Behind the Design: Elizabeth Aurandt of mercer INTERIOR

Designer Spotlight: Elizabeth Aurandt of mercer INTERIOR – New York/Hudson Valley, NY

What’s the most exciting part about starting a new project?

All of the amazing possibilities, being able to find cool new products, and developing a new relationship with my client.

How do you stay in-the know about new-to-market products and materials to incorporate in your designs?
I read a lot of design magazines and find inspiration everywhere, from trade shows, to photos I see on the Internet, to new spaces I see as I travel and visit clients and project sites.

mercer INTERIOR

Are there certain trends, materials and/or colors you’re particularly into right now?
I am enjoying the warm modern aesthetic right now. l love using natural textures mixed with simplified forms, and find ways to fit it into projects in more traditional homes. I enjoy a clean, uncluttered look.

Who are some of your favorite New York/Hudson Valley vendors that you enjoy working with?
I really like working with Watermark for plumbing work!

mercer INTERIOR

In your opinion, what’s the most essential element to a room?
I believe each space needs to have a balance between style and function – it’s important for each area to have a use, and I make sure that’s at the forefront of my design. At the same time, I want the space to be stylish and not look like something that was thrown together for utility.

How does designing make you feel?
Sometimes I feel very stressed, but when things are going well, I feel really energized! It’s often a roller coaster, with really high highs, and really stressful lows, but I absolutely love it and wouldn’t have it any other way!

mercer INTERIOR

What’s your business mantra?
Balance function and amazing style with quality and great design.

When you start a new project, how do you get to know your client and the space?
We speak on the phone, meet in person in the space, and I take a lot of “before” photos of any space I work on. This helps me understand my starting point so I know if I can use some of what is already there to help keep client costs as low as possible!

mercer INTERIOR

How do you maintain good relationships with tradespeople and contractors?
I try to focus on communication and timely payments. I know most things can be solved quickly and easily with a phone call or a visit to the project site, and I firmly believe in showing appreciation for the people I work with on projects. Making sure payments are made on time is always a good idea too, as it confirms that their work is valued, and they know they can trust me.

What’s the most exciting part about being an interior designer? And what’s the most daunting part?

Exciting: Completing a project and when the client is thrilled! I’m not in this for the money.

Daunting: There is always something that goes wrong which comes with a lot of stress and headache. There’s never a way to predict which problem is going to happen, and when, so trying to always stay on top of that can be stressful. Even when a problem is completely out of my control, I always feel personally responsible for something that may go wrong.

mercer INTERIOR

In your opinion, how is the interior design industry evolving over time?

I feel like there is some negative evolution because of speed and easy access to everything. People believe they are an expert designer simply because they can put together a cute Pinterest board. The advent of HGTV and quickie design shows make it look like it’s a quick process – very trivial, and simple, but it’s far from it. There is great detail that goes into any kind of design work that people don’t see on shows like that, so they don’t always have realistic expectations when it comes to their own design work. One thing I am loving is the trend returning to handmade, small-batch products from makers, people who still believe in the art of making things with their hands, from scratch. There is a lot more uniqueness in the market now because people are veering less towards mass-produced items, and more towards unique, handmade pieces. There are a lot of cool new designers and makers popping up – getting to see this first hand has been fun!

Why did you join Ivy?

I came across Ivy by accident on Facebook – I thought Ivy looked interesting so I went to the website to check it out. I had never invested in business management software before, but I knew it was time considering I was feeling overwhelmed by the manual work. I was impressed with the functionality of Ivy, even in the early iterations of the product.

mercer INTERIOR

How has Ivy helped to ease your pain points?
Ivy keeps everything organized nicely and makes creating proposals, generating purchase orders and ordering products very easy. I also like that Ivy integrates with QuickBooks Online. I love that the Ivy team is always very responsive and has a passion for discovering new ways to help each individual designer with their specific needs and preferences.

What’s an Ivy feature you can’t live without?
The connection to QuickBooks Online, as this integration has made a significant positive impact on my accounting.

mercer INTERIOR

Photography courtesy of Emily Gilbert

Bring Your Clients’ Stories to Life With Framebridge

Looking for a way to impress your clients? Try framing your clients’ most cherished memories via Framebridge, the online custom framing company on a mission to change the “frame game”. Simply upload a digital file (which Framebridge will print and frame), or mail in a physical piece (such as a post card) and Framebridge will send you a secure pre-paid mailer for you to mail them the piece.

Tight on time? Framebridge will pair you with an in-house consultant who will recommend the right frame for the right piece or space, as well as recommend frames to include in a pre-existing gallery wall collection. You can even preview your piece in various frames based on your preference or their recommendation. From now on, skip your trip to the framer! Once you’ve made a selection, Framebridge will custom build your frame within 2-3 days and then mail to you, free of charge.

Framebridge walks us through the super-easy framing process, helping interior designers execute their vision, and how to style a gallery wall. Using Framebridge for the first time? Enjoy 15% off your first order using code “ivymark15” (valid through 5/31/2017).

What makes Framebridge “the internet’s best framing service”?

We make it super easy to frame anything you love!

Framebridge

How does the Framebridge framing process work exactly?

