a peek at your work inbox. Remember, you're ON your staycation!

1. Host a Cultural Night

Go on a journey around the world without leaving your city by hosting a cultural night with a few friends or family. Choose a country or region of interest and plan an evening filled with authentic cuisine, music, and activities. Get everybody to bring a traditional dish (or prepare them together), laugh while trying to learn a dance or musical instrument, and immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of that culture.

2. Create a Spa Retreat at Home

Take some time to indulge in pure relaxation right in the comfort of your own home by transforming it into a tranquil spa retreat. Set the mood with your favorite scented candles and play some soothing music in the background. Treat yourself or invite a friend for a spa day filled with luxurious bubble baths, facials, body scrubs, and cocktails or mocktails.

3. Have a Mini Film Festival

Create a unique movie marathon by organizing a mini film festival at home. Choose a theme or genre, and carefully curate a selection of films that align with your chosen theme. Set up a cozy viewing area with soft blankets, pillows, and dim lighting. Take breaks between movies to discuss and analyze the films, adding depth to your cinematic adventure.

4. Explore the Local Area

Discover the hidden gems and lesser-known areas of your own city. Break free from your daily routine and become a tourist in your hometown. Explore new restaurants, learn about the history and architecture, and seek out local nature spots or spend a night in a charming bed and breakfast in a neighboring town.

5. Plan a Backyard Campout

Escape to the outdoors without leaving your backyard by setting up a campsite. Pitch a tent, decorate with twinkling fairy lights, and create a cozy outdoor living space with comfy cushions and blankets. Gather around a fire pit, roast marshmallows, and share stories under the starry night sky. Embrace the simplicity of camping while enjoying the comforts of home.

6. Create a DIY Escape Room

Challenge your problem-solving skills by designing a thrilling DIY escape room. YouTube has many tutorials for puzzles, clues, and riddles that will engage your friends or family. Test your abilities to think critically and work together to solve the ultimate mystery. The excitement of escaping a fictional scenario will make your staycation unforgettable.

7. Visit Museums Online

If you're yearning for a dose of culture, you can now explore the finest art and exhibits right from the comfort of your own home. Thanks to Google Arts & Culture's collaboration with over 1,200 museums and galleries worldwide, you can embark on virtual tours and explore online exhibits of renowned cultural institutions. It's like stepping into a museum without ever leaving your sofa.

8. Set Up a Fun Photoshoot

Let your creativity shine by organizing a do-it-yourself photoshoot. Choose a theme, gather props and costumes, and transform your home or a local outdoor location into a personalized studio. Experiment with various poses, lighting techniques, and angles to capture unique and memorable moments. Express yourself artistically and create lasting memories.

9. Volunteer in Your Community

Dedicate a day of your staycation to giving back to your community. Research local volunteer opportunities, such as assisting at food banks, participating in park clean-ups, or supporting animal shelters. By contributing your time and energy to a meaningful cause, you'll not only make a positive impact but also feel a deeper connection to your community.

10. Find a New Reading Nook

How about picking up a juicy novel to transport you to another world? You can head to a new café with a cup of your favorite drink and get lost in the pages while enjoying the cozy ambiance. Or, pack a picnic, spread out a comfy blanket, bask in the sunshine, or find a shady spot under a tree, and let the fresh air and nature's beauty complement your reading adventure.

11. Create a Time Capsule

Capture the essence of your staycation by creating a time capsule. Gather meaningful items, letters, or photographs that represent your experiences and feelings during this time. Bury the time capsule in your backyard or store it in a safe place to be opened in the future. It's a cool way to preserve memories and reflect on the moments that made your staycation special.

So, while you may not be jetting off to a faraway destination, your vacation time can be a true adventure within the comfort of your home and local area. I hope these ideas help you make the most of every moment during your staycation!

 xx, Danae

Diverse Design Niches with Elite Design Assistants

At our core, we're more than just a team of talented assistants. We're a diverse group of professionals with an array of specialties ranging from Drafting and 3D Rendering to Project Management, Social Media Management, and Bookkeeping. But what you may not know is that many of our Virtual Design Assistants (VDAs) also have expertise in various design niches! Let's explore some of these niches and the kinds of tasks our VDAs are ready to assist you with:

Residential Design

At Elite Design Assistants, you'll find experts in optimizing space layouts and selecting color palettes, materials, and furnishings. They also bring your ideas to life through detailed drafting and immersive 3D visualizations.

