Value Lessons in Interior Design

Lots of people are quite capable of making a room ‘pretty’.  (You can substitute the words:  handsome, attractive, pleasing, etc.)  Adding value might be a totally different story.  In fact, ‘value’ can have a lot of different interpretations. Value is not always something you can put your finger on.  It certainly can mean the quality of the product is there, but to me, this story goes much deeper.

I was reminded of this, while speaking to a client this morning.  We don’t have anything currently in the works, I was just catching up with her and to see what has been happening in her life.  (It means a lot to be able to continue the relationships, over the years.)  We also spoke a little about my projects and she remembered reading, on my Facebook page, about a recent disappointment I had experienced with a potential client cancelling a meeting. 

(Just in case you didn’t know, the mock-playing of the violin symbolizes when it was used to accompany certain silent films in order to symbolize melodrama. It’s usually tied to the tune, “Hearts and Flowers”, by Tobiani, and the tune is often hummed while miming.  I could almost hear it in the background while writing this post.) 

I usually don’t try to fixate on such things but I think I was perplexed as to the sudden change of heart.  I did know the couple initially planned to hold meetings with local designers and expected to do it without being assessed a fee.  I spend a bit of time, on the front end, preparing for working meetings and have developed a system to make the best use of time. I had pre-confirmed the initial visit services I could provide, including a visit with a reputable builder/contractor.  The potential clients were looking to make some structural changes and we needed to know if some of the items they were proposing would be feasible, as well as code compliant.  The only way to know was to visit the site.

All was agreed upon, weeks in advance . . .including a small fee to cover the trip and the value of my advice and experience.  The appointment was twice-confirmed with great enthusiasm.  They came into town and then, two days before our meeting, I was emailed to say the appointment was to be cancelled.  A decision had been made without any further discussion – or meeting. 

My reaction?  A bit disappointed that my time and experience was not perceived to be of value, as well as that of the contractor and his project manager, who had been added to assist with the visit. 

 

My conclusion?  Every dog, cat – and designer - has his or her day. Things have a way of working out for the best.

Meanwhile, I’ll get back to the conversation with my client.  She reminded me of the value I do bring to each design meeting and person’s home.  She’s the ultimate cheerleader and you always walk away feeling as if you’ve won the “Person of The Year” award, when she really is the one who should receive it. 

My client shared with me she remembered how I educated her about upholstery fabrics and that thickness was not always the best indicator of durability.  I explained to her about the Wyzenbeek testing process and the more double-rubs a fabric passes, the more strength it exhibits against abrasion and wear.  A fabric, passing 30,000 double rubs, for example, is considered to be heavy duty and can still be a fine weave.  We made sure to examine each option for her furniture.

Why was this so important?  She has one of these fellows in her life . . .

. . . Almost 160 pounds of furry, black, drooling Newfoundland love.  He’s part of her family and resides both indoors and out.

While all of this might seem to be a no-brainer, with her having such a large dog, fast forward a couple of years later and now her daughter’s cats are "co-existing” with the Newfie.  (Tolerating might be a better term.)  If you’re not a cat aficionado, I’ll just say they love to rub up against all corners, with both body and paw pads.  It’s their way of saying, “this is mine and you can’t have it”.  Now just imagine two cats trying to let the dog know who’s boss.  That’s a lot of rubbing!  My client said I must have had some ESP when it came to the “double rub” test.  (Insert:  smile.)

Can I just tell you how awesome it made me feel to know, over two years after she purchased her upholstery from me, she still feels she received something “extra” in exchange for her investment?  She can enjoy her interiors without concern they’re off limits to the regular family members, as well as the fur family members.  She feels that she has a sanctuary, called “home”.  She also felt someone missed out on a great experience in receiving my assistance.  (Insert:  humble thanks.)

Beauty only touches the surface . . .

. . . . value goes much deeper. 

To my client . . . Thank you for recognizing the value of my services and time.  For those who might consider asking for my help, I appreciate the opportunity to share this story with you.  And . . . Thank you for your time.

All my best ~ Wanda

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Interior Design – On A Wing and A Prayer

I found this beautiful little fellow floating around, near my garden. 

(The photo is a little blurred.  This happy fellow just couldn’t stay still!)

