designer insight: interior designers

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER2015 athome 51

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION DESIGNERQ&A with Design Professionals

INSIGHT

DESIGNER INSIGHT:Interior DesignersA Q&A with Susanna Salk

When it comes to selecting images for your books, what special elements do you look for in a room?I suppose it comes down to one of three words—Wow. Huh! Yum—and some rooms often combine all three words. It's these rooms I often refer to over and over in my mind.

What urges you to be more interesting with your decor?Whimsy. It doesn’t mean bragging about itself with showy pink kitchens, or crazy sculptures dangling from the ceiling. Whimsical expresses the owner‘s personality and always trumps any design trend.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh and inspired?Your design eye is a muscle; train it by exposing yourself to as many images as possible. Learn what you love; then embrace it. Remember that ”supposed to’’ is one of the most dangerous phrases in all of decorating.

READY FOR MORE INSPIRATION?Finding an interior designer with the style that‘s right for you takes patience, research and lots of interviewing. On the following pages, Susanna Salk interviews this area's top interior designers to help you � nd someone who can help bring your vision to life.

Phot

o by

: Joh

n G

ruen

Inside Susanna’s book

Whether she’s designing a house or helping a client discover a room’s full potential, Susanna Salk—design expert, stylist, stager and author of six books—helps her clients � nd short and long-term solutions to weed out the drab and bring in the fab! Here, Susanna shares some of her key design principles when creating a space that re� ects your personal style.

Color and pattern: Express yourself and take risks. Use colors and patterns that you wouldn’t normally use.

Accessorize, Accessorize: It’s the little details that create the big moments.

Follow your heart: Create interiors that are deeply personal to who you are.

Create your own dream � le: Scour home decorating books, magazines and websites, and tag photos that inspire you. A designer can learn a lot about your style through your photos.

52 athomefc.com

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? Mark Hampton. He designed with classic pieces and a cutting edge.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room? Benjamin Moore, vanilla milkshake, OC-59. It adds a subtle color and depth to the room.

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room what would you advise? Paint has the most transformative effect on a room.

How do you share your design aesthetic with the world via social media? We have been using social

media for the past seven years to keep our followers up-to-date on what we are working on.

How can I network if I’m a designer living in a small city? Social media is a great way to network with other professionals.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh and inspired? I love spending time at the D&D Building and other design centers. There is nothing like seeing the actual pieces in person.

What do you try to accomplish at your � rst meeting with a new client? How do you walk the � ne line between being prepared but

also staying open? The goal of the first meeting is to try and find out as much as possible about the clients. We want to know what they like and just as important, what they don’t like. It’s a thrill to create their dream home, which ultimately is all about them. Being a good listener is vital to the success of the project.

How important is it for your clients to have a dream � le, and how do you recommend creating one? The most successful projects are with clients who take the time to locate photos of projects they like. A picture is worth a thousand words. Each person’s interpretation of the “California Look” is different. That can only be defined by photos.

Catherine CleareCatherine Cleare Interiors, LLC32 Field Point Road, Greenwich, CT | 203.454.9430 | cleareinteriors.com

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling?Mark Hampton. He designed with classic pieces and a cutting edge.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room?Benjamin Moore, vanilla milkshake, OC-59. It adds a subtle color and depth to the room.

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room what would you advise? Paint has the most transformative effect on a room.

How do you share your design aesthetic with the world via social media? We have been using social

media for the past seven years to keep our followers up-to-date on what we are working on.

How can I network if I’m a designer living in a small city? Social media is a great way to network with other professionals.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh and inspired? I love spending time at the D&D Building and other design centers. There is nothing like seeing the actual pieces in person.

What do you try to accomplish at your � rst meeting with a new client? How do you walk the � ne line between being prepared but

also staying open? The goal of the first meeting is to try and find out as much as possible about the clients. We want to know what they like and just as important, what they don’t like. It’s a thrill to create their dream home, which ultimately is all about them. Being a good listener is vital to the success of the project.

How important is it for your clients to have a dream � le, and how do you recommend creating one?The most successful projects are with clients who take the time to locate photos of projects they like. A picture is worth a thousand words. Each person’s interpretation of the “California Look” is different. That can only be defined by photos.

Catherine CleareCatherine Cleare Interiors, LLC32 Field Point Road, Greenwich, CT | 203.454.9430 | cleareinteriors.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONDESIGNERQ&A with Design Professionals

INSIGHT


Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? Hands down Jamie Drake and Candice Olson. They both think outside the box and take a concept beyond its fullest potential.