If you have a digital photo or art file, simply upload it to our site, choose your frame style, and we’ll print it in-house at one of our factories in Maryland or Kentucky. We’ll custom frame your piece and ship it back to you framed and ready to hang. If you have a physical item (like a matchbook, a set of keys, a photo strip), let us know the dimensions and we’ll send you pre-paid packaging so you can send it our way. Pick the style of frame you want, mail your artwork in, and then sit back and wait for your custom creation to be sent back. Shipping is always on us! Just let us know what type of packaging you need for your item. The return shipment also includes hanging hardware, leaving you approximately zero reasons to not have a beautifully appointed living space.

Prices are clear based on the size of whatever you’re framing, ranging from $39-$159. See all prices here.

Our goal is to use technology to modernize an outdated industry, and leverage a focus on the customer.

Framebridge

What are the different types of framing services Framebridge offers?

As long as it is under 32 x 40 inches, we can frame it! Our customers come to us for everything from photos, to wedding vows, to art prints.

In your opinion, how has technology affected the modern day art & framing world?

Our goal is to use technology to modernize an outdated industry, and leverage a focus on the customer. We have a proprietary in-house work flow tool that we use to create efficiencies in building our product. We utilize technology to create a production process that is efficient and seamless, so we can create a custom product at scale. We know that our customers expect quality, speed, and personalization, so we work really hard to make the customer first in all aspects of the business, and to even exceed their expectations.

Owning our full line of production also allows us to handle small projects for in-home installations, all the way to large-scale hotel projects.

Love Taza

What are some of your best-selling frames?

Customers love both our clean gallery frames Irvine and Mercer, as well as some of our funkier frames like our bamboo gold Mandalay frame, and our burl wood Cairo frame. We also offer our customers an option called Designer’s Choice, our design experts will review your art and propose four flattering styles. We’ll email you our picks, you’ll make the final decision, and we’ll begin framing right away. This is a super popular choice as well!

Who are some of the featured artists who have been working with?

Artists are at the core of what we do, and we are so lucky to work with so many incredible and talented artists! A few artists we work with are The Cartorialist, Amber Vittoria, Garance Dore, L eslee Mitchell, Kate Worum, Laura Berger, and Shantelle Martin. Check out some more of our featured artists here.

Framebridge is also proud to work with artists and interior designers through our Framebridge Art & Trade Program. We offer a wide array of perks for being part of the program: drop shipping, consultative services, a point person who can simplify large orders, and easy invoice management to name a few.

Framebridge

The Framebridge Blog captures special moments that are framed…what are some inspiring Framebridge framing stories?

We have so many! We have really found that every customer has an amazing story. You really only frame things that are meaningful to you, things you love, so we hear amazing stories every day. A few favorites include a photo from the moment a young boy met President Obama, the rules that four siblings made when they were little and built a cardboard fort, and this little girl who got a little sick on a trip to Spain and ended up being a flamenco dancer for a day.

Framebridge

What’s the best way to style a gallery wall?

We love designing gallery walls! We offer a Gallery Wall Service which gives customers the ability to work one-on-one with a member of our design team to create the gallery wall of their dreams. We help you sort through photography, physical objects, and the style that you’re going for so your gallery wall will be the perfect reflection of both you and your space. A few other helpful tips on how to hang your gallery wall can be found here.

@Yummertime

How does Framebridge typically work with interior designers?

We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with so many amazing interior designers to offer custom framing for their customers! We help make their vision a reality through sending chop samples to show clients during consultations, customized mounting and mat options, with quick turnaround and drop shipping directly to the end customer. Owning our full line of production also allows us to handle small projects for in-home installations, all the way to large-scale hotel projects.

Can you offer interior designers some tips on how to select the best frames for their clients?

Generally, when you look at a piece of art that needs framing, first consider the style of art. Consider the style of the space where you plan to hang it. Try to narrow down frame choices to a few options that really flatter the art piece, and then pick the one that looks best in the space. The great news is that clean, modern frames look great with any style of art and decor, so you can never go wrong with those!

But of course, don’t be afraid to add a little extra drama! The great thing about art is that it’s subjective, so it’s okay to consider frame styles that speak to you personally, and how you interpret the piece your framing.

Framebridge

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.

Behind the Design: Jessica Lynn Williams

Designer Spotlight: Jessica Lynn Williams – New York, NY

How did you get where you are today?

I’m originally from Frederick, Maryland and moved to Baltimore for art school (MICA). After graduating, an internship opportunity with Nate Berkus led me to Chicago and it was there that my interest in interior design was solidified. I had a fulfilling summer internship and freelance gigs with Jonathan Adler during college, and it was always my goal to return to New York for work. Currently, and for the foreseeable future, I’m in New York City and excited to continue growing my business and life here.

Luke Williams

How do you ensure that the foundation of each space you design pays homage to its original building elements, while telling a visual story of your client’s aesthetic?

I’m a naturally curious person and ask a lot of questions about the space or home before I propose a vision for my clients. The questions may include when it was built, how long have they lived there, the origin of the tile floors/mantles/millwork, etc. One “designer rule” I try to set for myself is to select pieces that contextually and visually make sense, rather than chase after trends. This plays into my hope to do more restoration and preservation work in the future as well. Once I understand the groundwork for a home, I help clients layer accents that may tell their story, like hanging a collection of plates from their travels abroad.