While stopping to admire how Mother Nature so carefully anointed his wings, and with such a beautiful pattern of design and color, it reminded me about the beginnings of my design business.  This month, my little interior design company will be celebrating its 14th anniversary!  I remember being so proud of myself, the day I decided to spread my wings to take that flight.  My part-time venture had become a full-time profession . . . no more time for the other “day job”.  I had some wonderfully supportive clients, who thankfully, are still with me today.

(Sometimes, we need a little shelter from the storms.)

Since that time, the world of design has seen many changes – not unlike other industries.  I’ve steered my business through some interesting times.  I’ll never forget being in the car when a friend called me, on September 11th, to tell me about the attacks on the United States.  I was on my way to a client meeting.  We all wondered what would happen next.  For my generation, it was our Pearl Harbor.  Now, we’ve been in an economic period, where only our parents or grandparents might have a remembrance of such a time of challenge for so many.  We are probably still wondering, “What’s next?”

(We always get along better, in life, having a partner.  Thank you to my dear husband, Roger, for always being there for me.)

So . . . on the days when I’m asking myself that question, while planning for the future of my business, I have to think back to when it first began.  I remember the folks who have been my cheerleaders, the wonderful experiences I’ve had along the way, and this beautiful butterfly reminded me of something important . . .  There’s something to be said for moving forward on a wing and a prayer.

Thank you for helping me to soar!

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Perfectly, Imperfect Interior Design ~ A Designer’s “Coffee Talk”

Life isn’t perfect.  How often do we hear those words being said?  How often; however, do we use the word “perfect” in correlation with the world of interior design?  I’m guilty of using it, too.  “Oh, that looks perfect.”, “It will be the perfect solution.”  If you’re an interior designer, do you ever use this in describing your work ~ or the process of it ~ or a product?  If you are a consumer, what are your expectations and how are they defined?  What does “perfect” really mean to you?  Join me for a cup of coffee and a chat!

Sometimes, we have to go back to the dictionary to see what we are saying, so “perfectly”:

Definitions of perfect (adj)

per·fect

1. without faults: without errors, flaws, or faults
2. complete and whole: complete and lacking nothing essential
3. excellent or ideal: excellent or ideal in every way

For most of us, it’s in our make-up to feel we can accomplish at least one, if not all three of the above.  I’m ever reminded, in my years of owning an interior design practice, it’s not realistic to go through life – or the design process, expecting it to always happen.  There are too many sides to this equation.  Too many variables.

When the phone call first comes in, regarding a potential project or a consultation, the underlying reason is there is a problem to be fixed.  In fact, one of my college courses, at ECU, was called “Problems in Interiors”.  The premise of my course was, if there were no problems to be solved, there would be no need for design.  Instead of referring to this as a problem, I should probably call it, “The desire to live in a better world.”, but that’s a wee bit long, even for this prolific writer!  Miriam Webster always defines things best, so I’ll pop this in, for good measure:

Definitions of problem (n)

prob·lem

1. difficulty: a difficult situation, matter, or person
2. puzzle to be solved: a question or puzzle that needs to be solved
3. statement requiring mathematical solution: a statement or proposition requiring an algebraic, geometric, or other mathematical solution

(Mmmm!  Perfect and problem.  Sounds like a potential oil and vinegar mix, doesn’t it?)

Getting back to the “problem” of perfection . . . First, is it the actual physical space, which needs to be addressed, or is it the inhabitant of a dwelling?  If we are all being perfectly transparent . . . It usually is the reaction, feeling, comfort level, or functional impact, experienced by the inhabitant, in regards to their environment, which facilitates the call for help.  After all, if all is/was well, the call wouldn’t be placed.  The degree of reaction experienced; however, can be totally different.  In solving the problem of the space, is there an expectation it will solve other life issues, as well?  For interior designers, this can be the difference between fulfilling ones duties with excellence, (aka – perfection), or being challenged to be flawless, amidst a sea of obstacles, (aka – another type of problem – not so easily solved.)

 Here’s another cup . . . it’s a long post!