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room, what would you advise? To start, refurbish existing furniture. Changing the exterior of any piece of furniture will give it a completely different look, whether it’s a light, table, chairs, etc. If budget allows, you can completely change the look of a wall with wall covering. Also, I consider United House Wrecking my personal treasure chest. You can find so many beautiful pieces whether it’s furniture, lamps, rugs or accessories for incredible price points. Any of these components can dramatically change a room on a limited budget.

How do you get a nervous � rst-time client to believe in you? Confidence. I immediately share ideas to

Jody Myers-FierzColor Concept Theory27 Imperial Avenue #9Westport, CT203.826.9874 ColorConceptTheory.com

reassure them that their home will look fantastic. Generally, I start small, so they have a chance to get to know me and how the process works. I explain that the process can initially seem overwhelming, but once we’ve started they quickly realize how fun and inspiring the project truly is. In the end, they love the result and that’s the goal.

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? Hands down Jamie Drake and Candice Olson. They both think outside the box and take a concept beyond its fullest potential.

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room, what would you advise? To start, refurbish existing furniture. Changing the exterior of any piece of furniture will give it a completely different look, whether it’s a light, table, chairs, etc. If budget allows, you can completely change the look of a wall with wall covering. Also, I consider United House Wrecking my personal treasure chest. You can find so many beautiful pieces whether it’s furniture, lamps, rugs or accessories for incredible price points. Any of these components can dramatically change a room on a limited budget.

How do you get a nervous � rst-time client to believe in you? Confidence. I immediately share ideas to

Jody Myers-FierzColor Concept Theory27 Imperial Avenue #9Westport, CT203.826.9874 ColorConceptTheory.com

reassure them that their home will look fantastic. Generally,I start small, so they have a chance to get to know me and how the process works. I explain that the process caninitially seem overwhelming,but once we’ve started they quickly realize how fun and inspiring the project truly is.In the end, they love the result and that’s the goal.

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? I do not have one design muse. Each client is different so I try to create a look specific to each project. I gather ideas and inspiration in a variety of ways and combine them in an eclectic way.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room? Benjamin Moore #972, Alaskan Skies

How do you share your design aesthetic with the world via social media? The most important social media site that I use is Houzz, which I keep

Connie CooperConnie Cooper Designs58 High Point RoadWestport, CT203.256.9183conniecooperdesigns.com

updated with professional photos of my work. I also will post images on Facebook of projects in progress as well as on a variety of other interior design sites.

How important is it for your clients to have a dream � le, and how do you recommend creating one? I always suggest that my clients start clipping photos from Shelter magazines of rooms, colors and furnishings that they like. They can also create idea books on Houzz and share them with me through my Houzz account. It is really important that I understand what they like, so that I can create their dream home.

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? I do not have one design muse. Each client is different so I try to create a look specific to each project. I gather ideas and inspiration in a variety of ways and combine them in an eclectic way.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room?Benjamin Moore #972, Alaskan Skies

How do you share your design aesthetic with the world via social media? The most important social media site that I use is Houzz, which I keep

Connie CooperConnie Cooper Designs58 High Point RoadWestport, CT203.256.9183conniecooperdesigns.com

updated with professional photos of my work. I also will post images on Facebook of projects in progress as well as on a variety of other interior design sites.

How important is it for your clients to have a dream � le, and how do you recommend creating one? I always suggest that my clients start clipping photos from Shelter magazines of rooms, colors and furnishings that they like. They can also create idea books on Houzz and share them with me through my Houzz account. It is really important that I understand what they like, so that I can create their dream home.


INSIGHT

54 athomefc.com

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room, what would you advise? Pillows and lighting can each transform a space. Lighting is the key to setting the mood. A contemporary light fixture can transform a traditional space. Pillows can also change the feel

of a room by introducing a pop of color or a different scale in pattern or texture.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh? My eyes are always open. I am always looking at, thinking about and absorbing design. I may be inspired by another designer’s work or simply everyday objects. I have a passion for art and am constantly visiting galleries and shows, which prove inspirational as well.

How important is it for your clients to have a dream � le, and how do you recommend creating one? Pinterest and Houzz are great resources for ideas, and it is easy for clients to create digital files of what they like. We can

Susan AlisbergAlisberg Parker Architects, LLC222 Sound Beach AvenueOld Greenwich, CT203.637.8730alisbergparker.com

then quickly get to know their aesthetic. We can often see a common ground in disparate images that they might not recognize. It is not critical for clients to do this, but it helps us understand their likes and dislikes, which makes us more efficient in responding to them.

