Behind the Design: Cecily Mendell

 


How do you turn a career in banking into a career running a full blown interior design business? Just ask Cecily Mendell, of Cecy J Interiors, who took advice she received in the banking world and channeled it into a business mantra to help power her way through the world of interiors. “An old boss in banking gave me the most simple, and still the best, piece of advice- be scrappy.” Now, the San Francisco based designer says, she is reminded of this advice every time she’s faced with a challenge- which, let’s be honest, is pretty often in the design world. “You have to go out and find your success, or create it out of a seemingly impossible situation,” says Cecily.

Here, Cecily Mendell shares more on running a successful business, her favorite places for design discoveries, and how she stays zen.

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Why do you design?

I always enjoyed design but in my head, I wanted it to be practical and approachable. I became a designer to figure out how to make spaces beautiful, but usable, at the same time.

What is the most memorable space you’ve ever been in? What did it look like, how did it smell, how did it feel?

I know it might sound trite but the Sistine Chapel. I was blown away by the intricacy of the design and the time and effort it took to create something so beautiful. Life is rushed now and craftsmanship is so secondary to production that I really appreciate something so special.

What questions do you ask a client before beginning a project?

I don’t really ask that many questions as much as I listen to what they are telling me and pull out the things that are most important about how they want to live. I find I learn so much more about what I want to do on a project by listening to my client’s design philosophy rather than asking them a lot of set questions.

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

My favorite project was a farmhouse we did in Woodside, CA. They are such an amazing family, and so appreciative, and we took such a relaxed approach to the entire project. It just felt good to know we were creating a home for them.

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

LA. It is an easy city and I think people there are doing some incredibly creative things. I always go to Harbinger,  and Lawson Fenning when I am there. No matter where I am though, I am always going to design stores and checking out the local design elements. It is such a good way to learn about a place.

What was the first thing you ever bought for your own home? How did you feel when you bought it?

Art. It was so exciting to finally have a place that was my own that I could buy things I loved for.

Share your favorite Pinterest board (one of your own, preferably).

This is my Shut the Front Door Pinterest board which I love.

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

Totally inspired.

Cecyj-Interiors-Cecily-MendellWhat is your morning routine?

Drink a glass of lemon water, wake my kids up and get them off to school, check email and then start client meetings or working on projects.

How do you relieve stress and stay calm?

Yoga and wine.

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

I take a really long, hot shower.

How would you describe your personal style? How is your “off-duty” style different (or similar) to how you dress for work?

I think my style is pretty interchangeable – there isn’t a big difference in how I dress for work and the rest of my life. I like to mix emerging and established designers. I would say I am pretty casual but definitely throw in some unexpected looks every once in awhile.

What tips do you have for staying organized at home?

Before bed and every morning make sure everything is put away. I clean up after each “shift change” and put things back where they are supposed to be so that mess doesn’t pile up.

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What’s always in your bag?

Legos, tape measure, lip gloss.

Who are your role models?

Wallace Neff, an architect from Southern California who is widely regarded as developing the region’s distinct “California” style.

Cecyj-Interiors-Cecily-MendellDo you have any business mantras or inspiring quotes that keep you going? 

Be scrappy.

How would you define “running a successful business”? 

Always feeling happy to come to work and having a team around who still want to work with you.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

My old boss in banking gave me the most simple, and still the best, piece of advice. “Be scrappy”. This has stuck with me and served me well. Opportunities don’t just come your way. The most successful people aren’t always the most educated or intelligent ones. They are the ones who are willing to roll up their sleeves and put in the hard work. You have to go out and find your success, or create it out of a seemingly impossible situation. Anytime I face a challenge, I think about that advice and I figure out a way to make it work.

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

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


 

Behind the Design: Lauren Ranes

Next up in our San Francisco “Behind the Design” series is Lauren Ranes. A quick glance at Lauren’s portfolio will make it obvious- the girl’s got style. She’s the kind of designer that pulls inspiration from everything around her, whether it’s an embroidered Valentino dress, a pile of fresh ranunculus, or a bedroom with an unusual color scheme. After studying interior design and architecture at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, she established her own San Francisco based design firm in 2011 and currently contributes on projects in San Francisco, Napa, and Sun Valley. “Be a leader” was something Lauren’s father used to tell her over and over again as a child, and now she’s doing just that. “It was not until I became an adult that I realized that he intended not that I should direct others but, rather, that I should be original.” While her design style incorporates traditional elements, her execution is modern and fresh with pops of color in unexpected places. What keeps her going, apart from time spent with her husband, daughter, and adorable spaniel, is remembering (both literally and figuratively), that “if you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.”

