Behind the Design: Harper Haus Interiors – Southwest Florida

Jim Freeman Photography

“My goal is to offer my clients newness but also longevity within their home. Modern elements mixed with classic style seems to create the right balance.”

Jim Freeman Photography

“I feel it is my responsibility to educate clients about environmental opportunities and choices we have when sourcing finishes, furniture, and accessories.”

Jim Freeman Photography

What’s your business mantra?

KE: Make your haus a home.

Why did you join Ivy?

KE: I was toying with the idea of starting my own business…it was a scary time. I had a 3 month old baby, an 8 year old, and a husband in medical school – how could I even consider this!? I knew I could design but the logistics scared me. Within days, an Ivy ad popped up and I played around with a trial version. With Ivy, my logistics have resolved, plus, the countless benefits and Ivy Facebook Group are priceless!

What have you learned from the Ivy Designer Network?

KE: I’ve learned that I can ask anything and someone is always there to help! For most of my professional fashion career, I felt the cut-throat corporate lifestyle. With Ivy, I feel like I am surrounded by people that want me to succeed as much as I want them to. It’s been so refreshing!

Jim Freeman Photography

How does Ivy help streamline your day-to-day workflow as an interior designer?

KE: I love the reminders feature. I can rest easy knowing things will continue to move as I multi-task different projects.

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

KE: The Ivy Facebook Group. Whether they know it or not, Ivy Members have been my mentors and motivators. When I questioned quitting my day job to start a dream, there was so much support and success stories. I would not have taken that leap without the Ivy community.

Jim Freeman Photography

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Here at Ivy, we’re more than just an interior design software. Our mission is to provide interior designers with the community, resources and tools needed to manage your business beautifully. Are you searching for a business management tool to help streamline your workflow as an interior designer?

Ivy Podcast Guest: Widell + Boschetti

Ivy Co-Founders Alexandra Schinasi and Lee A. Rotenberg, speak to Ivy Design Firm Widell + Boschetti. Listen to our entire podcast series on iTunes here.

Barette Widell and Christina Boschetti are the co-owners and designers of Widell + Boschetti; a boutique interior design firm in Philadelphia. They’ve been in business for 3 years and going (and growing!) strong, managing an average of 25 projects at any given time, while each raising two young boys. Despite neither of them coming from an interior design background, they’ve quickly learned the secrets to building a successful design business, seeing 1,000% growth in their bottom line year-over-year.

Ivy Design Firm Spotlight: Lisa Furtado Interiors – San Francisco, CA

Lisa – how did you get where you are today?

LF: I grew up and went to college in California. Graduate school brought me to the East Coast (Boston and DC) for several years where I stayed, worked, got married, and had my first child. We moved back to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2007 where I continued to work in biotechnology. On maternity leave with my third child, I took a design class that rekindled a flame that lay idle behind beakers and boardrooms for years. Although I had various science degrees, an established career, and a promising future in the field, there was this creative itch that never let up. In 2012, I quit my job, enrolled in design school, and never looked back. It seemed like an unexpected 180 degree change to most. But to those that know me best, it made perfect sense.

“I feel truly honored that people trust me to help them create a backdrop for their lives.”

Lisa Furtado Interiors is a full-service residential design firm specializing in family-friendly interior design and renovation. How do you move forward with your design process keeping this client avatar in mind?

LF: I believe that beautiful can be practical. So many people think they should wait until their kids are grown up and out of the house to create an attractive, well designed home. Your house is the foundation of your family story. Most people want a space they can live life in, not just stare at from afar. I educate families on which furnishings are best to splurge and which make sense to save on. I encourage people to selectively invest in quality pieces that are durable, stand up to life, and can take the occasional beating.

I consider myself an authority on wear and tear. My house is basically a durability laboratory. I can tell you the importance of a well constructed sofa frame to withstand body slamming and dance parties. I can describe how hardwood performs under roller skates and hover boards. You may be judging my parenting skills at this point but you know who to ask when you can’t get the gum out of your mohair pillows.

Photo by Dean Birinyi

How do you get to know your clients?

LF: There is a lot involved in cracking the code on clients. Of course I have my standard series of questions like, “How do you want this space to make you feel?”, and, “How do you use this space?”, and, “How much have you budgeted for this project?” But, sometimes it’s the subtle observations that are the most revealing. Is the dog hanging out on the love seat? Did your client’s brow bead with sweat when you mentioned the price of a decent sofa? How beat up are their baseboards? These observations are important factors to consider when determining how your clients live and designing a space that will function well, look amazing, and make them feel at home.

“I educate families on which furnishings are best to splurge and which make sense to save on.”

Who are your favorite vendors and people of the trade in the San Francisco/Bay Area? 

LF: A few SF Design Center favorites are Quadrille, Madeline Weinrib, and Walker Zanger. Chairish is an amazing resource I use to source vintage rugs and the occasional piece to give a project a bit of history and soul. And, a shout out to Wallphoria (my wallpaper installer) who I’ve kept busy lately.

Photo by Dean Birinyi

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

LF: At the end of the day, kindness, respect, and humility go a long way. In my former career, I lead teams of physicians, statisticians, and scientists. The key to gaining your team’s respect is understanding just enough to talk the talk, but relying on the experts to show you the best way. The same goes in this industry. I respect the experience and expertise of my vendors and tradespeople. Whether I’m working with a showroom rep or a tiler, I come prepared, but admit what I don’t know. I may have the overall vision, but they are ones that can ultimately help me bring it to life.