Who photographs your finished projects? How do you prepare a project space for a photoshoot?

My husband, Luke Williams, has photographed my work starting from the early days of shooting tableaus on the floor of my college dorm, to my current larger projects. As my clientele and scope of work grow, I will begin working more with Brooklyn photographer, Tory William (no relation, I wish!). We are in the infancy stage of documenting new bio and interior images which I’m excited to share in the coming months. I find that preparing for our photoshoots requires more legwork than most of the design process. I pack my Jeep with accessories found from high and low sources and physically clean and style the vignettes for a few key shots. This exercise of styling has been successful for two reasons – the client and I are able to see how details can transform their space, and they’re able to purchase the accessories directly. It’s a rewarding finale, and the hustle is certainly present!

Luke Williams

How do you maintain healthy relationships with the vendors and tradespeople you work with?

Simple manners go a long way! I trust my makers to provide quality goods and encourage creative freedom whenever I can. Most vendors also prefer to have one spokesperson to avoid any miscommunication or overlap, which I’m often sensitive to.

Who are some of your favorite New York vendors?

Studio Four NYC, Holler & Squall, Rooted Construction, Pacama Handmade, and my upcoming venture (with fellow designer, April Bovet) called The Parlour New York.

Luke Williams

How does designing make you feel?

Complete. Independent.

What’s your business mantra?

Interior Design is a conversation; it only works if all voices are active and flexibility is understood.

Luke Williams

In your opinion, how essential is the look & feel of your website to the success of your business?

A website is a digital version of yourself. It should express your personality and the ways that you can help potential clients.

Do you dabble in e-design? If so, which platforms do you use?

Not officially, but many projects are completely virtual.

Luke Williams

Which tools do you use to create 2D floor plans and 3D models?

I use Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, CAD and SketchUp to create presentation docs and renderings.

When you start a new project, how do you get to know your client and the space?

I ask the client questions, look at the accents around the home, observe how the clients are dressed, and request images for an aspirational look.

Luke Williams

How do you build your billing structure for new projects?

I charge flat fees for quick moving projects (bill half up front and half at completion). Other projects are hourly when there’s not an endpoint in place (bill at the top of each month).

Why did you join Ivy?

I was craving a digital platform like Ivy for years as a way of consolidating all project details. It helps that the Ivy interface is simple and beautiful too!

Luke Williams

How has Ivy helped streamline your workflow?

I’m invoicing more frequently, managing individual project dates more efficiently, and becoming organized with purchased items per project.

What’s an Ivy feature you can’t live without?

The business stats on the Ivy dashboard. It shows growth or distribution of funds.

Luke Williams

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 Bounce Back to Work After a Long Weekend

It’s Monday and you just started to get into vacation mode – what a tease. Come Tuesday morning, it will be time to step back into the office and face the client questions on proposals, email follow-ups, reconciling your taxes, and scheduling meetings for the week to come. Many of you will feel as sad as an un-tiled bathroom.

Not to worry! Follow these attainable tips to jumpstart your week with little to no long-weekend scaries.

Get Back to You

Although we long for vacations to get out of the daily routine, a smart way to get back on track is to give yourself some structure. Wake up early, have your go-to coffee (an extra cup won’t kill ya), eat what your body is used to, and go to sleep at an early hour (no time for Netflix binging). Structure will help your mind and body ease back into your day-to-day in a healthy way.

Rise Early

Rip off the bandaid and start bright and early. The earlier you wake, the more time you’ll have in your day to get things done. Day 1 back in the office will be the hardest, but give yourself a couple of extra hours to enjoy your coffee, answer urgent emails, and dive right in.

Take Your Time

You may feel the external pressures with hundreds of unread emails, but don’t overwhelm yourself! Go at your own pace, one step at a time. Morning meditation is a fan favorite! Be sure to eat well and get your blood flowing – activity releases your “feel good” serotonin chemicals and regulates your mood. Making mindful choices also comes with increased productivity and creativity.

Make a List

No app, software or digital tool can replace the hand-written “To-Do” list. While you’re enjoying your coffee, take a few minutes to jot down your major priorities for the day (the musts at the top and the not-so-important on the bottom).

Tune In Your Creative Side

Kick-off your week doing what you love, design. Have a pending proposal you need to finalize for a client? Finish sourcing those fabrics and send off! This will give you a design fix while also accomplishing something your client is looking forward to reviewing after the long weekend. You’ll have your most mental energy in the morning so don’t save the best for last, start with it!

Prioritize Money

Still have outstanding invoice payments from the previous month? Start off the week by sending friendly nudges to your clients. Kindly ask them about their holiday weekend and remind them about pending payments. Being nice goes a long way.

Ivy is the the # 1 software for designers. To learn more about Ivy, schedule a demo with an Ivy Guru who can show you how designers use Ivy to streamline their workflow and make more time for what they love, design.

Preserving American Manufacturing & Design With Schoolhouse Electric

When you think of All-American design, you think of Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co., founded by Brian Faherty in 2003 after discovering a collection of long-lost cast-iron glass shade moulds in an abandoned warehouse. After restoring the moulds back into production, the Schoolhouse Electric team has continued to grow every year since, becoming a trusted name in the industry for high quality, long-lasting designs. Schoolhouse Electric is one of the few dedicated to preserving American manufacturing through mindful living and timeless functional design.