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room, what would you advise? Pillows and lighting can each transform a space. Lighting is the key to setting the mood. A contemporary light fixture can transform a traditional space. Pillows can also change the feel

of a room by introducing a pop of color or a different scale in pattern or texture.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh? My eyes are always open. I am always looking at, thinking about and absorbing design. I may be inspired by another designer’s work or simply everyday objects. I have a passion for art and am constantly visiting galleries and shows, which prove inspirational as well.

How important is it for your clients to have a dream � le, and how do you recommend creating one? Pinterest and Houzz are great resources for ideas, and it is easy for clients to create digital files of what they like. We can

Susan AlisbergAlisberg Parker Architects, LLC222 Sound Beach AvenueOld Greenwich, CT203.637.8730alisbergparker.com

then quickly get to know their aesthetic. We can often see a common ground in disparate images that they might not recognize. It is not critical for clients to do this, but it helps us understand their likes and dislikes, which makes us more efficient in responding to them.

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you, no matter what job you are tackling? Diana Vreeland and Iris Apfel—two women who embody their passion and individuality.

How do you share your design aesthetic with the world via social media? I use Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest

How do you get a nervous � rst-time client to believe in you? I encourage my clients to reflect upon what images make them feel happy, comfortable and beautiful. A Hermès scarf, a travel collectible or a treasured heirloom.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh and inspired?

I am always collecting image inspirations from fashion and interior design magazines, art shows, design books. The Met’s CHINA Through the Looking Glass show is a perfect example.

What do you try to accomplish at your � rst meeting with a new client? How do you walk the � ne line between being prepared but also staying open? I greet each person I meet with my sense of ease, elegance and fun! I evaluate my clients’ sense of comfort and style. I encourage them to incorporate their personal statement into their living environment. Collaboration is what I do best.

Valerie LynnValerie Lynn Design Stamford, CT203.329.0550ValerieLynnDesign.com

How best to navigate the choppy waters of a couple who disagree about a design direction and who are also both actively involved? I hone in on design elements that both individuals share an affinity for. I look to their art, fashions, collections and travel experiences.

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you, no matter what job you are tackling? Diana Vreeland and Iris Apfel—two women who embody their passion and individuality.

How do you share your design aesthetic with the world via social media? I use Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Pinterest

How do you get a nervous � rst-time client to believe in you? I encourage my clients to reflect upon what images make them feel happy, comfortable and beautiful. A Hermès scarf, a travel collectible or a treasured heirloom.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh and inspired?

I am always collecting image inspirations from fashion and interior design magazines, art shows, design books. The Met’s CHINA Through the Looking Glass show is a Looking Glass show is a Looking Glassperfect example.

What do you try to accomplish at your � rst meeting with a new client? How do you walk the � ne line between being prepared but also staying open? I greet each person I meet with my sense of ease, elegance and fun! I evaluate my clients’ sense of comfort and style. I encourage them to incorporate their personal statement into their living environment. Collaboration is what I do best.

Valerie LynnValerie Lynn Design Stamford, CT203.329.0550ValerieLynnDesign.com

How best to navigate the choppy waters of a couple who disagree about a design direction and who are also both actively involved? I hone in on design elements that both individuals share an affinity for. I look to their art, fashions, collections and travel experiences.


INSIGHT


Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? Kelly Wearstler. I love her use of color and her adventurous spirit in interior design. She inspires me to always try to encourage my clients to come out of their comfort zone.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room? California Paints —“Cloud” DEC791—it may not look good in the fan deck; but put it on the walls, and it is the most beautiful clear gray!

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room, what would you advise? I do have clients that say exactly that, which is just fine and a challenge I always welcome! Anyone can decorate when money isn’t an issue—that’s easy. I have taken many a room and brought it to life with the use of pillows, throws and carefully placed art and accessories.

How important is it for your clients to have a

Jan HiltzJan Hiltz Interiors LLC21 Bridge SquareWestport, CT 203.331.5578Janhiltzinteriorsllc.com

dream � le, and how do you recommend creating one? Well, this could go both ways. It could be helpful to give a general idea about color and style, but it can be so specific that it takes the creative juice out of the process. I don’t find it important—my clients’ generally like to see what I will come up with!

PHOTOGRAPH BY DEBRA SOMERVILLE

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? Kelly Wearstler. I love her use of color and her adventurous spirit in interior design. She inspires me to always try to encourage my clients to come out of their comfort zone.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room?California Paints —“Cloud” DEC791—it may not look good in the fan deck; but put it on the walls, and it is the most beautiful clear gray!

