For Holly Hollenbeck, the key to running a successful business is finding a balance between life at work and life at home. Mornings for this San Francisco-based interior designer begin with getting her children (ages 5, 8, and 11) out the door for school before tackling her inbox and the day’s design work. “If I can find time at the end of the day to read a book in a hot bath for a bit, I’m happy,” says Hollenbeck, who founded her own design firm, HSH Interiors in 2002. “Designing is one of the few times in life where I’m in the flow and I don’t sense time passing at all,” she says. “I can look up and discover hours have gone by without my noticing.”

Whether she’s taking on a high-end remodeling project or designing custom furnishings for a historic Mill Valley home, Hollenbeck’s design work is inspired by the colors and patterns of up and coming fashion designers and results in sophisticated interiors each with an individual style. As she puts it, “The most successful design is one that looks like the designer was never there because its such an embodiment of the client’s style, but maybe just a bit more chic!”

Why do you design?

I find interior design work to be engaging on many levels.  I love working with tactile physical materials, whether it be concrete, metal, wood, ceramic tile, leather, fur, wool or linen.  I also enjoy getting to know my clients personally and designing a home that will the be perfect fit for their lifestyle.  And, at the end of the day, you can actually see and touch your work product, which is becoming increasingly rare in many jobs these days.

What is the most memorable space you’ve ever been in? 

I find it difficult to choose just one.  But I guess I’d say the Pantheon in Rome. A Roman temple to the pagan gods completed around AD 125, the harmony, detail and architectural precision of the Pantheon is impressive.  The coffered dome with its oculus is breathtaking.  Standing under it was one of those moments where I was stunned by the beauty humanity can create.

I love working with tactile physical materials, whether it be concrete, metal, wood, ceramic tile, leather, fur, wool or linen

Can you talk about your favorite project to date? What made it the best?

My favorite project to date is a custom new construction home in Mill Valley that I have been working on for several years.  It has been a privilege to be on the project since its inception and to design it alongside the architect and owners.  It has truly been a team project from the start.   The home is on a large ridge-top property with panoramic views.  The architecture is linear and contemporary with floor to ceiling glass, concrete floors and walls clad in vertical blackened sugi ban wood and horizontal clear cedar.  My clients are worldly, eclectic and work in the music industry so the interior is very rock-and-roll boho chic.  Almost all the lighting and furniture are either vintage pieces or custom.  The interiors create fun contrast with the architecture that captures the complexity and individuality of my clients and their lives.

What is your favorite city for design? What shops or museums do you visit?

I love Paris (who doesn’t?)! Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine is my favorite museum in Paris. The museum is dedicated to the history of French architecture and displays full-size historical architectural installations as well as fabulous scale models representing eras from the Renaissance to Le Corbusier and beyond. The Musée de Cluny (the National Museum of the Middle Ages) is housed in a stone walled medieval structure that resembles a castle. What a pleasure to see art and artifacts in a building of the same era. It’s like stepping back in time. The Musée Jacquemart-André is another favorite. The museum is in the mansion of Edouard André, a banking heir, and Nélie Jacquemart, a well-known painter, who collected art during the 19th century on their travels to Rome, Cairo, Istanbul, and the Far East. Seeing museum worthy art in what was a one time a private home is such a pleasure. And of course, shopping at Marche Aux Puces is a must.

What are you favorite meeting spots in SF? 

I live in the Nopa neighborhood of San Francisco, which I adore.  I fell in love with the area during an architecture tour way back when I was in design school.  It’s now an up and coming part of San Francisco and has such fantastic energy, diversity and lovely old mansions with well-preserved architecture from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. One of my favorite neighborhood spots is The Mill on Divisadero.  They do literally mill their own flour and bake their own bread to create yummy thick toast with homemade toppings and they serve Four Barrel Coffee.  I’m a member of The Battery, which is a stylish spot to meet friends or clients and the member events are always a blast.

I live in the Nopa neighborhood of San Francisco, which I adore.  I fell in love with the area during an architecture tour way back when I was in design school.

Share your favorite Pinterest board.

Oh, it’s so hard to choose just one.  I think HSH Interiors’ Rooms We Love board which is a diverse collection of amazing rooms from all eras and all styles, all of which are inspiring in their own ways.

