Interior Design

Wendy was an early adopter of Houzz, advertising on the platform as far back as 2015. She still attributes much of her success to Houzz, and specifically being an early adopter. For a designer getting started today, they may not have as much success on the already saturated platform. It may behoove them to get experimental and trailblaze a newer platform. Find the place in the Wild West that doesn’t already have a populated boom town and become the mayor.

Low is a self-taught interior designer, albeit one who grew up with a mother who is an interior designer and a father who is a general contractor. At one point, Low’s mother asked her to take Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard program focused on the business side of design and to implement its templates, processes and recommendations in her mother’s business. “I went through the entire course in one day,” Low recalls, “and by the end of the day, I was like, ‘Oh, this is how you run a business!’”

After branching out on her own, Trousdale noticed a change taking place in the industry: Clients were becoming more familiar with product. There was growing pressure to present clients high level design with an element of surprise. Who and where could she turn to find the industry support and resources she needed to keep up with this shifting tide? Turns out she wasn’t the only designer noticing the trend. As a result, Trousdale launched Circaphiles in 2020, which connects and empowers professionals in the design industry by providing educational resources, networking opportunities, and access to unique sources, vetted by peers designing at a high level.

In 2023, he launched an online store, Ryan Saghian Mode-De-Vie, which features a curated collection of furnishings, art, and accessories from his favorite trade vendors and artisans. He is one of the first interior designers to embrace the metaverse with his own virtual showroom, optimized for a fully interactive VR experience. Saghian received his Bachelor’s of Science in Interior Architecture and Design from the Art Institute of California.

For designers entertaining the idea of opening their own store, Christopher Kennedy offers some sage advice. “Running a design firm, sometimes you are your own best customer,” he said. “Owning a retail store is really useful when you need to pick up some accessories last minute to art a photoshoot. You really need the same level of dedication to both [your firm and store] to maintain a cohesive brand. And you can get burned out trying to do it all.” Kennedy admitted that he was too hands-off with the retail side of the business, focusing heavily on design clients. He took some time to step back and reevaluate how he could best serve his clients and community. The result is a new, tailored showroom, tucked into a business center in downtown Palm Springs. It doesn’t have the same tourist foot traffic as the previous space, but it’s calm, crisp, and feels like home.

The Pasadena Showcase House of Design is not just an exhibition; it’s a philanthropic endeavor. By attending, you support the arts and provide funding for music programs, scholarships, and community initiatives that benefit aspiring artists and musicians.
Visiting the Pasadena Showcase House is an opportunity to witness the harmony between architectural splendor, interior design, and artistic expression in one breathtaking setting. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary event that celebrates creativity, supports education, and showcases the very best of Pasadena’s design and artistry. Experience the Pasadena Showcase House of Design and indulge in the beauty, inspiration, and innovation that awaits within its walls. For more information or to book tickets, visit this link.

The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) has extended their submissions for its coveted 2023 National Awards. The annual awards program known for recognizing practitioners who demonstrate interior design’s impact on the human experience has extended their application window to May 15th, 2023.