With a focus on quality, Schoolhouse Electric is all about wanting better, not more. From iconic lighting and furniture, to clocks and domestic utility products, Schoolhouse designs are goods that you’ll not only want to have now, but use forever. They have also managed to perfect the brass finish. Schoolhouse Electric shares their commitment to American craftsmanship, tapping into the maker community, and the benefits of factory direct.

Photography courtesy of Schoolhouse Electric

In 140 characters or less, what is Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co. all about?

“Want better, not more.” Our aim is to create the next generation of heirlooms. We embody a uniquely American aesthetic and way of living.

Schoolhouse Electric’s warehouse turned factory + retail space is headquartered in Portland, Oregon – what a city! How has the culture and lifestyle of Portland influenced Schoolhouse Electric’s design and brand vision?

Portland is filled with so many hardworking craftspeople who are committed to quality. We are very fortunate to be surrounded by such talented individuals who strive to be the best in their fields. The unique community of makers in Portland inspires and challenges us to pursue excellence daily.

Schoolhouse Electric

Schoolhouse Electric is known for mixing styles and eras, with a strong focus on quality. How do you manage to achieve this in your production process, from inspiration to final product?

Very few companies design and produce under one roof, and this is part of what makes what we do attainable. The collaborative nature of our work allows us to have our hands in everything from pipedream stages to finished product.

Schoolhouse Electric

As a manufacturing company, Schoolhouse Electric Co. sells factory direct. What does that mean for the interior designers involved in your trade program?

Factory direct is a huge benefit. By selling directly to designers, we are able to avoid traditional markups and come in lower on costs from the get-go. It also allows for an open line of communication with the very makers of our light fixtures, clocks, and lifestyle goods. We pride ourselves on the level of expertise we are able to provide to interior designers simply because we know our products and those who work hard to make it.

How does Schoolhouse Electric typically work with interior designers?

Our goal is to be a resource. We’re dedicated to building long-term relationships with our interior designers. No matter the project, we’re committed to providing support throughout the entire process from start to finish.

What should interior designers learn and understand about furniture and lighting before sourcing items for their clients and projects?

We believe in our product, and we believe that we produce quality lighting and source high-end trade goods for fair and competitive prices.

Based on your knowledge of the industry, what are some modern day issues impacting the furniture and lighting business?

The industry is becoming more and more saturated. There are a lot of options out there and it can be challenging to navigate. We also manufacture our products, so there are often lead times associated. In this “Amazon era”, we try and encourage our customers to “Want Better, Not More”.

In this day and age, how important is social media, marketing and content to the growth and success of Schoolhouse Electric?

It has a huge impact. Social media is directly linked to brand identity. It allows for engagement like never before, and provides a platform for us to share and participate in meaningful moments. We are incredibly thankful for our online community.

Schoolhouse Electric is a go-to vendor for a lot of Ivy interior designers. What are some of your best-selling categories and products?

Luna fixtures, Jack Collection, brass hardware, and Kennedy Clocks. Also, all things brass! Inside the Schoolhouse factory, we finish our lighting and many other products by hand. We’ve worked hard to perfect our brass finish – it comes as no surprise that it is an all-time favorite.

Schoolhouse Electric

What is your focus for 2017?

We have a lot of initiatives this year, all of which we are very excited for! With that said, our primary focus is to bulk out our trade experience specifically for interior designers and architects. We have some great things currently in the works, so stay tuned!

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 You Can Express Your Love For Your Clients

Valentine’s Day is wonderful opportunity to show your loved ones how much you care, including your clients. As an interior designer, your client is someone you connect with regularly, on a very personal level. Your client is someone who has entrusted you to re-design their home so you can enrich their quality of life. This makes you memorable and a person they certainly care for! This Valentine’s Day, go the extra mile and share the love with your current and past clients with a little something special to make them smile.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Interweb to the Rescue

Didn’t have time for hand-written notes? You can thank your clients near and far for their loyalty and business with a social media post, newsletter or e-card. Whether it be a Valentine’s themed giphy, or shout out to your audience on Instagram and Facebook, acknowledging your client-base and thanking them for their business is always appreciated.

Send a Last Minute Bloom

Sending flowers to your current clients or recently closed projects is a nice way to say “I’m thinking of you” while warming up the space you so wonderfully designed. This also gives you the opportunity to show off your taste yet again with a bouquet that reflects your aesthetic. BloomThat is offering last minute blooms for same day delivery!

Service is Everything

Tune in your inner customer support rep. Yes, your client hired you for your design expertise, however, flexibility, compassion and understanding comes with the gig. Going back and forth with a recommended tile for a backsplash or dealing with an indecisive client? Mind your manners and remind yourself that the client comes first and patience is a virtue. Patience might feel unnoticed at times, but this habit will take you far.

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.

Behind the Design: Megan Wunderlich of The DesignDot

Designer Spotlight: Megan Wunderlich of The DesignDot – New Canaan, CT

How did you get where you are today?