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room, what would you advise? I do have clients that say exactly that, which is just fine and a challenge I always welcome! Anyone can decorate when money isn’t an issue—that’s easy. I have taken many a room and brought it to life with the use of pillows, throws and carefully placed art and accessories.

How important is it for your clients to have a

Jan HiltzJan Hiltz Interiors LLC21 Bridge SquareWestport, CT 203.331.5578Janhiltzinteriorsllc.com

dream � le, and how do you recommend creating one? Well, this could go both ways. It could be helpful to give a general idea about color and style, but it can be so specific that it takes the creative juice out of the process. I don’t find it important—my clients’ generally like to see what I will come up with!

PHOTOGRAPH BY DEBRA SOMERVILLE

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room? Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter.

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room what would you advise? It’s essential to start with a plan and prioritize. We would

suggest painting first for an almost instant fresh look, and then splurging on one or two really special items that you love. The remaining budget can be used to fill in.

How do you get a nervous � rst-time client to believe in you? Our sensitivity and patience with clients seems to build the necessary trust. Creative freedom usually comes quickly when clients see our initial ideas.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh and inspired? We’re passionate about learning what’s new in materials, resources and technology. We seek out innovative vendors, peruse magazines and attend numerous trade shows and events.

Deb Nicoud and Dina SpaidalNicoud and Spaidal InteriorsFair� eld, CT203.659.0402nicoudandspaidal.com

What do you try to accomplish at your � rst meeting with a new client? How do you walk the � ne line between being prepared but also staying open? Our goal is simple. To listen, observe and walk away with a clear understanding of our clients’ ideas and expectations, what they love and don’t love, and of course, their budget.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room? Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter.

If I only had $5,000 to spend on one room what would you advise? It’s essential to start with a plan and prioritize. We would

suggest painting first for an almost instant fresh look, and then splurging on one or two really special items that you love. The remaining budget can be used to fill in.

How do you get a nervous � rst-time client to believe in you? Our sensitivity and patience with clients seems to build the necessary trust. Creative freedom usually comes quickly when clients see our initial ideas.

How do you keep your visual eye fresh and inspired? We’re passionate about learning what’s new in materials, resources and technology. We seek out innovative vendors, peruse magazines and attend numerous trade shows and events.

Deb Nicoud and Dina SpaidalNicoud and Spaidal InteriorsFair� eld, CT203.659.0402nicoudandspaidal.com

What do you try to accomplish at your � rst meeting with a new client? How do you walk the � ne line between being prepared but also staying open? Our goal is simple. To listen, observe and walk away with a clear understanding of our clients’ ideas and expectations, what they love and don’t love, and of course, their budget.


INSIGHT

56 athomefc.com

Jill KalmanBella InteriorsWestport, CT203.645.1561 bella-interiors.com

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? My inspirations come mostly from architecture, textile patterns and color palettes.

Although I admire many famous designers—there is not one that influences every job I do.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room? Cornforth White by FARROW AND BALL

How do you share your design aesthetic with the world via social media? Facebook, Instagram and Houzz

How can I network if I’m a designer living in a small city? Get involved with community events, reach out to local press and publications, and of course, use social media.

How important is it for your clients to have a dream � le,

and how do you recommend creating one? It is beneficial. However, it does not always have to be that extensive. I can many times gain insight and direction for a client’s preferences just from a few photos. Houzz and Pinterest are great ways to create a digital dream file; and I also think a folder or binder of good old-fashioned magazine tear-outs works great!

Jill KalmanBella InteriorsWestport, CT203.645.1561 bella-interiors.com

Do you have a design muse, past or present, who continually inspires you no matter what job you are tackling? My inspirations come mostly from architecture, textile patterns and color palettes.

Although I admire many famous designers—there is not one that influences every job I do.

Is there a paint color that never lets you down, no matter the room?Cornforth White by FARROW AND BALL

How do you share your design aesthetic with the world via social media? Facebook, Instagram and Houzz

How can I network if I’m a designer living in a small city? Get involved with community events, reach out to local press and publications, and of course, use social media.

How important is it for your clients to have a dream � le,

and how do you recommend creating one? It is beneficial. However, it does not always have to be that extensive. I can many times gain insight and direction for a client’s preferences just from a few photos. Houzz and Pinterest are great ways to create a digital dream file; and I also think a folder or binder of good old-fashioned magazine tear-outs works great!


INSIGHT

special advertising section?DESIGNER INSIGHT

we’re featuring...

Kitchen + Bath Designin our November/December issue

want to be a part of our next

Contact Clare Blasius to find out how you can profile your [email protected] or 203.571.1657

designer insight: interior designers

Documents