5 degrees of inspiration…pt. 3

July 29, 2009 · Posted in Interior design projects

Interview with interior designer Krissy…

Is there someone or something (architect, piece of art work, painter) who/that inspires your creativity?

I find inspiration everywhere; from architects, artists, chefs – pretty much anybody who is truly passionate about what they do. You can certainly tell when a chef has poured his heart into a dish or a craftsman his soul into a piece of furniture. Truly good design requires heart and passion.

What are your favorite elements/colors to use in a design proposal and what elements/colors do you think are necessary to make a successful proposal?

I believe that successful design must be truly personal. Therefore, the most important elements and colors that I incorporate into any design are taken from the client’s personal collection: a favorite piece of art, a family photograph, a beloved collection of any sort, an artifact acquired on a meaningful vacation, etc. All of these can inspire the design of a space; from the colors to the fabrics, to create a desired mood and allow the personality and character of the clients to shine through.

When was it that you became interest in the design field and how has your career evolved?

I have always been interested in interior design. On a rainy childhood day I could be found sketching floor plans at my desk or (much to my parents chagrin) rearranging my bedroom furniture and accessories. I have been an avid reader of interior design publications since high school. After obtaining a liberal arts degree in college and trying my hand in various corporate work environments, I decided to follow my heart and pursue a career that I was truly passionate about. I have been studying and working in the field of interior design with fervor ever since.

Where do you look for new inspiration and how do you avoid “designers block”?

I find inspiration everywhere: in my travels, in books and magazines, from food, from nature. I keep a file of things that I find inspiring, from pictures to fabric swatches to articles torn out of magazines. Whenever I feel blocked I simply thumb through my inspiration file and sit down with a sketch pad and colored pencils to get the creative juices flowing!

What helpful tips can you give our blog readers about taking on a design project of their own?

First and foremost, when designing a space, you need to establish the practical criteria. What will the space be used for? How do you want it to function? What major pieces of furniture will be needed to utilize the space for its intended purpose? Once these questions are answered, a working floor plan can be produced and you can begin to select furniture that will fit your needs and your style. The last part is incorporating your own personality by adding color, selecting fabrics and textures, and personalizing the space with artwork, photos, etc to create a mood and a feel that fits your character. Most importantly, have fun with the process and don’t take it too seriously!