I am from Western Illinois and grew up in a small, state college town. Becoming a teacher, doctor, lawyer, or professor were the kinds of careers surrounding me. Or, you owned land and farmed, and worked in sales or trades to support agricultural businesses. I had always wanted to work in an industry that afforded me independence to have my own life. I never studied art since I didn’t see it as an avenue for a career that would afford me independence and a steady income. I studied psychology, communications, and business instead. After graduating and working with IBM in HR for some time, I bought my first house with my college sweetheart in Fairfield County, CT. I realized how sensitive I was to my environment and that I needed to learn how to make a nice home for myself. I considered working in the industry of interiors to contribute my business skills while learning something that could enrich my quality of life.

I followed a typical path to becoming a residential interior designer. I began classes at the New York School of Interior Design once I realized I did not want to trade-off raising my children for a career that didn’t value me. IBM was a performance based culture that was constantly hiring and laying off. I thought it was in my best interest to take better control of my career and become specialized in something that I cared for so much that I would fight to perform my best.

Choosing the Interior Design Industry was a life decision I made nearly 12 years ago. From design coursework, to photo stylist, to residential design assistant, local house tours, and then retail boutique + design assistant came the industry experience to open DesignDot. At the time, I didn’t see a design practice in Fairfield County that provided honest, homespun interior design for residences at fair prices. It didn’t make sense to me that it didn’t exist because luxury design was everywhere, and the rest is history. I opened up shop with DesignDot to offer luxury design for everyone.

DesignDot values the diversity of design perspectives and greatly respects the collaborative process. How do you ensure your approach is tailored and client centered?

We begin with shared images that the client finds using Pinterest or Image Sharing on our Apple devices. Then, as designers, we break apart the design elements and advise on curating new goods, or a design scheme based on the individual’s tastes, lifestyle desires, and the context of the home. It’s really not about the designer at all. We designers use our design skills the best way that we can for a particular client.

Jane Beiles

How do you maintain healthy relationships with the vendors and tradespeople you work with?

I try to always respond to emails and phone calls! If someone writes or calls, I try to take the time to call back, even if it’s just to say “hey, thanks for contacting me”.

Who are some of your favorite New Canaan vendors that you work with?

All of the local boutiques. I believe in sharing quality of life with everyone. Having a strong local boutique culture creates beautiful little towns. We all need to shop local when we can, enjoy picking up small goods, or larger items that can add to your lifestyle.

Jane Beiles

How does designing make you feel?

Productive!

What’s your business mantra?

Go slow to go fast.

Jane Beiles

When you start a new project, how do you get to know your client and the space?

I look and listen. It’s pretty simple. I try to be present in the space with the client and ask questions about how that person lives and how they’d like to feel in the space, and use the space.

How has your team embraced technology with both your client-facing affairs and back-end project management?

DesignDot can only design affordably if we do it more efficiently than most high-end luxury designers. So, we have to always be on top of technology that works to make us faster at what we do. That includes using Pinterest with our clients, Image Sharing for our photos, and IvyMark for our design business. All of these applications work wonderfully on our iPads and iPhones. We are a mobile device design business. It’s really wonderful. Our workday can be anywhere.

Janeivy Hilario

Considering the proliferation of online tools for clients to source and purchase independently, what value does Design Dot bring to the table?

Our value is that of design. DesignDot offers a community of designers to the client with no obligation to purchase goods. We create schemes, and advise on space layouts and the specification of goods. We do not re-sell goods, we are service-based and charge hourly for our service. Or, we offer flat-fee services like our StyleDiary or Marketplace Design at our partner local boutiques.

How do you manage your accounting?

With the help of my wonderful office manager and bookkeeper, Tasia! Plus, IvyMark and its capability to feed into QuickBooks Online.

Janeivy Hilario

Why did you join Ivy?

It is such an efficient tool that allows a service-based practice like DesignDot to keep track of work hours on projects and billing out to the client immediately with the option to accept payment from the emailed invoice. The tool also allows us to keep good track of goods for our larger residential jobs where we purchase items as purchasing agents with an agreement that everything will be stored and installed on a specified day.

How has Ivy helped you get a better hold of your business?

It is so simple and efficient. We enter our goods, hours, proposals, and invoices one time, and Ivy takes it from there. We are not spending hours trying to track or communicate client and project information, especially since we can use Ivy from our mobile devices!

What’s an Ivy feature you can’t live without?

Hours tracking and proposals.

Janeivy Hilario

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.

Using Leather As a Creative Canvas With AVO

AVO, founded by Brit Kleinman in 2014, combines her passion for materials and painting to bring her creative vision to life using leather as her canvas, a material we have used since the dawn of time. From pillows and furnishings to wall coverings, AVO develops dynamic visuals, playing with materials, patterns and shapes, most notably known for their “Painted Plains” collection.

Brit shares with us her infatuation with the durability and possibilities of leather, putting leather to good use, and her vision behind AVO’s 2017 collection “In Context”.

AVO, founded in 2014, takes an anthropological approach to design – how has your upbringing, education and travels fueled this inspiration?