How does designing make you feel? What’s your business mantra?

LF: I think most people in this industry would agree that the fun, creative part is only a small part of the gig.  Although running a business can have its challenges, the feeling I get when I’m creating something beautiful and personal for my clients is a high like nothing else. I feel truly honored that people trust me to help them create a backdrop for their lives. With every project I remind myself, “Make it livable, keep it personal, and make sure it’s amazing.”

Photo by Dean Birinyi

What are some common business dilemmas you face and how do you navigate them?

LF: I recently had an epiphany that I don’t have to (and shouldn’t be) doing the things that I dislike to do in my business. That way, I can focus the majority of my efforts on design. I’ve since hired a bookkeeper, an accountant, and a team member that does my renderings, measurements, manages ordering, and reminds my clients to pay their invoices.

“My goal this year is to determine the right number and type of projects to take on in order to be profitable, maintain a healthy work/life balance, and continue what I love: designing bad ass spaces for my clients to live and play.”

Do you regularly attend trade markets and conferences? If so, which ones and what’s your strategy? 

LF: I love High Point Market, but geographically, it’s not as easy to get to as Las Vegas Market. LVMKT is an easy trip for me to make twice a year. I typically take the first day to leisurely browse and be inspired. The second and third day are strategic work days where I try to source as much as I can for specific projects. My strategy in Las Vegas is simple. Work first, drink later. Although those darn showroom bars are so tempting.

Photo by Dean Birinyi

How much time do you allocate to social media and marketing?

LF: Not nearly enough. I’m getting better at putting myself out there but it’s definitely not something that comes naturally to me. I’m working on it!

Why did you join Ivy? 

LF: I was using and struggling with another platform before I joined Ivy. This particular software had it all but it was overly complex and it gave me anxiety every time I opened it. Ivy was like a visual breath of fresh air. It was simple, pretty, and easy to navigate. Sold.

Photo by David Livingston

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

LF: The Ivy Product Clipper. Best. Thing. Ever.

What do you learn from the Ivy Designer Network?

LF: The Ivy Facebook Group has been a wonderful resource for me. It’s a safe place where I can ask business questions without feeling judged or simply find the source of a piece of furniture. Most often, I don’t even have to ask the question myself; I can find the answer by doing a quick search of past posts. This community has made me appreciate that regardless of how seasoned you are as a designer, we all have questions, similar struggles, and are continually learning throughout our careers.

Photo by David Livingston

What are your business goals for 2018?

LF: My business is only a couple years old but I’ve been fortunate to have a continual flow of projects and interest in my services. I recently hired a dedicated team member and established new systems, including adopting Ivy. My youngest started kindergarten in the fall which has given me more time to commit to running my business and less mom guilt, which I’ve always been plagued with. My goal this year is to determine the right number and type of projects to take on in order to be profitable, maintain a healthy work/life balance, and continue what I love: designing bad ass spaces for my clients to live and play.

Here at Ivy, we’re more than just an interior design software. Our mission is to provide interior designers with the community, resources and tools needed to manage your business beautifully. Are you searching for a business management tool to help streamline your workflow as an interior designer?

The best way to tackle High Point Market is to research, prepare, and come with a plan. It’s physically and mentally exhausting to schedule & show up on time for showroom appointments, discover new vendors, while also taking advantage of the hundreds of events taking place at once (and remembering to eat heathy and stay hydrated). That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you prioritize and navigate your Market experience in advance so you can manage HPMKT April 2018 like a pro.

Do your research pre-Market and schedule your appointments now

Visit HighPointMarket.org and familiarize yourself with all of the different categories and programming. Review the full list of exhibitors, schedule your appointments, and make time for taking advantage of the events, panels, and parties. There’s a ton of information listed and the website is super easy to navigate.

Highpointmarket.org

Make time for Ivy-hosted events…we want to meet YOU!

Get Your Brunch Buzz on at HPMKT with Ivy @ ZUO

Sunday, April 15, 10 AM – 11:30 AM | ZUO IHFC D502

This High Point Market April 2018, kick off your Sunday morning with mimosas and good designer company at the ZUO Showroom (IHFC D502). ZUO is notorious for throwing some of the best parties at Market so make sure to start your Sunday morning strong with a vibrant gathering of designers! RSVP here.

HPMKT Panel Discussing Successful Biz Models with Ivy @ Abbyson

Sunday, April 15, 4 PM – 6 PM | Abbyson IHFC C1156

Join Ivy at the Abbyson Showroom for an inspiring panel discussing building a business model that works for YOU. Learn from the talented designer and author, Christopher Kennedy, Ivy Designer Vanessa Helmick of Fiore Home, and Ivy Designer & Nashville star, Lori Paranjape of Mrs. Paranjape Design + Interiors, about the strategies they use to develop profitable business models for their firms. The panel will be moderated by Ivy Designers Christina Samatas & Renee DiSanto, the wonderful women of Park & Oak Design. We’ll kick off the panel discussion at 4 PM with hors d’oeuvres & champagne followed by mingling with the panelists and fellow designers.

*Join us at 3:00 to grab early bird seating and enjoy a special demonstration from Ivy and the Abbyson Trade Program. RSVP here.