I wanted to share this, to promote a realistic understanding of how there will be challenges to provide the best design experience.  There will always be the possibility of a problem.  A backorder holds up materials.  Custom work needs on-the-job tweaking or customizing.  Construction and delivery delays, weather, sickness, and even death.  (Yes, I had a previous circumstance, where custom work was being processed, and the fabricator died right before a meeting to inspect the progress of the work, and before it was to be installed.)  Let’s also consider, delays due to “analysis paralysis”.  As a designer, I can help some folks have a “breakthrough”, while others will remain stuck.  While I may control the creation, I don’t always control the decisions, nor all of the logistics affected by life’s events. 

Open communication is the key to the success and understanding of the expected outcome of any project.  Both parties, (the designer and the consumer), have to be open to this type of sharing.  It might seem, from the consumer’s viewpoint, that “a beautiful room” would always be the final goal, but it’s just the tip of the iceberg.  In this period of time, decisions and investments are being scrutinized through the proverbial magnifying glass.  While trying to be a wise decision-maker , it’s still possible to be foolish in ways impacting relationships and ultimately the level of satisfaction.  The corporate world refers to this as micromanaging.  The results?  Very rarely perfect.  By allowing for an innovative mind to be involved, more problems will be solved, before, during, and after the process.  I call it, “customer service”.

After 25+ years of experience in the design industry, I’ve found ways to work through the various challenges of perfection, while striving to get to #2 and in the manner of definition #3. (See “perfect”.)  I am a problem solver.  (See #2 of the 2nd definition.)  I love taking things apart and putting them back together.  I’m an interior visual artist, and most of the time, I have the ability to “see” the finished project before it’s even completed.  I am also a project manager, and I schedule and manage the time and resources needed for the project.  I collaborate with a team of fabulous artisans, (notice I did not say “laborers”), to help bring that vision to fruition.  I’ve also recognized that, some of the best design work I’ve ever created, was due to a glitch, a flaw, or a “happy accident”.  I appreciate the clients who have been willing to “let go” in order to receive my best work.  They are the ones who purchase original artwork, knowing the artist adjusted the brushstrokes, due to the ever-changing light. 

I practice “perfectly, imperfect” design.  I like mixing oil and vinegar, and adding in a bit of spice, for good measure.  It also makes a great “dressing” for the details.  . . .

“Out of perfection nothing can be made. Every process involves breaking something up.” Joseph Campbell

“Perfection is attained by slow degrees; it requires the hand of time” Voltaire

“The artist who aims at perfection in everything achieves it in nothing.” Eugene Delacroix

Experience the best about design!  Wanda

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I’m Repeating Myself

It’s my mission, as an interior designer, not to ever take a cookie-cutter approach to my work, by repeating anything I’ve done for another client.  I know it might be the easiest thing for me to do, but it’s not honoring the individuality of the client.  Because I do have quite a few projects, needing that personalized attention and approach, I am going to repeat a blog post, from last year, as the topic is still relevant and the simple act of clipping some beautiful gardenia blossoms, from my backyard, brought back the same memories!

Oh, if you could only enjoy the aroma!

Here . . . I’ll bring them a bit closer.  Is that better?

Click to read:  “Experiences in Design”

Thanks for letting me be a bit redundant, today.  I’ll try not to make it a habit.  After all, you might not think it’s by choice, but rather an age thing!

Experience the best about design!  - Wanda

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“A Spiritual Spring Cleaning”*

On occasion, I’ll step back from the world of interior design, to look through a different pair of lens.  As the holidays of Easter and Passover are almost upon us, it would be easy to share tips on how to prepare your homes for entertainment and speak of chocolate bunnies or special dishes, but that would be glossing over the surface.

While going back through some images, I found a photo I took at Kiawah Island, SC, at dawn.  Ever the night owl that I am, I still do find the solitude of an early morning to be a wonderful time for reflection and to take heart in the dawn of a new day.

Depending on your personal religious or spiritual beliefs, this time of year bears great significance for many.  The message for Christians is of the Resurrection occurring so that one may walk a new way or path of life.  Forgiveness for transgressions, or sin, is provided through the ultimate art of sacrifice.  For those of the Jewish faith, Passover signifies a liberation or a freeing of burdens.  (A great article on “Passover 2010 – Why Pesach Matters” – can be found here.)  In both cases, while there may be a difference in doctrines, the ability to “let go” parallels closer than some might think.  It’s kind of like a “spiritual spring cleaning”, as referenced by author Bob Deffinbaugh*.