Travel has been one of the biggest influences in my life and design work. There is an intangible knowledge gained by seeing how life exists in different places. It highlights the similarities and exposes the differences of the simple everyday occurrences. Upon entering college, I wanted to pursue a painting major, but enjoyed building three-dimensional objects. After learning more about Industrial Design, I knew it was the perfect fit. Studying at The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) gave me a working knowledge of materials and how to translate ideas into reality. It’s been within these experiences that I’ve found a passion for how design can be a common language.

Jeremy Sachs-Michaels

We read that you began your career designing bags and pursuing your passion project, “The Way We Carry”, studying the carrying culture and how we (as people) carry things from place to place. What are some of your inspiring takeaways that influence your design?

Humans are nomadic toolmakers. And with tools, comes the need to carry them with us. While a common human experience, this can play out drastically differently across the globe. Exploring the “Way We Carry” was my first fascination that led me down the path I’m still on today, looking at how culture can shape the objects within it. It also led me to work for many years as a bag designer, which in turn exposed me to working with leather as a material.

We have been using this material since the beginning of time for a reason. It lasts.

Jeremy Sachs-Michaels

What’s AVO’s production process, from inspiration to painting tiles and hide?

I very rarely draw out a design before I begin. I am a very material-driven designer and like to dive right in to see how the material will react to my ideas. One concept might work really well on paper and not translate onto leather. It is fun to go so in depth with one material and explore its possibilities.

Leather is a by-product of the meat and dairy industry and instead of having it thrown away; we choose to put it to good use.

Jeremy Sachs-Michaels

How does designing making you feel, especially when you’re using your hands?

It puts me in my happy place. That place where time doesn’t exist and for an instant it all makes sense.

SDK Photography

You’ve collaborated with Google, Madewell, and the Ladies & Gentlemen Studio to name a few…what are some upcoming collaborations we should know about?

This year I am doing a different furniture collaboration with the incredibly talented Asher Israelow. Plus, I’m expanding into accessories with a shoe collaboration with Sabah. All of the shoes are going to be handmade in Turkey with our leathers.

Whenever you work with a fellow creative, the most exciting part is getting to see another perspective.

Jeremy Sachs-Michaels

We’re particularly in love with the “Painted Plains Hide” 2016 collection – what’s in store for 2017?

My new collection is called “In Context” and explores the texture and color of my everyday surroundings. Included in the new assortment will be a leather upholstery collection, leather floor tiles, and yes…bags!

SDK Photography

Which hides, pillows and tiles are your best-sellers?

Most recently, Sunburst Dash has been our number one. I personally love this pattern because it shows off the hand-made element in the mark making.

AVO Sunburst Dash Rug

How does AVO prepare for a design conference, trade show, or fair?

We are in the middle of this right now, preparing for Architectural Digest Design Show and ICFF. It takes an incredible amount of work, and I really could not do this with out my amazing team. It takes one part of the brain to design and make product, and another to figure out how to display it in a way that voices your message. What I love about the challenge is getting to create environments for the products to live in.

AVO

What do you like most about collaborating with interior designers?

Whenever you work with a fellow creative, the most exciting part is getting to see another perspective. Since most of our collection is made to order, it really gives the freedom to customize for the space and give the client exactly what they need.

New York Times

When an interior designer approaches you about a project – what types of guiding questions do you ask to get a sense of the client’s space and aesthetic?

I always ask for a mood-board to get a feeling for the direction. Obviously, I’m a visual person so images of the space help me contextualize how our designs fits in.

AVO

What are 3 tips of “best practices” to offer interior designers for choosing the right leather goods and making the most out of leather when decorating a space?

1. The first thing to remember is that leather does not come on a roll. I am always thinking about how to maximize the space of the hide and decrease left over waste, depending on the end use.

2. Second is to remember that leather is a natural product, and that’s why we love it! Leather is a by-product of the meat and dairy industry and instead of having it thrown away; we choose to put it to good use. We respect the inherent character leather has and embrace it through our designs.

3. And last but not least, leather is durable! We have been using this material since the beginning of time for a reason. It lasts.

Jeremy Sachs-Michaels

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.

Behind the Design: Kristen O’Malley of Kristen O’Malley Design

Design Spotlight: Kristen O’Malley of Kristen O’Malley Design – Los Angeles, CA

Kristen – how did you get where you are today?

I grew up in the beautiful Hudson Valley, about two hours north of New York City. My parents still live there and enjoy beautiful autumns, and shovel snow all winter. I enjoy our visits, but found my true home away from home when I moved to sunny Venice, California. I live about six blocks from the beach and it is my happy place.

I credit my dad for giving me my initial design inspiration. He was a self-taught electronics technician and programmer for IBM for most of his career. He can fix or build anything. He even built one of our televisions! When I was growing up, I designed projects with him in our wood shop and learned early on how to use a drill and table saw. My mom worked as a realtor and I also learned a lot from her about home staging.

When I went to college in Virginia, I studied International Affairs because I wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. After one brutal year working for a government consulting firm, I knew that wasn’t my path. My first production job was at PBS and I worked my way up to Production Designer at Discovery Channel and BBC America. During my free time, I studied interior design and took art classes at the Corcoran School of Design. I merged my design and production backgrounds when I was hired to work as the Behind-the- Scenes Designer on the shows Get It Sold, KidSpace, and Curb Appeal.