Why do you design?

It’s a natural, necessary creative outlet! Simply, I design because of my need to find and create beauty.

What is the most memorable space you’ve ever been in? What did it look like, how did it smell, how did it feel?

My childhood home. An American ranch style home in the Pacific Northwest made entirely of brick. In the winter it smelled of cedar and coffee, in the summer of fresh cut grass. The home was largely designed in a traditional style. And perfectly landscaped. She was comfort and beauty.

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

Fullfilled.

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

San Francisco: MARCH. Coup D’etat. New York: The Line. BDDW. Steven Sclaroff. The Whitney. The Met. Rome: Any church or old brick & mortar. Truly, the eternal city.

What was the first thing you ever bought for your own home? How did you feel when you bought it?

A custom, marble dining table. It was an obvious investment for my home and family, a timeless piece that we still use and love.

John Bedell Photography

Share your favorite Pinterest board (one of your own, preferably).

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

An impossible question. However, I have been working with one family now for several years on an exquisite Arts & Crafts home in San Francisco. We have become close and the home is an approachable, imaginative, collected masterpiece.

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What is your morning routine?

During the week, my daughter occupies most of my morning! I change, feed and entertain her while I read and compose emails. Breakfast is sadly an afterthought, typically half a yogurt and an espresso. On the weekends we walk to Equator downtown Mill Valley, the best coffee and waffles in the world.

How do you relieve stress and stay calm?

I try to focus on just one task at a time.

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

An afternoon stroll around the neighborhood. It’s an important outing that allows me to clear my head. My dog and daughter also love it…and I love being with them.

How would you describe your personal style? How is your “off-duty” style different (or similar) to how you dress for work?

My style is simple and tailored. Most of my pieces are classic but I like to indulge in a few unexpected pieces to keep things fresh. I also invest in shoes. A nice pair makes any outfit. Generally, my home and work wardrobe are interchangeable.

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What tips do you have for staying organized at home?

Try to live minimally keeping only what you need and love. Make a point to continually edit. And make lists.

What’s always in your bag?

Hand sanitizer…and baby toys.

Who are your role models?

My parents. My mother is the hardest working person I know. My father is an innovator.

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

“If you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.” A literal and figurative mantra.

How would you define “running a successful business”? 

If you are able to create work and maintain relationships that you are proud of…

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What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

Growing up, my father recited over and over, “Be a leader.” It was not until I became an adult that I realized that he intended not that I should direct others but, rather, that I should be original.

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

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

What a Day in the Life of an Interior Designer is ACTUALLY Like

There’s a lot more to being an interior designer than creating really, really, ridiculously good-looking homes.

1. Fielding calls from potential clients concerning design projects.

2. Trying to fit everything in your tote bag.

3. Running to client meetings.

4. Scoring a new client.

5. Estimating time and product costs and writing proposals.

6. Measuring rooms and creating floor plans.

7. Taking a moment for your coffee break.

8. Scouting and ordering accessories, furniture and decor.

9. Coordinating pickup and delivery from wholesalers and design showrooms.

10. Balancing the books and sending out invoices.

11. SLEEP.


Are you an interior designer in search of an easy interior design software and project management tool to run your business? Learn more about Ivy here.

How to Nail Your First Client Meeting

Preparing for your first meeting with a new client is a lot like getting ready for a first date. The pressure’s on to impress and create the framework for a strong, trustworthy, long-lasting relationship where both parties are happy. You have one shot to convince your client that you’re the right one (or only one) for the job. You’ll want to prove that you are capable, you can be trusted to meet deadlines, you’re relatable, you’re a problem solver, and you’re worth their money. No big deal, right? Don’t worry, we know this can be nerve-wracking, so we’ve rounded up tips for making an awesome first impression that will help you win your client over in the first meeting. You got this!

1. Act Human- It’s okay to not have your designer hat on from the get-go. Before you start talking budgets and deadlines, get to know your client as a person. Talk about where they live, where they went to college, or a local spot that you love. Basically, make small talk. This will establish a connection between the two of you as people that exist outside the roles of “client” and “designer”.

2. Set an Agenda- Think about your expectations for the meeting and how you envision the flow. What information do you need to get out of this conversation? Write a list before you get started and don’t be afraid to send it through to the client in advance so they know what to expect and what answers they should have ready. This will prove that you’re organized and like to think ahead.

3. Ask a Zillion Questions– There’s a lot you need to know, and the more info you can get up front, the better. It doesn’t need to be a formal interview, but try asking things like: How do you wish to use the space we are designing? How do you like to live? Are there any images/objects/ideas that have moved or inspired you for this space?