Henna Happy Hour with Ivy @ Jaipur Living 

Monday, April 16, 4 PM – 6 PM | Jaipur Living Showroom Showplace 3300

This High Point Market April 2018, close out your Monday, April 16 with a festive henna happy hour at the Jaipur Living Showroom (Showplace 3300) with the opportunity to meet Ivy Co-Founders Alexandra Schinasi and Lee A.  Rotenberg, and Jaipur Living CEO, Asha Chaudhary. Enjoy cocktails and vegetarian hors d’oeuvres over inspiring conversations with designers from across the country. RSVP here.

Morning Mimosas & Rugs with Ivy @ Stark Studio Rugs

Tuesday, April 17, 10 AM – 11:30 AM | Stark Studio Rugs Market Square 114

Kick off your Tuesday morning with Ivy at the Stark Studio Rugs Showroom HPMKT debut. Sr. Vice President, Chad Stark, will be giving an intimate presentation on the launch of their latest collection, distributed at more accessible price points nationwide. Enjoy mimosas and beautiful rugs in great designer company. RSVP here.

Every day of Market, there’s a conflict. We’ve sifted through all of the events and have outlined the most important programming you should mark on you calendar. 

Your Saturday Digest | April 14, 2018

Check Out the Consort Furniture Debut

9 AM – 3PM | Interhall IH 202

Join Consort Founders, Mat Sanders and Brandon Quattrone, for a preview of their new Parisian-inspired furniture collection. RSVP here: scooper@theconsultancypr.com.

Florence Broadhurst: Fearless Design

9 AM – 11 AM | Selamat Designs, IHFC, Commerce, Floor 1

Check out the latest Florence Broadhurst x Selamat Designs furniture collection.

Editor at Large’s Guide to High Point Market

10 AM – 11 AM | The Point

Join Editor at Large’s president Julia Noran Johnston and members of her editorial team as they review their Designer’s Guide to High Point Market.

DESIGN VIEWPOINTS SERIES – Who Is Holding Back Your Fees – You or Your Client?

12 PM – 1 PM | High Point . Theatre

Tobi Fairley, ASID, couples her interior design degree, an MBA, and a life coaching certification for her innovative approach to running a design business. Learn Tobi’s method of blending the value of your work with your own self-worth to increase your bottom line. Complimentary boxed lunch provided. 0.1 IDCEC-Approved CEU. Presented by the High Point Market Authority and ASID.

What’s Your Time Worth?

1 PM – 2 PM | Alden Parkes, 200 N. Hamilton St., Floor 1

Designer Billy Ceglia shares insights and strategies for effective time management for design pros to maximize profits on every job. Learn how to charge correctly for your time and save thousands of dollars by using your time smarter. There will be a Q&A at the end with Billy. Refreshments will be served. Co-sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU)

Business of Design Roundtable with Kimberley Seldon

2 PM – 3 PM | The Point

Join Business of Design founder and working designer, Kimberley Seldon, as she moderates a roundtable discussion on the ins and outs of running an interior design firm. This group coaching session will offer sound business advice, solutions for pressing business challenges, and suggestions for achieving desired growth.

Outdoor Living with Barclay Butera and Hearst Design Group

5 PM – 7 PM | Castelle, IHFC, Main, Floor 1

Celebrate Barclay’s New Outdoor Collection for Castelle – Palm Springs with an educational and social event on Saturday, April 14th. Beginning at 5pm with a Meet and Greet with Barclay and Karen Marx, spokesperson, Hearst Design Group, followed by a panel Q & A Discussion on Outdoor Living, Entertaining and Design. A Mix and Mingle caps the event with Cocktails and Canapes, swinging tunes, photo opps and more!

Opening Night Launch Party Introducing Corey Damen Jenkins for Hudson Valley Lighting

5 PM – 8 PM | Hudson Valley Lighting, Historic Marque Square, M90

Attend the introduction of Hudson Valley Lighting’s new licensed collection with Corey Damen Jenkins. Honored guests will have a chance to meet Corey and the Hudson Valley Lighting team while taking a closer look at their fabulous lighting creations. Co-Sponsored by Traditional Home and Hudson Valley Lighting.

French Heritage Hosts the Gail Doby Coaching & Consulting 10 Year Anniversary Celebration

6 PM – 8 PM | French Heritage, Inc.

Join Gail Doby, Erin Weir and their colleagues to celebrate their Ten Year Anniversary serving the interior design community. Enjoy a special French Heritage “Signature Cocktail” by Chef Blake Elsinghorst and gourmet appetizers. Upon arrival don’t forget to get entered in our 2 drawings for a free 1-hour business coaching session with Gail Doby AND a drawing for an exquisite piece of French Heritage furniture.  Call for free shuttle: (336) 491-6754 or (336) 885-2868.

Century Furniture Grand Opening Showroom Market Party

6 PM – 8 PM | Century Furniture, 200 Steele, Floor 2

Join Century Furniture in celebrating the grand opening of their new showroom at 200 Steele. An evening of delicious food, drinks, and music.

Your Sunday Digest | April 15, 2018

Morning Glitz: A Deco Inspired Breakfast

9 AM – 10 AM | Burton James, Inc., 310 N. Hamilton St., Floor 1

Start your market day right with Designers Today’s Editor in Chief Jane Dagmi and the incomparable Michelle Workman as they hold court over coffee and a European breakfast while exploring the re-emergence of Art Deco themes in contemporary interior design. From its trademark curves to today’s trending gold accents, the glamour and allure of Deco has never whispered with such strength!