Complete the sentence “When I design I feel…..”

Focused.  Designing is one of the few times in life where I’m in the flow and I don’t sense time passing at all.  I can look up and discover hours have gone by without my noticing.

What is your morning routine?

I have three children ages 11, 8 and 5.  So the first order of the day is working with my husband to get my children up, fed and dressed and out the door to school on time.  It’s a bit chaotic as I’m also trying to get myself ready for work at the same time and I’m not a sweats kind of girl.  I dress for work every day.  Once my children are off at school, I turn to email and my design work for the day.

Designing is one of the few times in life where I’m in the flow and I don’t sense time passing at all.  I can look up and discover hours have gone by without my noticing.

What is one thing you do every day, for YOU?

Hum…is there such a thing when you are a full-time working mother of 3 young children?  If I can find time at the end of the day to read a book in a hot bath for a bit, I’m happy.

How would you describe your personal style? 

I love fashion and feel its a great influence on my interior design work. Color, pattern and edgy looks from up and coming designers inspire me.

 

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

Never blend in.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned working in the interior design business?

In 14 years in the business, I have learned a lot of lessons.  One of them is that the most successful design is one that looks like the designer was never there because its such an embodiment of the client’s style, but maybe just a bit more chic!

“There will never be a point in my career when I ‘know it all’ – and I love that,” says Heather Deragon on her role as an interior designer. After moving to San Francisco in 2012 to start her career in design, Deragon trained under some of the city’s top firms before heading out to start a studio of her own. Now, her firm, Heather Deragon studio, focuses on commercial and residential projects in the Bay Area and creates clean and classic, livable interiors. Acting as your own boss can be overwhelming sometimes, she says, but with a little focus and her penchant for being a (self-proclaimed) neat freak, she manages to get it all done. The best advice she’s ever received? “Don’t just think about it, do it.”

*Headshot by Sarah Deragon, Portraits to the People

Photo: Jonah Podbereski Photography

Why do you design?

I love working with people to create environments that make them feel good and function for their lifestyle. I feel incredibly honored whenever someone contacts me to design their interior. I enjoy translating people’s wants and needs into beautiful, simple, and thoughtful spaces. I’m also really interested in analyzing design elements to make my own work better. There will never be a point in my career when I “know it all” – and I love that. I’m constantly researching new artists, craftspeople, techniques, and technology, and gathering inspiration so I can present fresh ideas to my clients.

What is the most memorable space you’ve ever been in?

I visited Canada for the first time last summer. My boyfriend and I drove to Prince Edward County to stay at the Drake Devonshire Inn for a night. Our room had this amazing A Frame ceiling with a wall of windows looking directly onto the lake. I was in heaven to say the least. The furniture was a mix of old and new, some custom made and some found in local antique shops. It’s special when you stay somewhere and you can just sense the amount of thought and detail that went into the design.

Can you talk about your favorite project to date? 

It’s impossible to chose a favorite, each project has aspects that I love! Right now I’m working on a classic SF victorian, which is definitely a dream project of mine!

I enjoy translating people’s wants and needs into beautiful, simple, and thoughtful spaces.

What is your favorite city for design? What shops or museums do you visit?

Our very own, San Francisco. The list could go on and on… Heath Ceramics, Flora Grubb, Super Simple, S16, Ampersand, Fireclay Tile, Song Tea & Ceramics, General Store.

What are you favorite meeting spots in SF?

20Spot, Sightglass Coffee, Bernal Heights Park.

Share your favorite Pinterest board.

My Interiors board is where I look for inspiration regularly.

It’s special when you stay somewhere and you can just sense the amount of thought and detail that went into the design.

Photo: Jonah Podbereski Photography

“When I design I feel…..”

Natural

What is your morning routine?

My boyfriend makes me coffee every morning and that’s what usually gets me out of bed. We created a little “espresso bar” in our loft apartment where we spend a few minutes each day. When he leaves for work our home becomes my office.

What is one thing you do every day, for YOU?

I’d be lying if I said I do this EVERY day, but I’m building workouts into my routine. Nothing helps clear my head like an outdoor run. I head uphill and take in the city views from the top.

How would you describe your personal style? 

