I love the interior design business. It may not be rocket science, but I am helping create the heart of the home.

The home is where every family starts and ends its day. It is where souls are nurtured and
batteries recharged. Making a house a home, a place that embraces you and says “welcome,
please come in, relax and enjoy,” is my goal for every client. That is my reward and what
motivates me. So, I am thrilled with the opportunity to share with my Phi Mu sisters some
of what I’ve learned over the years of working with clients.

When working with a client, I try to incorporate several key philosophies into the design process:

Every room in your home should be used. No room should be “off limits.” Even with children and pets, a house should be a comfortable home.

Do not save your fine things (such as good silver and china and fine linens) for special occasions – enjoy them today.

Measure twice, cut once. In other words, be very sure of your specifications or limitations before tearing a wall down or buying a piece of furniture that may not fit. Make sure you have done your homework before it’s too late to avoid what could be a costly mistake.

Use your personal possessions to make your home uniquely yours. Matching everything is too predictable. Using different textures and shades of the same color make a room much more interesting and evolved.

Do not skimp on the “bones” of your room. Be prepared to spend on major items such as beautiful floors or antique beams, for example, which will set the tone of the room. Also a few quality antiques will last a lifetime and continue to appreciate.

Most of all, enjoy your decorating project and don’t be afraid to make a mistake! A wall can always be repainted if the color doesn’t work quite the way you intended. A professional interior designer can, in the long run, save you from costly missteps and help you in making that house your home.