Get Your Brunch Buzz on at HPMKT with Ivy @ ZUO

10 AM – 11:30 AM | ZUO IHFC D502

Kick off your Sunday morning with mimosas and good designer company at the ZUO Showroom (IHFC D502). ZUO is notorious for throwing some of the best parties at Market so make sure to start your Sunday morning strong with a vibrant gathering of designers! RSVP here.

DESIGN VIEWPOINTS SERIES – How to Manage Clients and Cultivate New Business

12 PM – 1 PM | High Point Theatre (located in the Transportation Terminal)

In the constant pressure of day-to-day client management, firm leaders must balance the cultivation of new business with the effective management of current projects. In this panel discussion, Jennifer Quail, editor-in-chief, i+D magazine, will invite a panel of design leaders including John Cialone, ASID, NCIDQ, Courtney McLeod, and Robert Passal to share their strategies to maintain existing clients and gain new ones. Complimentary boxed lunch provided. 0.1 IDCEC-Approved CEU. Presented by the High Point Market Authority and ASID.

Design Transformation: Magic at the Table

1 PM – 2 PM | Alden Parkes, 200 N. Hamilton St., Floor 1

Independent designers, Natalie Reddell and Danielle Rollins, collaborate to reveal how tablescapes can transform any room from drab to fab. Their talk and demo will provide tips and techniques to harness your creativity in a new way. There will be a Q&A at the end with Natalie and Danielle. Refreshments will be served. Co-sponsored by IMC-DesignOnHPMkt and Alden Parkes. (0.1 CEU).

Jumpstart your Design Career: Learning from Young Leaders in Design Educational

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Universal Furniture International, Inc.

Join New England Home magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Kyle Hoepner as he discusses how to put your design career on the fast track with the with the magazine’s “5 Under 40” award winners. Panelists: i. Ellisha Alexina, Ellisha Alexina Studio (textile design), Easthampton, MA ii. Kristina Crestin, Kristina Crestin Design (interior design), Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA iii. Maggie Mink, Marcus Gleysteen Architects (architecture), Boston, MA iv. Jill Goldberg, Hudson and Hudson Interior Designs (interior design and retail), Boston, MA v. Josh Linder, Evolve Residential (interior design and retail), Boston, MA RSVP here.

To Showhouse or Not To Showhouse: Pros, Cons, Tips and What to Expect.
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Zoe Bios Creative

Participating in a designer showhouse can be an excellent opportunity to showcase your talent and products, as well as to gain media exposure, new client leads and sales. It can also demand a great deal of time and money. Tricks of the trade? Interior designers and showhouse pros Michael Berman, Michel Smith Boyd, Susan Jamieson and Justin Shaulis will answer these questions and many more. Join this lively conversation as they share the pros and cons, along with tips for creating design work to get you noticed. Moderated by ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME magazine’s VP of Advertising & Brand Partnerships and veteran showhouse producer, Lori Sheldon. Followed by an open floor Q&A. Refreshments served. RSVP to lisa@lisamcmahon.com.

“How to Connect with the Media and Get your Own Press” with Amy Flurry and Laura Thurman

2 PM – 3 PM | Mill Village Collective, Union Square, Floor 1

A candid conversation with Amy Flurry, author of the new Recipe for Press: Designer Edition and Laura Thurman, founder of Thurman Designs in Nashville, on the possibilities and perils of DIY PR. When designers take ownership of communicating their stories, they unlock the potential to create more than buzz. Business partnerships and collaborations are but a few of the opportunities that can come of your efforts. Amy Flurry shares the essential editorial etiquette you need to win your projects, products and your positive notice in today’s press. Laura T. shares how she quickly scored regional and national coverage, two guest spots on popular podcast and a collaboration with a major manufacturer. Followed by a Q&A and book signing.

Tea & Trends with Barclay Butera and Home Accents Today
2 PM – 3:30 PM | Nourison Industries, IHFC, Commerce, Floor 1

2:00-2:30 Meet & Greet Interior Designer Barclay Butera and Home Accents Today Editor in Chief Susan Dickenson and Senior Fashion Editor Jane Dagmi

2:30-3:00 Panel Discussion the latest trends in color, design, carpets, indoor and outdoor offerings

3:00-3:30 See all-new rug collections Newport, Brentwood, and Lido that coordinate with his lifestyle furnishings with Lexington Home Brands and outdoor living by Castelle. Mix and Mingle~ Tea and Sweets~ Afternoon Treats!

Dynamic Women in Design – Tips and Tricks from Multi-Tasking Mavens

2 PM – 3 PM | The Point

Amidst all the roles a business woman will play in today’s fast-paced world, how does one effectively and efficiently juggle all the balls in the air while maintaining a professional demeanor and a meaningful personal life? Join Stacy Kunstel, Mary MacDonald and Michelle Nussbaumer in this roundtable discussion focusing on daily balance, useful tools and the multi-tasking tips and tricks these mavens has mastered over the years.