I dress pretty much the same for work as I do in my “off” time. My fashion style is similar to my interior style: practical, comfortable, classic, minimal.

My fashion style is similar to my interior style: practical, comfortable, classic, minimal.

 

Photo: Jonah Podbereski Photography

What tips do you have for staying organized at home?

I’m a bit of a neat freak. I’m constantly organizing and cleaning so clutter doesn’t become an issue. I try not to collect too much stuff, and put a lot of thought into purchases I do make. Everything has it’s place and function, so it’s easy to stay mess free!

What’s always in your bag?

iPhone. Because apps. Burt’s Bees chapstick. Because I’m addicted.

How do you make time for design? 

Design is incorporated into almost every aspect of my life, sometimes to a fault. I can’t help it – inspiration is everywhere! Leaving the city is the best way for me to actively put work aside to recharge. Weekends in Tahoe have recently been a nice escape!

Who are your role models?
Charles and Ray Eames. I have a deep admiration for their diverse designs that are still relevant today. Their work went beyond what I first recognized them for as furniture designers; into architecture, films, graphics, textiles, exhibitions, and photography. I’m also lucky to have supportive family members that offer expert advice whenever I need it. I look to them for guidance often.

 

Design is incorporated into almost every aspect of my life, sometimes to a fault. I can’t help it – inspiration is everywhere!

Photo: Jonah Podbereski Photography

Do you have any business mantras or inspiring quotes that keep you going?

“Keep it simple” “Less is more” Notice a trend there? ; )

How would you define running a successful business?

Do good, quality work. Constantly evolve but stay true to yourself.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

“Don’t just think about it, do it”. Being your own boss can be overwhelming at times, and my to-do lists can get a little intense. My boyfriend always reminds me to break tasks down and focus on accomplishing one thing at a time. This helps to tackle the work and get stuff done!

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned working in the interior design business?

Trust your instincts.

Digital marketing expert Carrie Swing knows that mastering social media while trying to run your own business can be tough- especially when your business requires 100% of your creative attention and energy. That’s why she’s determined to help interior designers get started on the right platforms to grow their online presence and reach the next new client. Here, in anticipation of her lecture on Instagram for Business at next week’s Design San Francisco, Carrie shares her tips for designers on all things social media. 

Remember when you loved what you do? Before you got overwhelmed with marketing and accounting and HR? We all want to be able to devote more time to our specific talent, and thankfully digital marketing can allow that if you use it strategically. Use it, don’t let it use you. #makebusinessfun (again). – Carrie Swing @carriedawaysf

1.Strategically choose your platforms and set goals. The purpose of any marketing effort is to get your name out there, to get published and/or to meet new clients, as efficiently as possible. A clear strategy that begins with a review of your mission statement and marketing plan will allow you to use social media / digital marketing to effectively move toward these goals. Analyze the various platforms available and select only the few that really suit interior design, your business size and clientele. For designers, I most often suggest Facebook and Instagram. Sometimes Pinterest and industry-specific sites like Houzz can work as well, but don’t be talked into thinking that every new platform the teenagers use will be appropriate for your business. Be as selective as your clients will be when they decide to work with you.

2.Be clear and consistent. State clearly on each platform exactly what you do and for whom. Not only does this keep your brand consistent, it saves everyone time. Online searchers typically make a decision in seconds, so if you only do custom yacht interiors, say so. Consider social media in the same way you would analyze a publication to place an ad – the clientele must align with yours, as well as the look and message. Use the same online “handle”, bio, headshot, logo and website on all platforms, and link them when applicable. Because design is by nature visual, make sure your online presence reflects your brand visually as well as through content.

3.Follow (and engage with) the leaders. You want followers who might refer you to new clients, the same as you would target with standard marketing. Follow people you work with or admire, such as artists, fabric houses, museums, publications, showrooms and architects. People often follow those who follow or engage with them, so take the time to find the right accounts to follow and engage with them. The general public (and potential clients) will come after these business connections become active, and these connections act as filters to get to the right people. Social media should be the opposite of cold calling potential clients.

