Designer Series: Interview with Bella Mancini

I had unofficially ended The Beautiful Shelter Designer Series a few months ago, only to receive an email from designer Bella Mancini recently, asking if it was too late to participate. Needless to say, there are exceptions to every rule...particularly when you're as talented as Bella. I'm thrilled to reopen the series to share an interview with one of New York Magazine's Top 100 Interior Designers!

Jenna: When did you know you were destined for a career in interior design?
Bella: I was working in fashion advertising and very impulsively quit my job one day. I didn’t see it coming and didn’t have a plan, but I was young and broke and it got me thinking about what I really loved – what made me happiest. I realized I would be a very smart and lucky girl if I figured out a way to turn my favorite hobby into a career. Once I landed an assistant job in an interior design firm I knew that I was finally on the right career path.

Jenna: What was your first big design break?

Bella: My first big break in design was when the very amazing Wendy Goodman included my new firm in her list of Top 100 Interior Designers in NY Magazine. The article came out in 2000, and we’re still getting calls from it. I will never forget her for that – I am not sure we even deserved it at the time, so it truly felt like a gift and big break!

Jenna: Can you tell us about your first job in the design field?

Bella: I worked as an assistant to the very talented Ellen Hamilton who was both a great boss and incredible mentor. I was her design assistant and mostly did paperwork and answered phones. The most important part of my job (to me) was that I learned how to run and ID business. My time there was a fantastic education.

Jenna: What's inspiring you right now?

Bella: I am very inspired by my clients, believe it or not. I talk to them about what they love/don’t love about their home, how they live in it, and really learn WHO lives in it. I find that once they tell their story and tell me how they envision living in their new space I am so inspired that I am able to come up with all sorts of ideas that are right for them, and them alone.

Jenna: Where are your favourite places to shop?

Bella: I love to shop in other cities – even when they carry the same things that my regular haunts in NYC carry. Somehow when it’s merchandised in a way I haven’t seen before it is fresh and inspiring. Los Angeles has been particularly inspiring to me lately. I think because I am from California I am drawn to the relaxed elegance of California design. That chilled out look feels a little forced here in NYC, where tailored looks work for our spaces a little more effortlessly.

Jenna: What is your design philosophy?

Bella: I feel that next to good health, family, and friendship, there is nothing more important than the home. This philosophy is with me in each and every project I take on. As corny as it sounds, I truly believe that I can make my clients lives happier through the beauty of a well designed home.

Jenna: What is your most memorable travel destination?

Bella: For scenery alone I’d say that New Zealand is my most memorable travel destination. I was completely awestruck by the beauty of it – the color, the texture, the varied terrain. I felt more alive hiking there than ever before. It was truly a life-changing trip.

Jenna: What is your favourite hotel?

Bella: The Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, California. My husband and I spent 2 nights there when we were first dating and I’ll never forget the experience. They just get it right and it was all so memorable – from the rooms themselves to nature walks to eating above the clouds in the restaurant it was perfect.

Jenna: What is your preferred room to design in a home?

Bella: I love designing master bedrooms. It’s the one place in a home where husbands usually defer completely to their wives and the one room in the house that no matter what the clients’ style, it ends up being a little bit feminine. It’s also a place where clients get to be a little selfish – it gets to be a refuge from the chaos of the rest of the house (kids, dogs, etc) and we get to use more refined fabrics and a paler selection of color. It’s usually a departure from the rest of the home.

Jenna: What are your "best practices" for accessorizing a room?

Bella: By the end of a project most clients have learned a lot about what they like and don’t like and feel confident picking things up along the way. If I am helping them select things I typically just want to help them to buy things that actually mean something to them. There is nothing weirder to me than a bookshelf full of books that look like they’ve never been opened.

Jenna: What's the biggest design risk you've taken?

Bella: The 10’ chandelier we designed for a client with a small, local vendor we’d never used. We were terrified, but it turned out beautifully and the client loves it so it turned out well in the end.

Jenna: What has been the greatest lesson since opening your business?

Bella: That you should trust your instincts about potential clients. I will never again try to talk anyone into to hiring me, nor will I try to convince someone that my fee structure is fair. It’s sort of like dating: if you have to beg someone to like you and see how great you are then they probably aren’t the one.