Commercial Design

Count on our assistants to craft innovative and captivating retail spaces, seamlessly integrate corporate branding, and manage every aspect of project coordination for a successful outcome.

Hospitality Design

Our team includes professionals who can help you with conceptualizing themes for hotels, restaurants, and bars. They excel in curating custom furniture and decor, enhancing guest experiences through thoughtful design, and effectively managing budgets.

Construction

We offer expertise in reviewing plans, meticulously documentation, ensuring top-notch quality control, managing schedules, and sourcing materials at competitive rates.

Tiny Home Design

For those seeking compact living solutions, we have experts in ingenious space optimization, creative storage solutions, functional traffic flow, and the incorporation of sustainable materials, which is often a key aspect of tiny home design.

Airbnbs and Short-Term Rental Design

Chat with your VDA about how to elevate your short-term rental spaces. They shine when it comes to interior styling to attract guests and offer strategic recommendations for guest-friendly amenities and decor.

Long-Term Rental Design

Elite Design Assistants brings you specialists in designing spaces with long-term tenant comfort in mind, and they suggest updates to enhance rental value to make the rental a low-hassle, profitable venture for you.

Value-Add Projects

We have professionals who are experienced in enhancing property values through cost-effective renovations. They offer budget-conscious renovation ideas, high ROI improvement suggestions, and provide dependable project management for value-adding renovations.

Historical/Heritage Preservation

We have assistants who are well-versed in preserving historical homes or buildings. They specialize in respecting period-appropriate design while harmoniously incorporating the best and newest design trends.

Corporate Office Design

Within our team, you'll find VDAs who excel in designing modern, ergonomic workspaces. They integrate brand identity into interior elements and select office furniture that aligns with your vision.

Co-Working Space Design

Our assistants are skilled in crafting flexible and collaborative workspaces. They suggest amenities that foster community, offer flexible design solutions, and implement strategies to attract and retain tenants.

Cannabis-Related Projects

We have VDAs who are in the know about the evolving cannabis industry and specialize in designing contemporary, compliant, and inviting spaces.

Smart Home Design

Gain valuable insight and assistance with home automation or domotics, smart lighting, security systems, and user-friendly interfaces to create the ultimate modern living spaces.

E-Design

Our VDAs can virtually transform spaces, create inspiring mood boards, and curate detailed shopping lists to bring your vision to life with ease.

No matter your unique design niche, we're here to support you in your work. Whether you need assistance with administrative tasks or require a dedicated partner to help you bring your design visions to life, reach out to us, and we'll match you with a Virtual Design Assistant who is the perfect fit for your project. Your success is our priority, and we're excited to be a part of your design journey.

xx, Danae

Green & Gorgeous: 23 Eco-Friendly Vendors You Should Know About

Interior designers wield a unique power to shape a healthier planet through their design choices. From sustainable materials to energy-efficient solutions, every decision in the design process can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. So, I’ve been on the hunt for vendors that supply products that are non-toxic, ethically and sustainably sourced, and overall better for the earth and its inhabitants–while still being stunning! Here are my findings.

Furniture

The era of fast furniture is on its way out. Offer your clientele high-quality pieces that distinguish themselves through superior, non-toxic, and ethically derived materials. Make choices that resonate with our collective well-being and are engineered for lasting durability.

Maiden Home, a woman-founded brand, offers an array of sustainable and ethically sound furniture, which, in addition, boasts an incredibly stylish and timeless aesthetic.

West Elm uses a glossary of symbols to indicate the fair trade, handcrafted, and sustainably sourced attributes of their products, helping you make informed sourcing decisions.

Medley specializes in crafting exquisite sofas, beds, and other furnishings using domestically sourced hardwoods from forests certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and solid bamboo, placing ethical craftsmanship at the forefront.

The Citizenry showcases a delicious assortment of ethical furniture created from thoughtfully selected quality materials like vegetable-tanned leather, solid wood, and linen, alongside decorative pieces.

You may know Etsy for things like monogrammed gifts, but more and more sellers who reclaim and upcycle furniture are diversifying their unique offerings, and it’s a great way to support small businesses.

Textiles

Look for textiles created using environmentally conscious methods, including the use of sustainably sourced materials like organic cotton, hemp, or recycled fibers, and gentle dyes.

MadeTrade offers a whole host of “ethical, sustainable, and beautiful” furniture, decor, and textile items, including bedding and rugs.

Armadillo introduces minimalist, elegantly designed rugs crafted from sustainable materials such as wool and jute, proudly holding the distinction of being a Certified B Corporation™️.