4.A tag is the new referral. Engagement with others is key on social media. When you complete an installation, ask clients to post images and tag you – a new install with flowers, wine, or whatever gift you may leave is the best time to ask for a tag, which is the “new” referral. On your own posts, tag colleagues such as architects or fabricators used on the project. You can also ask satisfied clients to review you on Yelp.  DO answer comments within 2 days, but it’s OK to be brief. For example, on Instagram, you can say “thank you so much @you and @you and @you” rather than typing out 3 separate posts.

5.Good things take time…but not too much time. As with most things, the more you put in, the more you get out, but you need not spend hours – I suggest spending 10 min per day per platform to seek out one or two quality connections per day, by liking and commenting on posts that are relevant to your work / interests / or who share connections. Designers are often overwhelmed on sites such as Houzz by repeated questions on things like paint colors, so note these details when you post your images, and you won’t need to address them again. A watermark on all your photos will ensure that you are credited if (when!) the image goes viral.

6.Advertise wisely. Ads do work! Facebook ads, or sponsored posts, are inexpensive and ensure that your post will show up in your followers’ news feeds. (Facebook’s current algorithm limits unpaid posts on business accounts to a smaller audience.) Sponsor posts when you have something important to share, such as press recognition, new staff or a new location. In planning any paid posts, remember to keep your marketing at your level. You may see articles advising you to hold contests or participate in # games. Is this in line with the level of sophistication of your clients? Maybe it is if you do kids’ play spaces or parties, or custom garage flooring which might be tied into a sporting event, but for the most part it is not, and will bring you down to the level of price comparison rather than quality work.

7.Share don’t sell. This cliché truly does apply, so think of social media as the new way to share magazine articles with friends. Look to current events, community or any of the millions of design blogs for things to share. If you get stuck trying to come up with content, refer back to your specialty or your mission statement. Are you the authority on Palm Springs Modernism? Share articles on local architects or open houses. Are you a lighting designer? Post images of the sunset and discuss how colors look different under different light conditions. Strive for a mix of self-promotion (love this chair I just had re-upholstered!) and sharing relevant info (design fans will love this new film for the English country house interiors).

Whether it’s your first year in the interior design world or you’ve been in the game for 20 years,  you understand that sometimes your most valuable lessons are gained on the job. We asked some of our favorite designers to share the biggest lessons they’ve learned in the industry so far. Here’s what they had to say:

“The most well curated spaces engage all of the senses, demonstrate effortless balance, and require a heightened awareness towards simplicity.  These are the spaces that give us a natural urge to linger.”

–Brittany Haines, Authenticity B Designs

“In 14 years in the business, I have learned a lot of lessons. One of them is that the most successful design is one that looks like the designer was never there because its such an embodiment of the client’s style, but maybe just a bit more chic!”

-Holly Hollenbeck, HSH Interiors

“It is a really small industry. Be kind and be humble.”

-Cecily Mendell, Cecy J Interiors

“When the business feels like it’s running you then it’s not really your business anymore.”

– Anastasia Faiella, Faiella Design

“I’ve learned that one must continually evolve and grow both naturally and deliberately.”

-Lauren Ranes, Lauren Ranes Interior Design

“I’ve learned the importance of a strong concept.  There are so many decisions to be made over the course of a project, and it’s easy to get lost if you don’t have a strong concept to help you stay focused, and to ensure that the end result feels cohesive.”

-Ellen Nystrom, Nystrom Design

“I think that I’ve learned that you often need to let people earn your trust, and the best projects come from collaboration-  collaboration with your client and vendors. It’s a team effort and mutual respect makes for the most rewarding and successful projects.”

-Justine Sterling, Justine Sterling Design

“Trust your instincts.”

–Heather Deragon

“When the business feels like it’s running you, then it’s not really your business anymore,” cautions Anastasia Faiella, the creative force behind San Francisco Bay Area-based Faiella Design. Before she even opens her lap top in the morning, Faiella says she makes sure to stretch and do at least 30 minutes of yoga, followed by a cup of tea. A morning routine like that is pretty impressive for someone who runs her own interior design firm and manages full-scale remodel projects (like this Russian Hill restoration). Named Best of Houzz four consecutive years, Faiella Design has been featured in California Home Design, Better Homes and Gardens and the San Francisco Chronicle and continues to receive praise for her work transforming spaces around the Bay area. 