Creating a Business Model that Works for You

3 PM – 4 PM | Abbyson Living, IHFC, 11th Floor Commerce Wing C1156

Join Ivy at the Abbyson Showroom for an inspiring panel discussing building a business model that works for YOU. Learn from the talented designer and author, Christopher Kennedy, Ivy Designer Vanessa Helmick of Fiore Home, and Ivy Designer & Nashville star, Lori Paranjape of Mrs. Paranjape Design + Interiors, about the strategies they use to develop profitable business models for their firms. The panel will be moderated by Ivy Designers Christina Samatas & Renee DiSanto, the wonderful women of Park & Oak Design. We’ll kick off the panel discussion at 4 PM with hors d’oeuvres & champagne followed by mingling with the panelists and fellow designers.

*Join us at 3:00 to grab early bird seating and enjoy a special demonstration from Ivy and the Abbyson Trade Program. RSVP here.

Your Monday Digest | April 16, 2018

Social Media Do’s and Don’ts with Mat Sanders and Brandon Quattrone

10 AM – 11 AM | The Point

Join Mat Sanders and Brandon Quattrone, the digital-savvy co-founders of Consort Design, for a roundtable discussion on social media best practices. Learn from their extensive experience and get your pressing questions answered too.

Coast to Coast – Expanding your Design Firm with a Brick & Mortar

11 AM – 12 PM | Suites at Market Square Seminar Room (SAMS T-1014)

Leading designers across the country are building out their businesses with brick and mortar. Join Barclay Butera, Christopher Kennedy, Bobbi Jo Engelby, Susan Jamieson, and Lori Paranjape as they discuss the ins and outs of opening retail spaces which include: combining online and in-store marketing strategies; creating a unique customer experience; hidden costs; design collectives; finding the right location and so much more. (0.1 CEU) Co-Sponsored by ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME magazine, Designers Today and IMC-DesignOnHPMkt. RSVP here.

DESIGN VIEWPOINTS SERIES – Finding a Healthy Balance in Your Daily Demands

12 PM – 1 PM | High Point Theatre (located in the Transportation Terminal)

Hear from design leaders who are balancing their professional careers with personal responsibilities and a desire to live a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. The panelists will engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the challenges and rewards of finding synergy among life’s daily demands. Improve your balance and understand what role your colleagues and family play in the process. This all-star panel, moderated by Tori Mellott of Traditional Home, will include Alexa Hampton, Erika Ward and Michelle Workman, all working parents currently managing their own design firms. Complimentary boxed lunch provided. 0.1 IDCEC-Approved CEU. Presented by the High Point Market Authority and ASID.

Rugs 101 with Jaipur Rugs CEO Yogesh Chaudhary and Jaipur Living Category Associate Mallory Appleton

2 PM – 3 PM | Jaipur Living, Showplace, Floor 3

What makes a good rug? CEO Yogesh Chaudhary of Jaipur Rugs, which elevates the work of 40,000 artisans and weavers across India, will speak to the art of a hand made rug. Category Associate Mallory Appleton will share information on our machine made and naturals collections.

Design Community Town Hall Meeting

3 PM – 4 PM | High Point Theatre (located in the Transportation Terminal)

This Design Community Town Hall Meeting will be moderated by Joseph Haecker, on-air personality for Design Talk LIVE, the first call in talk show on Facebook. It will be an ongoing conversation with the design community about the design industry. #SharingIsCaring

Henna Happy Hour with Ivy @ Jaipur Living 

4 PM – 6 PM | Jaipur Living Showroom Showplace 3300

Before the “Third Night”, close out your Monday, April 16 with a festive henna happy hour at the Jaipur Living Showroom (Showplace 3300) with the opportunity to meet Ivy Co-Founders Alexandra Schinasi and Lee A.  Rotenberg, and Jaipur Living CEO, Asha Chaudhary. Enjoy cocktails and vegetarian hors d’oeuvres over inspiring conversations with designers from across the country. RSVP here.

Universal Furniture Semi-Annual Soiree

6 PM – 9 PM | Universal Furniture International, Inc.

Join Universal Furniture for its semi-annual celebration of Market. Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and live music. RSVP here.

Attend the “Third Night: A Progressive Gala”

4 PM – 7 PM | Hamilton Wrenn Design District, located on Hamilton St. and Wrenn St. in between Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Dr. and E. Ray Ave. 

This Spring Market, for the first time, Market Guests are invited to embrace discovery and explore showrooms within a set section of the Market map in a progressive- dinner-style format. The evening will offer live street entertainment and musicians throughout the district with a wide variety of special menus, themed parties and influencer interactions within the participating showrooms. Check out the participating exhibitors here.

Your Tuesday Digest | April 17, 2018

Morning Mimosas & Rugs with Ivy @ Stark Studio Rugs

10 AM – 11:30 AM | Stark Studio Rugs Market Square 114

Kick off your Tuesday morning with Ivy at the Stark Studio Rugs Showroom HPMKT debut. Sr. Vice President, Chad Stark, will be giving an intimate presentation on the launch of their latest collection, distributed at more accessible price points nationwide. Enjoy mimosas and beautiful rugs in great designer company. RSVP here.

Leading the Way: Fair Trade and Social Accountability in the Design Industry

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Suites at Market Square Seminar Room (SAMS T-1014)

A practical and inspirational presentation, where you will learn the 10 principles of fair trade and what choices you can make to create a socially accountable design industry. Presentation led by Ana Cunningham, Vice President of Toronto-based Creative Matters Inc. and Reto Aschwandan Director of Label Step on the demand for fair trade in the textile design industry. With discussion and Q&A with global textile firms leading the way in social accountability. Additional panelists will be Vimal Kumar, Vice President of Obeetee, Inc.; Susan Inglis, Executive Director of Sustainable Furnishings Council and design guest TBA. (0.1 CEU) RSVP here.