I think it’s comforting to be reminded how each new day brings possibilities.  We’re given a choice of how to address our destiny, no matter what circumstance may have preceded it, or what lies before us.

. . . . for Joy cometh in the morning.(excerpt from Psalm 30.5 – ) – Another view of Kiawah.

Thank you for letting me take a little bit of time away from my interior design world.  I’ll be in the process of a little spring cleaning of my own.

Blessings to you all!  Wanda

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Father Time Marches On

As 2009 draws to a close, we turn our attention away to the New Year, as we have many hopes for better times, whether it’s health, happiness, success or whatever our wishes may be.  At each year’s change, we witness the symbolism of this time passing, in that of an elderly man, named, “Father Time”, who passes on the charge of the upcoming year to “Baby New Year”.

While we anticipate new and innovative changes, let us honor the wisdom and knowledge received, in the year we are about to leave.  Just like any new baby, a life yet to be lived can be joyous in the discovery; however, we can also prevent some of life’s bumps and bruises, based on lessons learned from previous experiences.

Thank you, Father Time, for helping us to find our way.

Wishing you much cheer in the New Year, each and every day!  Wanda

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Surcies – Part One

The first time I heard this term used, I was in the city of Charleston, South Carolina.  It’s hard to say the exact origin of the word, but loosely translated, it means:  “An unexpected gift or nice little treat.” 

Today, upon finishing up a client’s project with my friend and floral designer, Bryan, he said, “Before you go, I have a little surcie for you.”, and he produced a sweet bundle of large cinnamon sticks for me to place in my kitchen for the holidays.  Earlier in the week, I received a surprise package from my special Twitter friend, Leslie.  It is was a lovely book, filled with sumptuous photos of Christmas decorating!  In both cases, I had absolutely no idea or expectation of receiving either of these delightful treats.

  

(Even my surcie, from Leslie, was full of ideas for more surcies!)

As in all gifts, (surcies especially included), it truly is about the thought counting.  While these treasures were very pleasing to have and to hold, the idea of being remembered and the sweet caring, which was included, warmed my heart, added a smile and that’s what a surcie is all about!

Here are some Christmas Surcie ideas for you to share:

This little beeswax spiral candle, from Plow and Hearth, burns for up to 80 hours.  (That’s longer than my new cell phone holds its charge!)

A cup of Christmas cheer can arrive from the folks at Tea Forte.

I am a huge fan of Ree Drummond – aka – The Pioneer Woman. Her blogs are full of home-spun humor, even though she is a city girl who married a rancher.  Aside from being a “super-blogger”, she has some great recipes and I have to say, this would be a “superior surcie” to receive.  (Not hinting too much, am I?) 

All you have to do is close your eyes and this Thymes candle will transport you.  Can you hear the rustling of the tree branches as the scent of fir wafts by?

To be continued . . . .

Cheer-filled wishes for life’s little surprises!  Wanda

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I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas!

Even though we Southern folks may be a bit skittish about news of predictions for snow, as we make a mad dash for milk, eggs and bread, (after all, we don’t have many snow plows available to address the two inch “drifts”), we balance our caution with the giddiness of school children, who received a bonus holiday – a SNOW DAY!

I think we also enjoy the rare, pristine beauty of a snowfall.  It’s especially magical, if we are able to watch the flakes quietly dance down through the lights of the evening.  It brings a rare moment of peace, as life slows down . . . just a little . . . just enough to have time to reflect on the wonders of nature.

If you live in an area, where the snow is abundant, you can color me a little “pea green with envy”, during this time of year.  If you are in warmer parts, here are some winter room settings and accents to help you make your Christmas dreams come true!

The white slipcovers create snowy drifts of linen.  Can you only imagine how beautiful this would be in candlelight?

A lovely and clever wall cabinet is adorned in simple garland.  I love the Tiffany blue background.  It reminds me of the brilliant sky on a clear winter’s day.

The adjacent living room beckons you to curl up on this sofa for a steaming cup of cocoa.

A starfish in the snow?  Anything is possible, when you keep an open mind and an open heart!

Some things are just self-explanatory!

Crystal baubles and shimmery ball ornaments on a silver platter . . . a festive way to “serve-up” the idea of a tree-trimming party.