I design because…I love textiles, color, unique finishes, furniture anything tactile, finding the best combination of these elements and then seeing them come to life in the design and client’s home is really exciting. I love transforming spaces.

My business mantra is…just do it

In the morning I…stretch and do at least 30 minutes of yoga, followed by a cup of earl grey tea with milk. Then, ready to open lap top and start emails.

The best advice I’ve ever received is…follow your instincts.

The most memorable space I’ve ever been in was…the Pablo Picasso Museum in Antibes France. It was a white washed building with two or three floors, right on the sea. There was large windows everywhere and the light there was so beautiful, like it sparkled or something, hard to describe. It smelled salty like the sea and it felt time worn, you could feel the history of the building.

The first thing I ever bought for my own home was…a custom armchair in blonde wood with an upholstered seat (by local Bay Area furniture designer Ted Boerner). 

My favorite city for design is…Florence Italy but I would say London is right up there. All of them but the Uffizi Gallery and the Botticelli’s are my favorite, with the Tate Modern following closely

My favorite Pinterest board is…Black & White

 When I design I feel…satisfied

My personal style is…simple, Classic. Off duty is all comfort, yoga pants and sweatshirt

My tips for staying organized at home are…have a set place for all the details in life like mail, keys, battery chargers for electronics etc….. I am a big fan of large flat rectangular baskets/trays that you can place on a counter top, console or buffet. (West Elm, Crate & Barrel is my go to for these types of home accessories)

I relieve stress by…doing yoga, going to a movie or taking a walk. A good massage is also very helpful! I also spend time in my art studio painting, keeps me balanced.

I always have…Mac Lipstick ( color mocha or twig), iPhone, glasses, and my go to pink leather notebook…in my bag

To me, running a successful business is…being organized and having clear goals.

My favorite project to date was…the Russian Hill Remodel. The client hired me to design the whole home from top to bottom including a full remodel for the kitchen, bathrooms and roof top deck. So exciting to have the opportunity to develop & design concept for the whole home. The client wanted a light and airy look and was really up for exploring customized finishes and furnishings for the home. I love working with customized product because it allows me to collaborate with other artisans and crafts people and offer really unique design solutions.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned working in the interior design business is…when the business feels like it’s running you then it’s not really your business anymore.

As an interior designer, your tote is everything. We’re not talking about the free ones you get at events and use for shopping (when you remember to bring them). This is the I-can-handle-it-all tote. It’s smaller than a weekender but bigger than the shoulder bag you take to dinner and, most importantly, it holds EVERYTHING you need. From fabric swatches, to notebooks,  to gym clothes, and baby toys, the perfect tote should be able to fit it all. We’re here to let you know it’s okay to be a bag lady, but to make sure you have the right bag for your busy lifestyle, consider our guidelines below. Happy toting!

1. Size 

Play goldilocks a little before settling on a size. If you’re unsure, go for something bigger. Have you ever heard anyone complain about having too much space in their bag?

Herschel Supply Company Bamfield Tote, $74.99

2. Closure 

The ease and convenience of an open top tote is great…until it falls over in the backseat of the car and everything spills out. Think about your day-to-day and decide what works for you. To zip or not to zip? 

Mansur Gavriel Large Tote, $675

3. Strap Length

The length of the handles will determine how you carry your tote. If the contents are going to be heavy, go for a longer strap that can fit snuggly over your shoulder. Or, like this Clare V. option below, choose something with versatility.
Clare V. Simple Tote, $485

4. Material

Take time to choose the right material for you. Consider something durable and washable that can transfer from season to season.

L.L. Bean Signature Somerset Canvas Tote, $79.99

5. Pockets 

The perfect tote should have at LEAST 1 interior and 1 exterior pocket for easy access to the essentials.

Madewell Zip Transport Tote With Pockets, $159.50

Happiness is coming home to your dog. Especially when your home is impeccably styled and your dog is equally stylish. Who would you rather have perched upon your newly upholstered ottoman, stack of rug samples, or bed of monogrammed linens? It’s no wonder some of our favorite designers have a penchant for sharing snapshots of their canine companions and their chic lifestyles. Here, we combed dozens of interior design accounts to bring you a round up of cutest designer dogs on Instagram.