Jenna: What's next for you?

Bella: More of the same! I love my staff and what we do and I am incredibly proud of the work we turn out. Oh, and I am off to Paris in a few weeks and hope to come back with a ton of new ideas.

Thank you for this interview, Bella! Be sure to visit her beautiful portfolio at Bella Mancini Design.

Designer Profile: Interview with Barbara Franceski

This Designer Profile Series began as a little pipe dream in February and has quickly grown into interviews with fourteen top Interior Designers as a more personal look into their well-recognized careers. Their insight and advice has fed my desire to learn what it really takes to "make it", not just creatively but professionally, in the design industry and I've selfishly (I admit it) used this blog as reason to converse with some of those I most admire.  But fifteen just feels like a good number to end it on...

I've decided to end the series with one of Washington's finest designers, Barbara Franceski, whose sophisticated interiors are at once fresh, modern and timeless.  Since a young age, Barbara's artistic inclinations led her toward a career in interior design and her extensive travels have offered continuous inspiration.  As an NCIDQ-certified designer, Barbara and her namesake design firm have been recognized with numerous awards from the Washington design community. She is certainly a remarkable designer to watch and I'm so pleased to have her for the final interview here on The Beautiful Shelter.  Thank you Barbara!

Can you tell us about your first job in the design field?
Right out of college, I served as project manager assistant at a Knoll systems furniture dealer. I logged many hours on commercial and government installations and reconfigurations, did lots of space analysis and planning, specifying, and tracking. I went everywhere around DC--from the basement of the Pentagon to the Marine Corps Base in Quantico to law offices and federal government agencies. It sounds fun as a first job, but I quickly realized that the contract side of interior design wasn’t my thing. However, I will always be thankful for the experience, especially for the large amount of space planning I had to do which serves me well even today.

What is your design philosophy?
I always set out to create elegant, dynamic interiors. How I get there on each project may differ, but I pay attention first and foremost to the space and its architecture, the surroundings, and my client. A great deal of thought goes into my interiors. I don’t simply place a floor lamp next to a reading chair and declare mission accomplished! I care about the placement and shape of the chair, and the lines of the lamp in relation to the chair, plus how they both relate to what’s going on in the bigger context of the room and even the house. I tend to blend the classical with the contemporary, and have a good time playing with textures, patterns and colors. The end result is a smart, eye-appealing, eminently livable home.

What is your most memorable travel destination?
Positano on the Amalfi Coast of Italy is one of my favorite places in the world. Beyond gorgeous scenery, new adventures to be had around every corner, incredible food and drink, and a palpable sense of ease that makes you want to stay forever.

What are your “best practices” for accessorizing a room?
Art and accessories are what make a space complete. A room can have good bones, beautiful furniture, and still come off absolutely flat. It’s this last layer of personality that sets your home apart and quite frankly, makes you feel at home. That being said, I am somewhat of a minimalist when it comes to accessories. Every inch of wall space or table top does not need to be covered. Remember that the space around an object is just as important as the object itself. And, the ability to combine, edit and refine is essential.

What has been the greatest lesson since opening your business?
It’s two-fold. First is to be true to who I am. With that in motion, my value as “trusted advisor” to my clients is priceless.

Photography Credit: Angie Seckinger and Gunnar Westerlind

Thank you again Barbara!

Designer Profile: Interview with Andrea Monath Schumacher

I'm back from a short blogging hiatus with something that's sure to make up for lost time! 

I had the pleasure of interviewing Andrea Monath Schumacher, the remarkably talented Interior Designer whose work you've likely spotted in House Beautiful or Colorado Homes magazines.  Following her education at Colorado State and Harvard University, Andrea formed O Interior Design firm, where she has designed luxurious and personal interiors that are absolute design perfection.  Read on as she shares her unlikely introduction to interior design, a memorable African retreat and the foundation for her success.

Thank you Andrea for taking part in this series!

When did you know you were destined for a career in design? 

At 16 years old I got a backstage tour from a set designer at a rock n’ roll concert.  I was absolutely blown away by the innovation that went into creating that stage.  It was at that moment that I knew I wanted to pursue a career in set design.  Three years after that formative night I was fortunate enough to land a gig on the set of Days of our Lives, and I later worked with Columbia Pictures.   My time in set design inspired me and gave me the experience to confidently move into the world of residential and commercial interior design.   