I took a leap of faith ten years ago, sold everything that wouldn’t fit in my car, and drove out to California to work on scripted television and movies. It was the scariest and best decision I ever made. I joined the Set Decorator union and have worked on everything from soap operas to big budget features. I also met my husband, who happens to be an amazing architect and can fix or build anything (just like my dad)! We collaborate on pretty much all of our design projects – most of them modern, residential homes. When he started his company, Guban Architecture (www.guban.com), I kept getting called in by his clients to work on their interiors. It’s been a long, winding path to get to where I am today!

You reside in sunny Los Angeles working as a set decorator and interior designer. For you personally, what are the differences in designing for a set vs. an interior?

Today I balance both Set Decorating and Interior Design projects. There are aspects that I love about both types of work. I have a three-year-old daughter, so I love having more flexibility with my schedule when I work on interiors. I also enjoy being able to source beautiful furnishings without limitations. Set Decorating projects are exciting and fast paced, but the hours can be grueling and unforgiving. The timelines are so fast that you are limited to rentals from prop houses or in-stock items from local vendors. However, with both, my favorite part is seeing the amazing transformations on the install days. It makes it worth all the hard work when it comes together!

Kristen O’Malley Design

What are some interesting sets you’re working on at the moment?

I sign non-disclosure agreements for all my set work, so, I unfortunately can’t tell you about my latest project until it airs. Some career highlights would be designing Gwen Stefani and Pharrell’s studios for The Voice, creating Julia Robert’s run-down house in The Secret in Their Eyes, and winning an Emmy for my sets on The Talk.

How do you stay current and source interesting, new-to-market products and materials to incorporate in your designs?

I’m always finding amazing new designers and products on Instagram. I’m afraid I have a bit of an addiction! Of course, getting outside and traveling to new places is always the biggest inspiration. This year we have a trip planned to visit our friends in Ecuador and see their latest architecture project, The Gaia (www.laarquitectos.com/GAIA) and then Spain in the summer. I search for cool, modern rentals and hotels for our stays, and we always come away with new ideas.

Guban Architecture

Who are some of your favorite LA vendors that you work with?

There are so many! Some of my favorites are Mirena Kim Ceramics, Atelier de Troupe, Stahl & Band, Lawson Fenning, and Garde.

How does designing make you feel?

Energized! I especially love the conceptual phases and the final installs.

ShootingLA.com

You are a busy bee – how do you juggle multiple businesses and projects at once while staying organized?

I try to focus on only one or two projects at a time, but usually need to bring in help for all the administration. Once a project is finished, I’m usually full speed into the next one. I definitely need to find more time to take professional photographs and put together a website that highlights my interiors and not just my set work. There isn’t enough time in the day! Did I mention I also have a three year old?! She is usually out in the shop with us working on her own models. I try to spend as much time in with her as I can, so the marketing usually gets pushed to the back burner.

When you start a new interior design project, how do you get to know your client and the space?

I approach my client projects the same way I do sets. Every person is a unique character that you need to get to know in order to understand how they want to live in their space. Most of our contracts stipulate that the client cooks a meal for us at their home. This allows us to see how they use their space and determine their needs, while also getting to know them better. It helps determine counter heights, cabinet layouts, and overall feel and has become an invaluable part of our process.

ShootingLA.com

Why did you join Ivy?

I signed up for Ivy to help streamline my invoices and bookkeeping. I found the interface to be more intuitive than QuickBooks. I also like all of the customizable features and new additions that are constantly being rolled out.

How has Ivy helped streamline your workflow?

It helps keep all of my projects organized. Clients also seem to love that they can see everything clearly on the invoices and have online payment options.

What’s an Ivy feature you can’t live without?

The incredible customer service! Whenever I have a question, regardless of the time or day, someone is available to help me within a of couple minutes.

ShootingLA.com

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.

Source Sustainable Bedding For Your Clients With Ettitude

Bedding company Ettitude is the first in the world to make bedding with 100% Organic Bamboo Lyocell fabric. What does that get you? “Vegan Silk” with a feathery soft and silky smooth texture, sustainable and chemical-free as an added bonus. These days, clients not only seek aesthetically pleasing sheets, but bedding that helps them sleep better at night, and as an interior designer, it’s your responsibility to source the best of both worlds. The Ettitude collection offers affordable and heavenly soft bedding in a variety of colors, ranging from the basics to the bold and bright.

Ettitude shares their innovative secret to 100% bamboo bedding, designing in-house and working directly with the manufacturer to keep costs down, and how bedding ties up the whole look of a finished room.

We spend ⅓ of our lives in bed – how does Ettitude bedding help you sleep better
and healthier?

When you sleep with ettitude, you are sleeping on the softest organic bamboo bedding, naturally derived from 100% Organic Bamboo Lyocell. Not only does this sustainably made fabric gives you a healthy sleep, it is also good for your hair, skin and the environment.

Ettitude

Ettitude is based in Australia – how has the culture and lifestyle of Australia influenced your designs?
When we created our first two collections, we took inspirations from Australian landscape and named them Bondi and Daydream, named after Bondi Beach and Daydream Island. Initially, we only offered Australian bedding sizes but now we also cater for American bedding sizes. Who knew bedding sizing is such a complicated thing and it’s different all around the world! Australia and the U.S. also have different bedding terminologies – flat sheet vs top sheet, doona vs comforter, duvet vs quilt etc.