1. Wesley Gibson | #wesleythewestie

Hangs with: Grant K. Gibson, @grantkgibson, interior designer

Loves: Hiding under fancy cocktail tables

View this post on Instagram

Wesley approves of the new cocktail tables from Paris #fleamarket #marcheauxpuces #paris #westie #wesleythewestie #beniourain

A post shared by Grant K. Gibson (@grantkgibson) on Jul 26, 2015 at 8:59am PDT

Hates: Mondays

View this post on Instagram

Monday #wesleythewestie #westie #westieofinstagram

A post shared by Grant K. Gibson (@grantkgibson) on Jan 11, 2016 at 6:57pm PST

2. Lily Griffin-Sikes | @hrhlily

Hangs with: Mark D. Sikes, @markdsikes, interior designer

Loves: Chinoiserie

View this post on Instagram

@hrhlily sitting pretty! #mondays #redmyway #treeoflife #redwhiteandblue #chinoiseriechic

A post shared by Mark D. Sikes (@markdsikes) on Feb 1, 2016 at 8:37am PST

Hates: Having her photo taken during naps

View this post on Instagram

Stop taking photos and give me some peace already #french #frenchbulldog #HRH

A post shared by HRH- Lily Griffin-Sikes (@hrhlily) on Mar 28, 2015 at 3:57pm PDT

3. Olive Neustadt | @olive_neustadt

Hangs with: Tessa Neustadt, @tessa_neustadt, interior designer/photographer

Loves: Perrier

View this post on Instagram

We love us some @perrier #myperrier #neustadtstudio

A post shared by Olive the dog! (@olive_neustadt) on Jan 8, 2016 at 4:52pm PST

Hates: Acting serious at the office

View this post on Instagram

Office shmoffice #neustadtstudio

A post shared by TESSA NEUSTADT (@tessaneustadt) on Jan 13, 2016 at 5:08pm PST

4. Daphne & Gemma Weinrib | #dogsofMW

Hang with: Madeline Weinrib, @madelineweinrib, textile designer

Love: Lounging on Ikat

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Super Glam Gemma and Daphne have their book debut. K9-5 New York Dogs at Work. Congratulations Suzy Slesin, Pointed Leaf Press and photographer Michelle Rose. @suzyslesin @pointedleafpress @k9to5ny @michelle_._rose #originalmwtextiles

A post shared by Madeline Weinrib (@madelineweinrib) on Nov 17, 2015 at 3:45pm PST

Hate: Having to ride in the back seat

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The girls go for a ride 💃🏻🐶🐶

A post shared by Madeline Weinrib (@madelineweinrib) on Jul 10, 2015 at 10:39am PDT

5. Teddy Papachristidis | #teddynewyorkie

Hangs with: Alex Papchristidis, @alexsviewpoint & Scott Nelson, @scotstyle

Loves: Sleeping in

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No bed like your own #teddynewyorkie @scottnelsonsees

A post shared by Alex Papachristidis (@alexsviewpoint) on May 3, 2015 at 7:08pm PDT

Hates: Not being able to reach the dinner table

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24 for dinner , ready set go #teddynewyorkie #thanksgiving

A post shared by Alex Papachristidis (@alexsviewpoint) on Nov 26, 2015 at 1:29pm PST

6. Gogo Fine 

Hangs with: Lisa Fine, @irvingandfine, textile designer

Loves: Mixing prints

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Its all about patterns @hollywoodathome #mixprints Last day of #legendsoflacienega @carolinairvingtextiles #lisafinetextiles @dominomag @robertleleux Today Zig Zag

A post shared by Lisa Fine (@lisafinetextiles) on May 8, 2015 at 7:14am PDT

Hates: Sharing the bed

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Every Day is Dogs Day #nationaldogsday #rescue #bedlingtonterrier #operationkindess @thrive @operationkindness @aliverescue

