You “cut your teeth” at several notable design firms. What knowledge has been most helpful to your clients at Studio AM?
Establishing and nurturing client trust is invaluable. I learned early on that successful design isn’t about imposing my vision but, conversely, understanding the client’s. I use this knowledge as the foundation of every new project, taking time to discover who my client is, what they love, and tailoring the design to fit their desires.
How do you like to work with your design clients?
Establishing trust and fostering free-flowing communication is key. I stay in regular contact with clients through emails, texts, and calls. I also encourage them to share visual examples of their preferences with me, whether it is an image from a magazine or a photo from Pinterest, which allows them to feel heard and keeps them engaged throughout the process. Because interior design is multifaceted, I like to encourage my clients to go visit various showrooms, galleries, and antique stores with me, locally or out of state. It becomes a collaborative journey—we create better together!
You offer a full-service team; what benefits does a high-caliber firm provide your clients?
A design project has many moving parts, and working with a full-service team like ours offers instantaneous collaboration, which elevates our ability to offer a seamless, efficient, and more cohesive, refined outcome. Every moving part works in harmony, ensuring the final design is a true reflection of collective expertise.
You specialize in custom furniture, decorative lighting, art procurement, and installation. Where does one start to achieve a client’s personal vision?
It starts with understanding the client’s “why” as well as their preferences. I like to compile visuals that outline a client’s likes and dislikes, creating a visual “dream folder” that we can revisit throughout the process. Patterns will usually emerge from this exercise, helping to guide the design process and shape their ideal space.
What influences are inspiring you now and how does that impact your work moving forward?
The Pacific Northwest offers an ideal palette from which to be inspired and to create. I love working with local artisans, whose unique offerings add unmatched layers to a design project. Our region is filled with so much creative talent, incorporating hints of PNW design into a project, when aligned with a client’s vision, can enhance an already incredible design.
In your opinion, what is the most fundamental element of interior design? Where do you start on a new project?
I believe that functional space is the most critical element of interior design and perhaps the foundation of all design. Understanding how a homeowner intends to use their home is paramount. Every project begins with considering the purpose and function of the space.
You’ve built a notable body of residential work. What are some major takeaways from designing homes?
I make it a practice to never impose my own personal tastes on a client and always verify a design direction with a client before proceeding. Doubling back to ensure everyone is on the same page is never a waste of time. Also, taking the time to listen to a client about their daily routines, their space requirements, and design wishes, creates a successful outcome.
What are a few indulgences you like integrating into a space?
Incorporating unique, unexpected pieces that will surprise clients. It is a charming conversation starter with their guests.
Favorite way to spend a weekend in the Northwest?
I love my family, so anything that surrounds me with them is my preference. We spend time at the horse barn with our daughter or cheering on our son at sporting events.