4. Be Professional, But Be Yourself– You want to look put together, but don’t try to be someone you’re not. Just wear something that you’re comfortable and confident in and you’ll radiate lady boss vibes. Remember, the most important thing is to make your client feel like you can handle what they need. On the professional note- don’t eat in a meeting (unless it’s a lunch meeting), don’t text or email, and don’t answer your phone (even better, just turn it off!).

5. Take Notes- Remember that the main goal of this meeting is to listen. The obvious reason for taking notes is to help you remember everything discussed during the meeting. But this can also be an opportunity to prove to the client that you value what they have to say and take their ideas seriously. Repeat certain words or phrases that the client uses in

order to hint to them that you’re on the same page.

6. Send a Summary– Post meeting, keep the conversation flowing by sending a summary of your takeaways from the meeting. This is a great opportunity to move the project forward by suggesting next steps.

Want more on client meetings? Find out how to choose the perfect meeting spot for your client.

12 Inspirational Business Quotes from Successful Women

In a world where inspirational quotes follow you everywhere from Instagram to Pinterest to t-shirts and tote bags, it can be easy to dismiss them as trivial typography. But stumbling upon the right quote from the right lady boss one day might be just the motivation you need to start making things happen for yourself and your career. Here, we gathered some of our favorite words of wisdom from successful women to help as you navigate your business goals, doubts, and motivations.

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Amy Poehler, actress and comedian, as told to Glamour.

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Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, on adjusting to loss and the changes that come with it.

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Martha Stewart, CEO Martha Stewart Omnimedia, on organization.

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Marissa Mayer, Yahoo CEO, on pushing your limits.

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Michelle Obama, FLOTUS, in an April 2007 campaign speech.

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Miuccia Prada, designer, on success.

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J.K Rowling, author, on failure and imagination in her 2008 Harvard commencement speech.

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Cate Blanchett, actress, on maintaining her career and keeping a level head in a 2009 Vanity Fair interview.

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Sarah Jessica Parker, actress and entrepreneur, on summoning the lady boss within and bracing yourself for failure.

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Kelly Wearstler, interior designer, on self-discipline at work.

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Beyoncé, musician, on running from the dance studio to photoshoots to meetings with executives and everything in between in her documentary Beyoncé: Year of 4.

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Sophia Amoruso, CEO of NastyGal, on treating every business decision with the utmost care.

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Arianna Huffington, editor-in-chief of the Huffington Post, on not getting it right the first time.

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Diane Von Furstenberg, designer, on growing up.

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Oprah, founder and CEO OWN, on being passionate about your work.

Behind the Design: Ellen Nystrom on Balancing Life as an Interior Designer, Mother, and Entrepreneur

San Francisco-based designer Ellen Nystrom’s love for design was sparked by her love for travel. A year spent in Aix-en-Provence as an undergrad at UC San Diego and a summer in Copenhagen while earning her Masters of Interior Architecture, exposed Nystrom to the wonders of international architecture that continue to inspire the way she designs. Between acting as principal designer at her own firm, Nystrom Design, managing a growing business, and raising two children, she makes sure to value “me” time- whether it’s brewing a cup of coffee each morning, swimming laps to clear her head, or reading a chapter from a book before bed. And for Nystrom, when it comes to design, it’s all about the creative process. “Running a successful business is about finding ways to maximize the time I spend on the parts of the business that I am most passionate about.”

Today, we’re thrilled to share more about Ellen Nystrom’s interior design business, her lifestyle, and how she plans to #maketimefordesign.

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Why do you design?

I’ve always had a creative impulse and I’m a visual person.  Interior design complements the way I naturally interact with the world.

What is the most memorable space you’ve ever been in?  What did it look like, how did it smell, how did it feel?

At the Alhambra Palace in Grenada, Spain, the interior and exterior spaces are extensions of each other with framed views of beautiful landscapes, and reflecting pools that enhance the intricate carvings and tile work covering almost every surface.  The overall effect is both tranquil and awe-inspiring. 

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

I’m in the final stages of a full renovation and modernization of an Edwardian home in the Noe Valley neighborhood of San Francisco that has been a true collaboration with the owners and the architect.  We’ve worked hard to develop a thoughtful concept that embraces modern design while respecting the traditional details of the home.  This attitude extends to the furniture and finish selections, and I’m so excited about how it’s all coming together. 

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

I spent a summer studying in Copenhagen, Denmark.  My favorite museum, maybe of all time, was the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, which is about 20 miles north of Copenhagen.  