What’s inspiring you right now? 

I am inspired by everyday items: a picture frame, a piece of clothing, a vintage photograph or my grandmother’s jewelry.  Even words or a piece of music can be inspiring.  The great designers of the 20th century, such as Albert Hadley and Dorothy Draper, are endlessly influencing me.  Today’s newest fabric introductions amaze me with their bold use of color, texture and pattern. 

What is your most memorable travel destination? 

I will never forget my trip to Botswana and South Africa.  Not only was the scenery and wildlife spectacular, but I was blown away by the design of the tented camps that we stayed in.  The level of luxury found in the midst of the African bush at Mombo Pool and King’s Camp was unreal (images attached).  These tents seamlessly blended in with the landscape surrounding them, and utilized colors and textures from nature to influence their design schemes. 

Do you have a favorite project to date? 

My absolute favorite project to date is with Fluff Beauty Bar out here in Denver.  Fluff is the hip alternative to a traditional full-service salon (it offers a full wine bar) and the owners wanted a glam and swanky space.  The concept allowed for endless creativity, which I truly thrive on.  We played with various shades and textures of whites, silvers and pale blues.  White glass Murano chandeliers, antiqued mirrors and globe-shaped fireplaces were just a few of the surprise elements we used to set this salon apart.   

What has been the greatest lesson since opening your business?
The greatest lesson since opening my business has been that the most important part of my inner success, my inner happiness, is fostering good relationships.  It's about the people, and the fact that I can positively impact their lives.  Your surroundings effect your mental and physical state and I am proud to be a part of that.   

  (I desperately want this powder room...)

Thank you again Andrea!

Designer Profile: Interview with Shirry Dolgin

With a modern and inviting portfolio, a Cum Laude degree in Interior Design and an L.A.-based design firm, there is so much to admire about Shirry Dolgin!  After discovering her work on Elle Decor's website, I'm so happy to introduce her as the next designer in this series.  It's always fun to hear about how someone so young attains this level of success, so thank you Shirry for taking part in this!

Becoming a Designer

I started working in the interior design industry as a second career option for me. This may sound funny since I am only 29, but the truth is that I spent all of my youth studying the performing arts. I was always attracted and influenced by everything in design including interiors, products, fashion, art, and architecture….but I never thought I would have a career like I do. I worked very hard in design school and also worked with several design companies before opening A.S.D. Interiors in 2004.

 

Inspiration
Inspiration is an abstract concept because it can come in the form of people I meet, books I read, art I see, fashion etc. The truth is that I am constantly looking for it and since my radar is open to receiving it, I find inspiration all over the place. Often times I find inspiration going to new coffee shops, clothing stores, or book stores and exploring new places that I haven't seen before....and travel is always a huge inspiration.

My design philosophy has many layers to it. I design my interiors to enhance people’s lives, make rooms contemporary and comfortable, and invest every dollar my client is spending wisely. I also try to make the process as easy and as simple as possible for my client while solving problems and coming up with wise solutions.

Globetrotting

I mentioned travel before and it is something I have been fortunate enough to experience starting at an early age. My mother in particular made it a point to have all of us travel nationally and internationally as she believed it would broaden our understanding of the world. And it did! I truly believe it’s the most valuable thing you can do for yourself in a lifetime.

I absolutely love traveling to big cities. I would have to say that my favorite travel destination is Tel Aviv, Israel. I always say that it feels like a mix between Manhattan and Paris! I love it not only because I get to visit my family, but I find that there is so much great energy and momentum from the people and culture there.

 

In House

As far as choosing a favorite room to design, I think it’s a tossup between the master bedroom and family room. I love doing master bedrooms because of the intimacy and sexiness of a master bedroom. Often times people ask for their master bedroom to feel like a hotel, and I have a lot of fun with that! Second is the family room because it’s usually the most public room in the house. I enjoy the challenge of trying to show a personality in that room which is cool and contemporary but also fun for entertaining!