Minna, another certified B Corp, collaborates with artisans from Central and South America to create exquisite home goods utilizing traditional techniques and vintage, as well as natural textiles.

Lorena Canals presents a stunning collection of non-toxic, machine-washable area rugs handcrafted by artisans in northern India who exclusively use recycled and natural fibers and non-harmful dyes.

Lighting

The notion of sustainable lighting implies the use of energy-efficient LED light bulbs, materials derived from local and natural sources, or repurposed and recycled materials.

Schoolhouse specializes in crafting enduring, energy-efficient products for various areas within homes, spanning fans, clocks, and lighting fixtures.

Stickbulb offers lighting systems which are crafted from sustainable materials locally sourced from the greater southern New York region, resulting in a sleek, minimalistic collection of fixtures.

Sin has a fascinating terracotta and stoneware collection, while klaylife has clay beaded lighting created by a community of women in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa.

Flooring

More environmentally conscious flooring options may involve sustainable materials such as wood, stone, recycled glass, natural linoleum, or even cork. Traditional flooring can introduce VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air, including known and suspected carcinogens like formaldehyde and benzene.

Interface provides a range of flooring solutions encompassing luxury vinyl tiles and carpet tiles, all of which carry a series of certifications endorsing their eco-friendliness.

Aged Woods collaborates with designers to achieve visually striking reclaimed wood flooring.

True to its name, Sustainable Flooring offers diverse sustainable flooring alternatives, from cork to bamboo.

Paint

Eco-friendly paints exhibit minimal or zero presence of toxins and VOCs, promoting both human health and environmental well-being.

Benjamin Moore has their Eco Spec line with zero VOCs and zero emissions.

Sherwin Williams has a couple of Zero VOC Interior Latex options within their ProMar line.

ECOS Paints delivers non-toxic, Zero VOC paints for a wide variety of applications, including an Air Purifying Paint.

Portola Paints offers both Low and Zero VOC paints, depending on the finish.

Wall Finishes

Opt for wall finishes without harmful chemicals, and that leave a minimal environmental footprint throughout their lifecycle.

Burke Decor carries a large number of eco-friendly wallpapers under their own name, as well as from several other manufacturers.

Tile Club has numerous recycled glass tile options to choose from.

Naturewall is an FSC® accredited business offering wallcovering solutions such as reclaimed wood planks and panels, among others.

Many of the above-listed vendors also carry eco-friendly items in other categories, so I would encourage you to look around each website. I hope I’ve helped to prove that it’s possible to choose environmentally kinder options without sacrificing style. It’s a win for all of us!

xx, Danae

How to Create a Digital Detox Plan Without Pausing Your Life

From project management to style inspiration to networking, interior designers rely heavily on screens. And at the end of a long work day, sometimes you just want to unwind with social media or TV. However, this constant exposure to screens can lead to headaches, strained eyes, sleep troubles, and an overall feeling of disconnect. If you find yourself yearning for a break and seeking a sense of grounding amidst the digital chaos, you're not alone. Keep reading for 5 practical ways to step away from the screen without compromising your productivity.

1. Practice Mindful Digital Usage

Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media or endlessly browsing the internet, practice intentional and mindful digital usage. Set a specific purpose for using your devices and limit the time spent on non-essential activities (e.g. 15 minutes for design inspo or funny videos). There are likely time usage control settings in your phone’s own system, as well as within popular social media apps, to help you snap out of it.

2. Establish Digital-Free Mornings and Evenings

Begin and end your day without immediately reaching for your phone or computer. Set your phone aside after turning off the alarm, or consider using an alarm clock separate from your phone. Use the morning to set intentions, practice mindfulness, or do some light stretching or meditation. In the evenings, wind down by journaling or enjoying a relaxing bath. If that sounds tough, just commit to the first and last 5 minutes of your day, and see how even a little time will make a big difference!

3. Design a Tech-Free Oasis

Designate a space in your home or office that is entirely free from screens and digital distractions. At home, your bedroom might be a good candidate, and you can make it cozy with soft lighting and tactile elements like books, plants, or artwork to engage your senses. At your office, any nook will do. This space can serve as a sanctuary you can retreat to for relaxation, reflection, and creative thinking.

4. Plan Screen-Free Meals

Make a conscious effort to stay off your phone during mealtimes. Instead, fully immerse yourself in the experience of eating, whether during your work day or outside of working hours, whether alone or accompanied. Savor the flavors, engage in conversation with loved ones, and appreciate the simple pleasure of nourishing your body and mind.