Closer to home, a favorite weekend getaway is Palm Springs.  I love to drive around and see all of the swanky mid-century homes (maps are available at the tourist center).  North Palm Canyon Drive has great vintage shopping.  A few favorite shops are Boulevard and Christopher Anthony. 

And of course, I’ll go to Manhattan any time I have the chance.  The Design Center at 200 Lexington has an entire floor devoted to 1st Dibs vendors, and it’s such a treat to be able to see and touch all those unique items in one place.  I love the Frick Collection and the Solomon R. Gugenheim Museum by Frank Lloyd Wright. 

“The first meaningful thing I bought for my own home was a Danish teak credenza.  When I bought it, I knew it was a piece that would stay with me for many years.”unspecified

Share your favorite Pinterest board

My favorite Pinterest board is my board called “Colorful”.

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

…like I’m solving a puzzle with many moving parts.  I love the process, and it’s very gratifying when all of the pieces come together.

What is your morning routine?

Mornings can be hectic with school-aged kids, so once they are off to school I make a cup of coffee in the French press.  It takes a little time to boil the water and let the coffee brew.  I like the ritual and the aroma, and I think of it as my transition time.  Then, with warm beverage in hand, I start my workday.

How do you relieve stress and stay calm?

Swimming laps clears my head and allows me to tune everything out.  I love the rhythm, and always feel energized afterwards. 

“Cooking is my creative outlet when I want instant gratification.  Design projects can take months or even years to complete, but I can make dinner in 30 minutes.”

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

Every night before bed I disconnect from all devices and wind down by reading a chapter or two from a book. 

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What tips to you have for staying organized at home?

When something new comes in, donate or sell something old.  Be deliberate about making sure everything has a place, and schedule time in your week to put things away where they belong.

How would you describe your personal style?   

My personal style is casual but tailored.  Blue jeans and classic-fitting pieces are my staples, but I love to mix in a few things that are a little edgy or have an unusual detail.  Neutrals dominate my closet, but there are definitely some vivid colors too.  When I’m “off duty” I’m often attending my kids’ sports events and other activities so I switch out my nice shoes for Sketchers, and pile on the layers in case the San Francisco fog rolls in.

What’s always in your bag?

A blue Pilot rolling ball pen with an extra fine tip.  Even in the age of smart phones, sometimes I still need to capture something on paper. 

Who are your role models?

I have always followed designers whose work spans multiple disciplines, like Charles and Ray Eames, Alexander Girard, Orlando Diaz-Azcuy, and Kelly Wearstler. 

I’m also grateful to past bosses who have shared their wisdom and insight.  When I’m stuck on something, it’s not uncommon that I ask myself how a former boss might handle the situation. 

“I like to remember that business is about building relationships.”

How would you define “running a successful business”?

For me, running a successful business is about finding ways to maximize the time I spend on the parts of the business that I am most passionate about.

©CarolineJohnson-24thStreet-1

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

Take one step more than you think you can.  I was on a high element of a ropes course, but I think this applies to life too. 

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

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.

5 Places to De-Stress in the San Francisco Bay Area

It can be hard to unplug and make space in your mind for things that fall outside the “work” category, but the clarity that comes from taking time to be mindful can have a real impact on your success. Ethan Nichtern, of the Shambala Meditation Center in New York, makes the case that in a crazy world, one needs to be clearheaded because “crazy with crazy is never good.” So whether you’re vowing to step up your meditation game in the new year or just need a place to go to close your eyes and say “om”, consider these 5 San Francisco/Bay Area spots to get your zen on.

1. Earthship

4609 Shattuck Avenue (near 46th Avenue), Oakland

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This lifestyle shop, from the creators of all natural, plant-based beauty brand Earth Tu Face, can be your happy place if you let it be. We’re not sure if it’s the dried herbs hanging from the ceiling or the happy hour champagne they serve on Fridays, but this place has definitely got stress-free vibes going on.

(Photo: @earthtuface)

2. Laughing Lotus

3271 16th Street (at Dolores), San Francisco

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This could be you. Blissfully stress-free in a yoga studio known for its boldly colored rooms and joyful, free-flowing practice. The instructors here put their own spin on traditional Lotus Flow vinyasa kickstarted by inspiring chants and mantras. You know we love a good mantra.

(Photo: Laughing Lotus)

3. International Orange 

2044 Fillmore Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco

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This Japanese-inspired day spa meets skin-care emporium is the epitome of zen. Who doesn’t want to take a yoga class, receive an acupuncture treatment, and chill out in a bamboo garden….all in one place?!