ZUO Hosts a VIP Reception & Meet + Greet with Designers Today new Editor in Chief – Jane Dagmi

4 PM – 6 PM | ZUO, IHFC, Design Center, Floor 5

Join a VIP Reception & Meet + Greet with Designers Today new Editor in Chief – Jane Dagmi ! ZUO invites you to a special VIP Reception & Meet + Greet with Designers Today new Editor in Chief – Jane Dagmi! RSVP here.

Your Wednesday Digest | April 18, 2018

Color Marketing Group® ChromaZone® Color Forecasting Workshop Hosted by Universal Furniture

8 AM – 5 PM | Universal Furniture International, Inc.

At the very heart of all CMG events is the Color Forecasting process. Each ChromaZone® Workshop is a collaboration of minds; a joint effort to understand and interpret what is happening in the world around us and how this will influence color. Participants identify 16 colors, along with the influences and inspirations that define them, that they believe will trend in 2020. You do NOT need to be a member of CMG to participate – ChromaZone® events are open to current, former, and Non-CMG members. This is an all-day event; pre-registration is required. Cost: $150 CMG Members, $225 Nonmembers, $75 Students. Register here.

Get the The Point to Learn, Grow, and Connect

Located on Commerce Ave. one block over from the main Transportation Terminal in between Wrenn St. and S. Main St. 

The High Point Market Authority (HPMA) is launching “The Point”, a dedicated space with robust programming to serve Market attendees including roundtable discussions moderated by popular influencers on relevant industry topics, an interactive demonstration area, celebrity meet & greets, a social media connection area, and an afternoon social hour with various partner groups. The space will also host a Parson’s Table pop-up each day for lunch, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the popular Market staple, and offer an organic juice bar and gourmet coffee bar each morning. Additionally, a team of Market Advisors will be on-site to answer any Market-related questions, assist guests with their Market planning and offer in-depth, one-on-one consultations for new buyers who are unfamiliar with Market. Tom Conley, president and CEO of the High Point Market Authority, shared, “We are here to help this industry learn and connect so business can grow and prosper, thus we are incredibly excited to offer these services and programs at The Point to further and help achieve these goals.”

Highpointmarket.org

Read the Designer’s Guide by Editor at Large
Review the Spring 2018 Designer’s Guide to High Point Market from Editor at Large. They truly have their finger on the pulse of the industry and always know the events, parties, and showrooms to look out for.

Download the MyMarket App, it will be your best friend!

This is a must. The MyMarket App allows you to easily map out your entire Market plan and search exhibitors by category, price point, style, and building. Browse educational and social events to find your favorites. Add your showrooms and events to your personal MyMarket plan (all synced with your website plan). There’s an easy blue dot navigation from building to building and for every showroom within IHFC, 220 Elm, and all Centers of High Point. It’s also now easy to share exhibitors and events with people you’re visiting with and schedule vendor appointments to keep your organized. Download the MyMarket High Point Market here.

Here at Ivy, we’re more than just an interior design software. Our mission is to provide interior designers with the community, resources and tools needed to manage your business beautifully. Are you searching for a business management tool to help streamline your workflow as an interior designer?

With Ivy and Quickbooks Online (QBO), you can have it all! This integration allows you to streamline your design firm’s business management needs while keeping your books and reporting clean and organized.

Built for Designers, by Designers
Ivy is built specifically for the nuanced workflow of interior designers, empowering you to manage all the moving parts of your projects while communicating with clients effectively and professionally. Our easy integration with QBO will sync all accounting information automatically and in real time, allowing for easy reporting, bank, and credit card reconciliations.

What do you need to connect Ivy to Quickbooks Online?
All you need to sync Ivy to Quickbooks Online is a QBO Plus account, and a one-time chart-of-accounts mapping.

Why Quickbooks Online?
Your accountant will LOVE this integration! Quickbooks Online is the premiere accounting solution for businesses of all sizes. The vast majority of accountants and bookkeepers are trained and familiar with Quickbooks Online. No need to learn a new accounting software system!

Ivy’s Integration with Quickbooks Online is easy!

Step 1: Connect Ivy to Quickbooks Online:

Step 2: Map your QBO chart of accounts in Ivy

Step 3: Watch the integration in action!

Why Accountants Love Ivy

“Ivy’s integration with Quickbooks Online allows designers to focus on what they do best without having to learn an accounting software. My clients and I love Ivy’s integration because it allows each of us to each focus on our specialities. When we bring on a new designer we tell them they don’t ever have to go into Quickbooks again- they can manage their entire day-to-day workflow by handling all client billing, purchasing, and vendor payments directly in Ivy. The integration allows me to access the information designers input and prepare their taxes which as a result turns a very stressful time for designers into a walk in the park. This integration streamlines everyone’s workflow and has made everyone’s lives so much simpler!”

– Marissa McKinney, Accountant at Logistis for Designers

Tune into the Ivy Webinar hosted by Marissa McKinney, to learn about bookkeeping best practices, how to handle sales tax, and how to make the most of the Ivy x QuickBooks Online integration.