We also source inspirations from all over the place, the internet, everyday life, magazines, art. When we design a product, we constantly think about who’s our customer, who’s going to sleep with ettitude, what do we want to say to our customers, where we’re coming from in terms of our brand philosophy and aesthetics.

Since we’re a small company, we can be nimble and address market demands with much shorter lead time. If something isn’t out there yet, we will make it, we can make samples whenever we want since we work directly with our supplier. It’s not just about being quick, it’s also about getting it right. We want to be careful with each of our product launch and take our time with it to deliver the highest product quality possible.

Ettitude

How is Ettitude different from the other modern bedding companies out there such as Parachute and Brooklinen?
We’ve distinguished our brand from other bedding brands by focusing on using innovative, sustainable bedding materials, we are the first in the world to make bedding with 100% Organic Bamboo Lyocell fabric.

Ettitude

Ettitude offers 100% soft organic bamboo sheets at an affordable price. How does
Ettitude manage to keep prices down?
By selling directly online to consumers and remove middlemen, we are simplifying the traditional retail process, eliminating brick-and-mortar expenses to pass the savings onto customers by offering accessible prices. We believe good quality bedding should be an affordable luxury.

Ettitude

Why does Ettitude use bamboo over cotton and lyocell?
While cotton production is labor intensive and uses a ton of chemicals and fresh water, bamboo fabric production is a lot more sustainable – the fiber yield per acre from bamboo is up to 10 times higher than cotton, and it requires less than 1/10 of the water that cotton needs. Bamboo is a self-regenerating plant, its actual plant matter acts as a natural pesticide so it doesn’t require further treatments or chemicals, and can be grown 100% organically. You can sleep with peace of mind, knowing that your sheets are completely free from harmful chemicals.

The main reason we use 100% Organic Bamboo Lyocell is that it is one of the most sustainable resources and no one has done that before! Lyocell is fabricated in a closed-loop system which water is recycled and reused for up to 200 times. Traditional lyocell is made from wood pulp while ours is made from organic bamboo, which is a self-regenerating, renewable crop that requires minimal water (less than 1/10 of the water cotton needs), labour and zero pesticides, herbicides to grow. 100% Organic Bamboo Lyocell also has a unique feathery soft and silky smooth texture, it is known as the ‘vegan silk’ as it’s purely plant based. Most bamboo bedding available on the market is made with bamboo rayon/viscose or bamboo & cotton blend, whereas ours is 100% Organic Bamboo Lyocell.

Ettitude

How does Ettitude prepare for holiday seasons?
We try to come up different surprise offers or release new products around peak shopping seasons. That said, we don’t offer big discounts often so act quick when there’s one!

Ettitude

What are some of your best-selling collections and products?
Our sheet set is our all-time bestseller. It includes all your bedding essentials – a fitted sheet, a flat sheet and two pillow cases.

Ettitude

Tell us about the Sleepover Club…
Our Sleepover Club is our members program which you can earn points every time you shop, enjoy perks and exclusive discount. You can also refer friends to earn store credits. It’s free to join for all!

Ettitude

In this day and age, how important is social media, marketing and content to the
growth and success of Ettitude?
We use social media heavily to communicate to our target audience. We love getting feedbacks and exchanging conversations with customers on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter. Our customers would share with us images of how they #sleepwithettitude and style the sheets.

Visual content works really well for bedding products. Customers love getting interior inspirations from our styling images and seeing how they can work different colours into their bedrooms. Since we spend one third of our lives in bed, we also promote a healthy lifestyle through social media to remind people to get enough sleep and take care of themselves. We also let customers to involve in product development, we ask for their opinions on colours, patterns and make them feel like part of the whole journey. Traditionally, customers spend hours in shopping mall and department store to compare different bedding brands, fabrics and colours, whereas we offer a straightforward and user-friendly bedding shopping experience for them online, we even send them fabric swatches for free!

We recently asked our customers on social media “what’s your dream bedding?”, and we received lots of one-off suggestions and comments that have given us valuable insights and creative ideas. We involve customers, use their feedbacks and say thank you by creating their dream products for them. It’s truly crowd-sourced product.

With digital marketing, we can also easily speak to specific customer groups with cost and time-efficient methods. Being an e-commerce allows us to reach a wider audience without physical boundaries and distance.

Cheyne Toomey, The Commons

How does Ettitude typically work with interior designers?
We have a Designer Trade Program which interior designers can join to enjoy industry discounts and new product previews. Email us trade@ettitude.com.au to find out more!

Ettitude

What should interior designers learn and understand about bedding before sourcing items for their clients and projects?
Bedding completes the whole look of the room and ties everything together. Bedding can be used to give a splash of color or texture to the room. It’s also important to consider the use of the space, for whom it’s designed for and for what purpose.

Ettitude

What’s next for Ettitude?

We will continue to expand our product offerings by introducing more colors, patterns and innovative fabrics. We want to continue to disrupt the traditional bedding industry by offering a great shopping experience to customers so they can make their decisions online instead of spending extra time and money in a mall for sheets. Keep an eye out for our next pop up too!

Cheyne Toomey, The Commons

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.