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(Photo: International Orange)

4. Yoga Flow SF Union

1892 Union Street at Laguna, San Francisco

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I know we’re all about making time for design, but you should also consider making time for vinyasa yoga in a heated room surrounded by treetops. That’s basically what goes on at Yoga Flow.

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(Photo: Patricia Chang)

5.  San Francisco Zen Center

300 Page Street, San Francisco

San Francisco Zen Center

If you’re on a path towards decluttering your mind, chances are that path will take you to the San Francisco Zen Center. As one of the oldest Buddhist communities outside of Asia, its name pretty much speaks for itself. A large selection of their dharma talks are also available on iTunes for free. If you’re not quite sure what a dharma talk is yet, the first step is being willing to find out!

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(Photo: San Francisco Zen Center)

 

How to Choose the Perfect Meeting Spot For Your Client

Imagine each of your clients as if they were their own trendy coffee shop. Now choose wisely..

1. The Client: Young Brooklyn transplant who appreciates a good slice of fancy toast

Photo: Victor Goods Photography

The Meeting Spot: The Mill 

Instagram (to location tag, of course): @themillsf

2. The Client: The one who likes things clean, white, and minimal

Photo: Patricia Chang

Photo: Patricia Chang

The Meeting Spot: Saint Frank Coffee

Instagram (to location tag, of course): @saintfrankcoffee

3. The Client: The outdoorsy type whose Instagram feed is populated with pictures of succulents

Photo: Courtesy of stablecafe.com

Photo: Courtesy of stablecafe.com

The Meeting Spot: Stable Cafe

Instagram (to location tag, of course): @stablecafe

4. The Client: The couple who insists on black, white, and polished silver finishes

Photo: Aubrie Pick

Photo: Aubrie Pick

The Meeting Spot: Jane

Instagram (to location tag, of course): @janeonfilmore

 

6 San Francisco Florists to Follow on Instagram

These 6 San Francisco based florists are serving up some major fleurspiration.

1. Ampersand // @ampersand_sf

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You can easily spot an Ampersand post in your feed by their signature turquoise barn that houses an insane selection of local-grown blooms. The founders, Emerson and Benjamin, are as adorable as their arrangements.

3. Bloom That //  @bloomthat

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Bloom That isn’t a florist in the most traditional sense, but they certainly know how to deliver a killer bouquet. The app allows you to easily schedule flower deliveries on demand in both the Bay Area and NYC. Their feed will quickly inspire you to send flowers to everyone you know. (Talk about the perfect client gift…)

4. Farmgirl Flowers // @farmgirlflowers

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Farmgirl Flowers is one of the champions of the “locally grown” flower movement, and also happens to be one of the fastest growing private companies in the Bay Area. From its inception in 2010, founder Christina Stembel vowed to use solely American grown flowers in her arrangements and has kept that promise ever since, inspiring others to follow suit. Go girl.

2. Tulipina // @tulipinadesigns

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Tulipina’s Kiana Underwood is clearly doing something right. Beautiful photographs of her colorful, cheery arrangements have garnered over 111k Instagram followers. That’s a lot of flower fans.

5. Flora Grubb Gardens // @floragrubbgardens

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What’s better than a planter full of beautiful succulents? A CALIFORNIA-SHAPED planter full of beautiful succulents. These are the kinds of treasures you can find at Flora Grubb, a San Francisco staple for sourcing inspiration for outdoor spaces.

6. Studio Choo // @studiochoo

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Studio Choo has the kind of Instagram feed that just makes you happy. The founders are best friends, Alethea Harampolis and Jill Rizzo, and the pair’s authenticity comes across in every post.

Source 6 Standout Pieces From This Inspiring San Francisco Home

Get inspired by this Homepolish-designed San Francisco home, whose airy vibe and muted color palette serve as a backdrop for the homeowners’ own unique treasures. Source 6 of our favorite standout pieces for your next project, below.

1. Pillows that pop

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Source: Vintage embroidered Jira pillow, $295; shoppe.amberinteriordesign.com

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2. Mid-century modern cabinet

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Source: Organic Modernism Mariposa-3 White cabinet, $1,785; organicmodernism.com

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3. Watercolor wallpaper

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Source: Eskayel Dynasty wallpaper, $612 per roll; eskayel.com

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4. Glass jug pendants

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Source: ABC Home glass jug pendant, $585; abchome.com

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5. Conversation-starting art

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Source: Anne Menke African Woman Portrait, $4,500; clic.com

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6. Tiles with style

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Source: Clé Geo cement tile, price upon request; cletile.com

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7. Safari chairs

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Source: Arne Norell Rosewood and Leather Safari Chair, $1,700; 1stdibs.com

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*Photos: Homepolish/Aubrie Pick