A post shared by Lisa Fine (@lisafinetextiles) on Aug 26, 2015 at 6:13pm PDT

7. Shinji “Fox” Profera

Hangs with: Zak Profera, @zakandfox, textile designer

Loves: Posing for pics

https://www.instagram.com/p/-jXtNbPEkm/?taken-by=zakandfox

Hates: Hanging out with dogs who aren’t actually dogs

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Strangers When We Meet

A post shared by ZAK+FOX (@zakandfox) on Jul 10, 2015 at 4:18am PDT

“The most well curated spaces engage all of the senses, demonstrate effortless balance, and require a heightened awareness towards simplicity,” designer Brittany Haines says. “These are the spaces that give us a natural urge to linger.” The principal designer of her own firm, Authenticity B Design, Brittany channels inspiration from her father, a practicing interior designer on the East Coast, while she’s busy making her mark in San Francisco. After working for some of San Francisco’s top designers, Brittany’s breakout moment may have been at last year’s San Francisco Decorator Showcase where she designed the office/study. The room certainly showed all signs of a well curated space and we can’t wait to see what else is to come from this talented young designer.

What is the most memorable space you have ever been in? 

When I close my eyes I can instantly recall precise details of my childhood home with a strong sense of nostalgia.  For a child especially, your home is where you feel most at ease and secure. I can distinctively recall the square terra cotta tiles on the Kitchen floor, the shadows of the large oak tree outside my bedroom window, the clustered generations of family photos that lined our upstairs hallway and the oversized farm table where we did crafts, annually carved pumpkins and gathered for many a birthday parties. Our home celebrated elegance, the people who lived in it and all that we collected. Perhaps it was the thoughtful selected furniture layered with elaborate architectural elements that made this space distinctive in my mind, but I believe it was just as much the memories that we built there that made it such an unforgettable spot for me.

Our home celebrated elegance, the people who lived in it and all that we collected.

What are your favorite cities for design? What shops or museums do you visit in each?

Almost anywhere in Europe! From the chic fashion on the streets to the amount of historical architecture, I am a sponge to inspiration when I visit Europe. Some of my favorite cities in particular that I have had the chance to experience include London, Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen and Rome. My bucket list spots to visit is extensive when it comes to Europe. I am headed to London again this coming April and I am super excited to visit the Victoria and Albert Museum for the first time.

Share your favorite Pinterest board.

I have a Pinterest board titled “Home” which is a collection of images gathered based on the dream home I hope to design for myself someday. This is definitely my favorite board!

Complete the sentence “When I design I feel…”

When I design I feel energized! I thoroughly enjoy the personal relationships that I build with my clients as we work together to make their homes authentic to who they are and how they live their daily lives. The most enjoyable projects I have worked on consist of design teams that build on each others creative ideas, problem solve with ease and have the confidence to try something they have never done previously. These types of collaborative relationships inspire and energize me!

 

When I design I feel energized!

What is your morning routine?

Most of my mornings consist of a “hurry up and GO” type of routine. I really do wish I were more of a morning person! I have recently started to thoroughly enjoy the process of crafting a drip coffee at home in the morning. Amidst waiting for the water to boil and the coffee to brew I am forced to slow down, if only for a moment.

What’s always in your bag?

A tape measure, of course!  😉

How do you relieve stress and stay calm?

I do practice yoga pretty regularly, spend as much time as I can with people who make me laugh, and drink lots of red wine.

Do you have any business mantras or inspiring quotes that keep you going?

I recently visited the studio of painter Ian Kimmerly in San Francisco’s Hunters Point. Ian’s studio was filled with partially completed work on oversized canvases, buckets of varied paintbrushes and paint palates, as well as a long row of collected books with dog-eared pages. Amongst images of his family taped to the walls Ian had a hand written reminder scribbled on a piece of scrap paper – “Don’t over think it!”. The mental image of this insightful scrap of paper pops into my head quite often.

Who are your role models?

My father is an interior designer on the East Cost and is one of my most inspiring role models in both business and personal life. Through example he has taught me the importance of building a strong relationship with your clients and vendors. It was not until recently that I began to fully appreciate how involved my father is in each of his children and grand children’s lives while at the same time so effortlessly juggling all that is involved in building and running a small business. I feel extremely fortunate to have a shared passion for design and have his continued guidance and support!

It was not until recently that I began to fully appreciate how involved my father is in each of his children and grand children’s lives while at the same time so effortlessly juggling all that is involved in building and running a small business.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned working in the interior design business?

The most well curated spaces engage all of the senses, demonstrate effortless balance, and require a heightened awareness towards simplicity.  These are the spaces that give us a natural urge to linger.