“I have been helping designers integrate Ivy with Quickbooks Online for more than eight months and have found the integration to work excellently. Ivy designers get the best of both worlds with Ivy’s ease of use and the benefits of a full-fledged bookkeeping application, all at once. The key to the seamless integration is in the initial setup and mapping happening at the beginning of using Ivy. This integration gives my clients peace of mind at tax time because they know that everything they need to file is already in QBO!”

– Allison Moran, Bookkeeper and Business Coach at Business Moxie

Ivy has partnered with QuickBooks Online to offer Ivy Members based in the United States with special QuickBooks Online pricing and benefits.

U.S. QuickBooks Online Program

Pricing & Services

• 30% lifetime discount off current MSRP for new QBO subscribers for QuickBooks Online Plus
• 5 concurrent users and 2 bookkeeper’s or accountant users
• Free set up and navigational training
• Free support and data backup
• Free QuickBooks Desktop migration to QuickBooks Online (takes about 30 minutes )

Want help getting set up? Connect with your Intuit QuickBooks account manager to help you get started today!

Terms, conditions, pricing, special features, and service and support options subject to change without notice.

In the spirit of Spring, the Ivy Team gathered local interior designers to the Holland & Sherry Showroom in NYC for a happy hour and inspiring panel to discuss strategies that bloom your business.

We started the evening mingling over drinks and hors d’oeuvres by Dean & Deluca. Following Holland & Sherry’s presentation on their latest Metropolis Collection, we kicked-off an engaging panel moderated by Ivy Co-Founder, Lee Rotenberg. Designers learned from NYC Ivy Interior Designer Ambassador, Jessica Lynn Williams, founder and principal designer of Hendley & Co, Emily Butler, founder and principal designer of Emily C. Butler, Whitney McGowan, owner of Hydra Projects (specializing in construction management & owner representation), and Malene B, a Brooklyn-based rug designer & artist about the secrets to growing your brand and bringing your business to the next level.

Following the panel, Ivy Co-Founder, Alex Schinasi, demonstrated how designers use Ivy to build proposals, invoice clients, PO vendors, track & bill for your time, and more.

A special thanks to Holland & Sherry for hosting and to everyone who came out to join us! See photos below.

Photography by Tory Williams. Florals by Sprout Home.

Ivy Co-Founders Lee A. Rotenberg & Alexandra Schinasi (left to right). Photo by Tory Williams.

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Photo by Tory Williams

Here at Ivy, we’re more than just an interior design software. Our mission is to provide interior designers with the community, resources and tools needed to manage your business beautifully. Are you searching for a business management tool to help streamline your workflow as an interior designer?

Ivy Podcast Guest: Susan Wintersteen of Savvy Interiors

In Ivy.co’s first podcast, Ivy Co-Founders Alexandra Schinasi and Lee A. Rotenberg speak to Ivy Interior Designer Susan Wintersteen of Savvy Interiors. Listen to our entire podcast series on iTunes here.

Susan, a mother of 5 daughters, founded Savvy Interiors in 2002 out of a passion for design and desire to find a creative outlet for her energies. In 2007, her husband John joined the Savvy Interiors team and they opened a San Diego showroom in 2015. As a designer/General Contractor, she focuses on remodels and “fixing Ugly”. As their team grows to 3 senior designers and 3 junior designers, they continue to focus on their design business as well as nationally expanding their nonprofit Savvy Giving by Design.

In this podcast you’ll learn from Susan about how she decides to call it quits with a client, how she’s structured her business model, tips on working with contractors, and more!

Dwell on Design is one of the industry’s leading events for design professionals and enthusiasts from around the world. Hosted at the Los Angeles Convention Center April 5-7, the conference features the best in modern furnishings, lighting, accessories, kitchen and bath, home technology, outdoor, and design materials.

This event provides amazing opportunities for learning and inspiration from some of the most creative, innovative, and successful professionals in the industry. We’ve put together a guide of the must-attend events that are focused towards the trade. View the complete programming guide here.

Team Ivy will be located at the Design Lounge (Booth #524), so make sure to stop by to say hello! We will be available to walk you through the Ivy software on-site or can schedule a demo for you after the event.  

Feature Image courtesy of Dwell on Design

MUST Attend

Thursday, April 5, 2018

12:15 PM: Featured Speaker Jonathan Adler 

1:00PM: Carefully Designed Lighting Plans to Achieve Architectural Effects

Multiple considerations must be considered in a home’s lighting plan including security, function, controls, and type to name just a few. Combining these considerations with new technologies and sophisticated products, a thoughtful design using natural and artificial light can produce dramatic architectural effects.

2:15 PM: How to Listen Deeply to Our Clients, to Design Buildings and Spaces that Speak to Their Truths 

Presented By: Milford Cushman, Founder and President at Cushman Design Group, Ethan Waldman, Founder at The Tiny House, Rachel Moore, Executive Director at Helen Day Art Center, Harlan Mack, Sculpture Studio Tech at Vermont Studio Center, Shelly Severinghaus, Senior Consultant at Long Trail Sustainability

This session will pose and explore the question “how should clients be listened to so that designers can then create buildings and spaces that speak to their clients’ truths” irrespective of financial means and age, honoring that home is common ground for all. Six diverse and personal case studies serve as the lens through which to examine the commonality of requests for design solutions from millennial to baby boomer clients.

3:30PM: Minted Presents: Art Styling 101

4:45 PM: Benjamin Moore Color Trends

Presented By: Kali Sipes-Pleasant of Architectural & Design Representative at Benjamin Moore & Co.