5. Engage in Analog Hobbies

Rediscover the joy of analog hobbies and activities that don't involve screens. Think about analog activities you can do instead of reaching your phone at different times throughout the day. For example, why not join a book club and read to wind down after a long day? Try a hobby like painting or DIY projects as a creative outlet, or try volunteering on weekends to socialize with others in a fulfilling way. Activities like these provide a much-needed break from technology while allowing you to tap into your creativity, connect, and unwind.

In a nutshell, embracing mindfulness and intentionality in your screen time is the key to naturally reducing its hold on your life. By replacing screen activities with alternative options, even if it initially feels challenging, you'll provide much-needed respite for your eyes and mind, while rediscovering genuine connections that may have been missing. Start small, and you’ll remember how satisfying it is to spend more time in the analog world!

xx, Danae

A Breakdown of 7 Software Solutions for Your Interior Design Business

Navigating the business of interior design often feels like an ongoing journey of trial and error. Perhaps you've found yourself switching between various programs and platforms, seeking that elusive efficiency. The nagging feeling that there must be a resource out there to help you avoid redundant work and prevent important details from slipping through the cracks is all too familiar. Well, good news – I've done some of the homework for you. In this article, you'll find an overview of the most promising players in the realm of project management software. Let's dive in!

1. StyleRow

• Who it's for: Interior designers and design professionals

• What's great about it: StyleRow offers a seamless platform that combines project management with sourcing and procurement. Its powerful integrations with industry suppliers and manufacturers make it a one-stop solution for managing projects from conception to completion.

• Considerations to note: The learning curve for fully utilizing all features can be steep for beginners.

• Pricing: StyleRow offers a free version with limited features, and premium plans start at $49/month. Try their 14-day free trial.

2. Dubsado

• Who it's for: Service-based businesses including interior designers

• What's great about it: Dubsado is renowned for its customizable forms, contracts, and automation features. It enables designers to streamline client onboarding, track project progress, and manage payments, all in one platform.

• Considerations to note: The user interface can be overwhelming initially, and some users might find the design customization options a bit limited.

• Pricing: Dubsado offers a free trial with limited features, and plans start at $20/month or $200/year.

3. Monday

• Who it's for: Teams of all types, including interior design teams

• What's great about it: Monday is a highly visual and versatile platform that helps teams manage tasks, projects, and workflows. With customizable templates, it's easy for designers to tailor the platform to their specific needs.

• Considerations to note: The pricing can be relatively high for smaller design firms, and the learning curve might be steeper for some users.

• Pricing: Monday offers various pricing tiers, starting at $0 for 2 seats or $24/seat per month for unlimited seats. You can try most of their plans with a 14-day free trial.

4. Materlog

• Who it's for: Interior designers and architects

• What's great about it: Materlog is designed specifically for design professionals, offering procurement tracking and supplier communication services to take those tasks off your plate.

• Considerations to note: Some users might miss more features such as visual presentations of selections by room.

• Pricing: Materlog starts at $45 per month, and they currently have a waitlist. You can also contact them for a tailored pricing plan.

5. Alcove

• Who it's for: Interior designers, builders, and purchasing agents

• What's great about it: Alcove combines project management with visual collaboration. Designers can create mood boards, gather feedback, automate tracking, and manage orders and financials seamlessly, all in a visually appealing environment. It even offers Gmail integration.

• Considerations to note: It’s a newer platform and, consequently, not as tried-and-true as some others.

• Pricing: Plans start at $75/month. Try their 30-day free trial.

6. Gather

• Who it's for: Mid- to large-size interior design teams

• What's great about it: Gather is designed to streamline the procurement and tracking of FF&E. It helps designers manage specifications, documentation, orders, and tracking in a user-friendly way. Gather includes useful features like a clipper tool and messaging with team members and clients.

• Considerations to note: It may be cost-prohibitive for smaller design firms.

• Pricing: Gather’s plans start at $165/monthly (annual commitment) for 5 seats, and they also offer custom pricing for teams larger than 10. A free trial can be requested.

7. Gold Star Pro

• Who it's for: Interior designers and design firms

• What's great about it: Gold Star Pro offers an all-in-one back-end business management solution for everything from social media content scheduling to Facebook and Google ads to email communication. Its interface makes it easy for designers to stay organized and keep clients informed. Basically, it takes care of the essential tasks that are furthest from actually designing.