Your Success

There are a lot of great project, both commercial and residential, that I am currently working on. In conjunction with them, I am writing a new online design book as well as launching a video series on my blog which will help homeowners spend their money wisely when designing their homes!

Designer Profile: Interview with Carole Freehauf

For this week's Designer Profile, I am overjoyed to have Carole Freehauf sharing her design wisdom and experience!  Carole is the Principal Designer at Carole Freehauf Design in Massachusetts, and her timeless and sophisticated interiors are the epitomy of refined living.

Formerly a Creative Director, Carole's artistic talents led her to embark on a career in interior design and form her namesake firm in 2004.  Her incredible eye for tailored millwork and use of bright whites with strong, dark wood grains are just two of the things that make my heart swoon when I look at her brilliant portfolio. 

Read on for more about Carole's artistic inclinations, design philosophy and most memorable destinations!  Thank you Carole for participating in this series!

Can you tell us about your first job in the design field?

I have always liked to make all sorts of things, and spent a great deal of time crafting or creating art as a kid: sewing, cooking, ceramics, jewelry, embroidery, painting and drawing. My first career as a graphic designer and art director was in many ways very satisfying, but home projects, where I could think about a space three dimensionally, and tap into many of those childhood pursuits, influenced my decision to transition into interior design about ten years ago. First I trained as a kitchen and bath designer, and then three years later started my own practice, so I could focus on the design and decoration of any area in a home. This initial kitchen and bath training was really advantageous, as I quickly learned a lot about construction. Consequently many of my projects have involved designing for extensive renovation first, with decoration well integrated into that process. Space planning, millwork, finish selections and furnishings are very much informed by the interior architecture.

What is your design philosophy?

I define it as simple luxury. Live with only what you love, and let a room breath. Figuratively this means, donʼt weigh the room down, or confuse your senses, with excess, and literally, let the outdoors in whenever possible. Pay attention to the tactile quality of objects as much as their form. Celebrate memories with art, mementos, and interesting family photographs. Really think of your home as being synonymous with who you are; fill it with comfort and a sense of calm.
  
What is your most memorable travel destination?

Itʼs hard to pinpoint one place, as most of my travels have been memorable for different reasons. Istanbul, Rome, Provence, London, Northern California and Wyoming are some of my favorites. Istanbul for the food, moorish architecture, and confluence of cultures. Rome for itʼs visible layers of modern and ancient history. Provence for biking, landscape, and farmers markets. London for shopping; walking; the parks; and museums, especially the Victoria and Albert, and the Churchill Museum. Northern California for spa treatments, biking, hiking and wine. Wyoming for incredible scenery and horseback riding. It would be fantastic to spend a month in each every year.

What are your “best practices” for accessorizing a room?

First, consider function: is the room equipped with essentials that add comfort and ease for how youʼll spend your time there? Then, think a bit like a curator, make each accessory interesting on itʼs own, and in the way itʼs combined with other objects. Natural elements add a sense of calm to a room. Mixing textures and finishes adds depth. Display personal artifacts collected over a period of time, and change or add to them periodically to keep a room fresh.

 

What has been the greatest lesson since opening your business?

Itʼs really important to continually reevaluate and streamline the design process, which is inherently complex. There are so many details and variables to consider to bring a project to completion. Clients value our ability to articulate and simplify the process almost as much as the end result.



Designer Series: Interview with Eve Robinson

I have no doubt the work of New York-based designer Eve Robinson is going to take your breath away!  Her keen eye for elegant furniture, soothing palettes and powerful architectural elements is truly just the beginning of her talent.  I couldn't resist presenting these photos in extra large format.  

Scattered among these spaces from Eve's portfolio, she shares her design philosophy, greatest lesson and how she got started!

Can you tell us about your first job in the design field?

My first project was working for a childhood friend and her husband.  Their aesthetic was much more traditional than mine but they trusted me.  I have done a total of 5 projects for the clients over the years.

What is your design philosophy?

Less is more.  Don’t overdo anything.

 

What is your most memorable travel destination?

Wales

What are your “best practices” for accessorizing a room?

Choose beautiful pieces and be conscious of color but don’t overdo.

What has been the greatest lesson since opening your business?

Follow up, provide excellent service, and check everything twice.

Thank you Eve!