    . . . and while you’re trimming the tree, offer guests some lovely treats, served up in a matching palette. 

The mirrored doors, of this armoire, almost appear to have been crystallized by a frost. 

Such simple things become luxe with the right touches.  Silver painted cones, “snow” dusted garden cloches, and mercury glass vases are just the right touch for a mantel scape.

During this holiday season, as you prepare to address your lists, things to do, places to be and people to see, close your eyes and imagine a quiet snowfall, breathe deeply, and feel the wonderment of the moment.

Cheers to You!  Wanda

(Thanks to “Country Living” for the lovely photos!)

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Creating a Tea For Thee

While you are looking at these refreshing pictures of different types of iced tea, I’ll bet you are having some sort of sensory response.  (And with the summer season upon us, what a better point of reference could there be?)

Maybe one of the first things, you are experiencing, is the thought of how wonderful one of these teas might taste.  The next sensory response could be the heady fragrance of the fruit-flavored teas or the mint sprig floating in the glass.  If you just came in from a steamy day, the thought of the cold liquid and ice, could take you down a degree or two in temperature.  Then, of course, you may just be appreciating the presentation in how the tea has been served.  The fine silver pitcher may make you sit up a little more properly and the Mason jars may have you picturing yourself lazily swinging in a hammock.

                                          A “proper” tea!

                                   Where’s the hammock?

                             This looks “berrylicious” to me!

           Peach iced tea . . . Makes me giddy for peach season!

What is so interesting to me, is how one can take a simple ingredient, like tea, and by adding some different flavorings and altering the presentation, different perceptions and experiences can ensue. Great interior design often begins with a basic “recipe”, and through the creative process, wonderfully different results are achieved.  It’s all about uncovering the client’s preferences and tastes – no pun intended. 

Now that I have all of you craving a glass of one of these delectable concoctions, please visit this link at: SouthernLiving.com to learn how you can make them.  If you would like to chat about creating your own special “recipe” to add to your existing home design, please feel free to call the “master chef” of fine home experiences . . . . me!  I would be happy to serve you!

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Experiences in Design

This evening, on Facebook, I took a few fun quizzes – mostly regarding topics which made me draw upon memories of previous experiences or some favorite things. It was amazing, how in the process of my deep concentration, the reality of the memories, including the sensory recollection, was - well - so “real”.

Interior design, while being a discipline of function and form, is also all about experiences and emotions. Why do most people decide to change their interiors? Some want the change because they are natural trendsetters, love the latest, and just have to have it. Some initiate change because they desire to create a more usable space. Others change their interiors because things have served their time and have been well-loved or need some tweaking. In the end, most of what seems to be “need-driven”, is also based upon emotion and that emotion is created by an experience.

What were some of my Facebook questions? One question related to the toys I most remembered, growing up. I shared how my Barbie brought back a surge of memories, where my paternal grandmother and her sister, both excellent seamstresses, made most of my Barbie’s clothes. She was dressed in finery, enviable to that of any couturier. I can picture “Gommie” and Aunt Jessie, sitting on the screened porch, on the divan, (similar to a sofa bed), whipping away at fabric with needle and thread. The white wicker creaked whenever someone got up or sat down. As a fan stirred the breezes, there would be either a pitcher of fresh lemonade or iced tea with beads of sweat dripping down the sides. The linen slipcovers were vibrant but tasteful florals, also made by one of them . . . I can’t remember who. A gardenia bush was usually in full bloom, and the blossoms perfumed the air as the fan pulled in their fragrance with each whir of the blades. I can feel my eyelids become heavy, as I remember being lulled into nap mode, either by the peaceful activity, or the summer heat.

A porch, similar to my Grandmother's (Country Home Magazine)

While it may seem I’ve been pulled off track, I believe good interior design is about the experiences we hold dear. How effortless it was for me to recall those summertime activities, because the scenery was so pleasant and my grandmother made sure that her cozy home, while well-appointed, was also as welcoming as the lap in which I loved to crawl. I may miss her, this Mother’s Day, but I’ll still see her, with my Aunt, (on that screened porch), and the experience will be as real as yesterday.

My adage is, “Experience the best about design!”, as I believe everyone, in some form or fashion, should be able to do. What has been your best design-related experience?

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