• Considerations to note: While this software effectively aids in managing various backend aspects of business operations and promotion, it doesn’t include many of the features that design project management programs often do include, such as product libraries or order tracking.

• Pricing: Gold Star Pro offers a 14-day free trial, with plans starting at $97/month.

As you can see, a diverse array of programs is emerging, aimed at alleviating the operational demands of the business facet within the realm of interior design. Fortunately, you can take advantage of the free trials that these offer and find the program that is most aligned with your own firm. Discovering the perfect match has the potential to be transformative for your interior design business!

xx, Danae

Join the Conversation: Bridging the Gaps in Interior Design Software

Whether you're a seasoned industry expert or a budding designer, the demand for comprehensive software solutions is on the rise. Despite the availability of numerous popular platforms, there persists a longing among interior designers for a system that bridges the functional gaps and takes their productivity to new heights. As an advocate for enhancing the industry, I believe it's time to initiate a meaningful conversation and identify the missing pieces. By doing so, we can inspire developers to bridge these gaps and create the ultimate all-in-one solution that seamlessly integrates project management and administrative features, meeting the common functional needs sought after by designers like you.

I invite you to explore this (surely incomplete) list of functions that I repeatedly hear designers seeking in a project management program. What would you add?

• Task Tracking

• Time Tracking

• Procurement Tracking

• Project Timeline & Milestones

• Team Communication

• Client Communication

• Vendor Portfolio

• Material & Product Library

• Clipper Tool Extension

• Design Resource Library

• File Storage

• Moodboard & Presentation Creation

• 2D & 3D Drawing

• Budget Tracking

• Template Creation

• Invoicing & Purchase Orders

• Bookkeeping

• Performance Analytics

• Mobile App Compatibility

And to think these are just some of the many moving parts that designers juggle behind each beautiful project! Beyond these crucial functions, I often come across shared grievances from designers concerning the project management program they utilize. Do any of these hit close to home for you?

• Poor User Interface (UI) Design

• Limited Integration

• Complexity and Learning Curve

• Limited Collaboration and Communication Features

• Insufficient Customization

• High or Inflexible Pricing Plans

• Unreliable Customer Support

Calling all the visionary minds shaping the industry! It’s time to share your thoughts on the improvements and features you would like to see in interior design software. If you would like to participate in our questionnaire, feel free to draw inspiration from the points above that ring true for you or add your own unique insights. We’d love to hear from you!

We eagerly await your insights and thank you for being a part of this journey towards innovation and excellence in the interior design industry!

xx, Danae

Move Over Sunbathing; Have You Tried Forest Bathing?

What if I told you that there's a hidden oasis of relaxation, without the scorching UV rays and pesky sand, where you can disconnect from everyday noise and reconnect with nature? It’s time to try forest bathing!

What is Forest Bathing?

No, it's not taking a bath amidst the trees (though that could be quite an adventure!). Forest bathing, or "Shinrin-yoku" as it's known in Japan, is the practice of immersing yourself in the soothing embrace of nature, particularly the forest. It's not a bath in the traditional sense but more like a sensory soak in nature's serene beauty. The term was coined in Japan in the 1980s and has since gained popularity as an alternative form of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Not Your Average Hike

Unlike hiking or trekking, forest bathing doesn't involve conquering peaks or covering vast distances. It's a slow, mindful, and meditative experience. Imagine strolling leisurely through the woods, allowing yourself to be fully present in the moment, and embracing the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the forest. It's a chance to let go of stress, quiet the mind, and connect with nature on a deeper level.

Benefits of Forest Bathing

Beyond the obvious appeal of a relaxing experience (ecotherapy, anyone?), the forest air is filled with phytoncides, natural chemicals that support the immune system. Immersing yourself in nature can spark creativity and improve focus and clarity of thought. Being in nature also promotes better sleep quality, leading to more restorative rest.

How to Engage in Forest Bathing: A Gentle Guide

Choose your Destination: Find a forest or wooded area near you. It could be a local park, nature reserve, or any green space with plenty of trees. The more diverse the flora, the better.

Gear Up: You don’t need much; just be sure to dress for the weather, and consider bringing a picnic blanket, a journal with a pen, and snacks and water if you’ll be out for a while.

Disconnect to Reconnect: Leave behind the distractions of technology. Turn off your phone or put it on silent. This is your time to be present with nature, not with screens.

Use All Your Senses: As you walk, engage all your senses. Notice the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, the earthy aroma of the forest floor, and the feel of the bark against your fingertips. You can even place your bare feet on the earth for a “grounding” experience.

Find Your Spot: When you feel drawn to a particular spot, pause and stay there for a while. It could be near a stream, under a majestic tree, or wherever you feel most comfortable.

Be Mindful: Let your thoughts come and go like leaves floating downstream. Be fully present in the moment and observe without judgment.

Stunning Forest Bathing Destinations

The United States boasts an abundance of natural wonders, and several places are perfect for indulging in the magic of forest bathing, including:

• Redwood National and State Parks, California

• Acadia National Park, Maine

• Olympic National Park, Washington

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, and North Carolina

• Adirondack Park, New York

If you're planning to venture into a new or remote region for your forest bathing experience, it's wise to consider making it a group excursion for added safety. Fortunately, there's a growing availability of guided tours that can enhance your forest bathing journey, such as this one in Asheville, North Carolina, or this one in Honolulu, Hawaii.

However, you don’t need to embark on grand journeys to far-off destinations for a transformative experience. Whether you choose to wander alone or gather friends, start by taking small, mindful steps right in your local area. Explore the nearby parks, meander through wooded areas, and let the enchanting beauty of nature surround you. Happy forest bathing!

 xx, Danae

Feel Joy, Balance, and Abundance in Your Business with The Interior Design Standard

As you know, Elite Design Assistants takes pride in providing helpful tips, information, and resources to you about the interior design industry that will help you succeed in running the most fulfilling and profitable business possible. That’s why we want to share The Interior Design Standard with you! 

It’s time to get your structure and mindset in place so that you can fully step into your confidence as an entrepreneur. The Interior Design Standard is the ONLY program that provides a turnkey business model for a wildly profitable design firm.  

The Interior Design Standard was created by Sandra Funk, CEO and Creative Director of House of Funk, a boutique interior design and renovation firm that has award-winning designs featured in publications such as Elle Décor, House Beautiful, The Huffington Post, Aspire Design and Home, and Luxe Interiors + Design. 

WHY IS THE INTERIOR DESIGN STANDARD FOR YOU?

With hundreds of designers saying the Standard has changed their lives, we wanted to break down why you should be looking at this program. It’s for you if…

• You’re tired of all the different ways of doing business and you’re ready for ONE tried and true business model that both you and your clients will love. 

• You’re stuck in the day-to-day tasks and lack the systems and processes to get your team running like a well-oiled machine while you’re out landing dream clients. 

• You’re looking for a trusted advisor to give you the step-by-step process that’s been tested over a 20+ year career and by hundreds of designers. 

If any of the above resonates, The Interior Design Standard is for you!

WHAT’S INSIDE THE INTERIOR DESIGN STANDARD?

Delivered in a friendly digital format, this program enables you to digest and implement at your own pace because you have lifetime access! The program includes 6 modules showing you all the things you need to take your business from surviving to thriving. 

Modules Include: 

• Module 1: Master the Tech to Catapult Ahead

• Module 2: Confidently Price Your Services for Ideal Clients

• Module 3: Attract & Land Ideal Clients

• Module 4: Scale with Streamlined Processes

• Module 5: Improve Your Buying Power & Trade Relationships

• Module 6: Develop Your Dream Team

Editable process and contract templates along with live virtual community events, access to the ultimate design community: the Standard Inner Circle, and 4 expert lessons make this program AMAZING!

Expert Lessons Include: 

• Budgeting for Profit with Peter Lang of the Designer CPA

• Mindset Matters with Jordan Gill of Systems Saved Me

• Closing the Sale with LuAnn Nigara of A Well-Designed Business

• Automation for Success with Nicole Heymer of Glory & Brand

STILL THINKING ABOUT IT? 

Maybe you desire to work with fewer, larger projects, to break into your dream market, or to finally set up systems. Whatever your reason, if you’re determined to transform your firm into a thriving interior design business that will run so efficiently that you will have time to do what you love (the design part!), this program is for you! 

AN ELITE BONUS

Any NEW designer who signs up using my link will receive 5 FREE HOURS of Admin Services from Elite Design Assistants! Upon registering for The Interior Design Standard using our link, please email me at danae@elitedesignassistants.com to take advantage of this great deal!

The next Standard Session begins on September 24, 2023, and seats are limited to ensure a high-quality community experience!

Get joy, balance, and abundance in your interior design business by reserving your spot today!

RESERVE YOUR SPOT! 

As always, please feel free to reach out if you have questions!

Have a wonderful day! 

xx, Danae