Learn about the concepts and inspiration behind Color Trends 2018 and our Color of the Year.

7PM: Opening Night Reception – Rooftop Party at Row DTLA

A rooftop party on opening night with cocktails and light bites at Row DTLA.

Friday, April 6th, 2018

12:15 PM: Featured Speaker Paula Wallace 

Built With Soul: Saving Communities With Art, Design, and Historic Preservation Savannah, Georgia, was once described as “a beautiful woman with a dirty face.” Over the last 40 years, one university has utterly transformed the city with art, design, and a dedicated approach to historic preservation. The founder and president of SCAD, Paula Wallace, discusses the history of SCAD and its cultural, architectural, and economic impact on its hometown communities in the U.S., Europe, and Asia–and how SCAD applies ancient design virtues to a thriving contemporary purpose.

1:00 PM: 10 Things to Do Weekly to Increase Your Social Following 

Presented By: Nathan Reynolds, CAPS, Owner and Principal Designer at Insperiors, LLC

Consistency is essential in maintaining and building a strong social media presence, so your efforts should not be stop and go. Having your social postings scheduled in addition to having a set procedure for monitoring your social efforts, will help ensure consistency and encourage engagement from followers while attracting new ones. In order to help you hone in on things to do regularly to build your social following, Nathan Reynolds has put together a list of 10 weekly action items to grow your following and change followers into new customers.

2:45 PM: Featured Speaker Janet Echelman

Presented By: Janet Echelman of Studio Echelman, Marc Palley of Artist at Marc Palley, Kevin Conway, AIA, of Associate Director, Design at Skidmore Owings & Merrill LLP,

Remaking the Public Realm Through Art The last thirty years has witnessed a great blossoming of public art in cities throughout the U.S. with the L.A. region being one of the most important centers for its production. This panel will look at a number of projects that extend our notions of public space and creative thinking. They’ll examine several recently completed local projects as well as some exemplary public artworks farther afield all working to provide provocative, seductive, surprising and thoughtful experience for public audiences.

4:00PM: Innovation: Embrace It or Die!

Presented By: Marc Bovet of CEO and Founder at BONE Structure

7PM: VIP Dinner

Did you miss the Barrington Residence on the Fall Home Tours? Now is your chance to dine right inside this amazing home. Enjoy cocktails and dinner with the Dwell on Design creators and industry tastemakers, sponsored by Eric Rosen Architects.

Other Dwell on Design Happenings

Los Angeles Home Tours

April 7-8, join the tours to see a selection of contemporary homes that reflect the rich diversity of innovative, livable architecture and design found in the greater Los Angeles area. Get your tickets for a tour here.

Photo courtesy of Dwell on Design

L.A. Design Trail

The Design Milk and Modenus are introducing the L.A. Design Trail, sponsored by Dwell on Design, which will link all of the showrooms, shops, and studios from Melrose to La Cienega Boulevard and across East L.A. and Downtown L.A. You’re invited to nominate your favorites for a chance to be featured on the trail and receive credit on the L.A. Design Trail Map. Veronika Miller, Modenus Media CEO shares, “We are thrilled to be working with our long-time partner Design Milk on launching the exciting Design Trail concept in collaboration with Dwell on Design for the inaugural LA Design Trail. It is high time that LA sees more exposure as a true design destination on a national and even international level, and we believe that the design trail will help us highlight the immense design talent base in and around Los Angeles.”

Here at Ivy, we’re more than just an interior design software. Our mission is to provide interior designers with the community, resources and tools needed to manage your business beautifully. Are you searching for a business management tool to help streamline your workflow as an interior designer?

Ivy Design Firm Spotlight: Lindye Galloway Interiors – Orange County, CA

Lindye – how did you get where you are today?

Long story short, I had been in creative design industries previously and found my niche when I landed in interiors. I started my firm 3.5 years ago, and through a lot of hustle, late nights, and strategic moves, we’ve landed in a fun season designing high-end custom homes in the Newport Beach area. Last year, things really took off and I knew I needed more support and creative people that could help continue to build and design beautiful homes. So, we now have a team of 7 ladies that are so talented!

Lindye Galloway Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in complete remodels and new builds. How would you describe your firm’s aesthetic?

I love being able to bring a fresh and modern look to each space while utilizing comfort and practicality. At the end of the day, these are our clients’ homes, so they need to be pretty and livable spaces. I find inspiration for each project from the clients’ style and personalities as well as the character of the space itself.

Photo by Chad Mellon

Who are your favorite vendors and tradespeople to work with in Orange County, CA?

We are fortunate to be surrounded by the best of the best and there are so many professionals we love working with. It’s impossible to choose our favorites! We love using Noir for some great furniture pieces.

How does designing make you feel? What’s your business mantra?

I feel so blessed to be able to do what I do. Designing our clients’ homes is a privilege I do not take lightly. I’ve always been a creative person, but interior design truly makes me become alive. We believe in creating unique spaces that balance form and function for people to stylishly exist in. We believe in designing a space that is a reflection of our clients’ individual style and personality.

Photo by Chad Mellon

Tell us about your involvement with HGTV…

We’ve had the pleasure of partnering with HGTV over the past several years and they’ve featured us online and in print. We’ve shared tips, advice, and home tours in various articles they’ve published!

Your portfolio is stunning, shot by Chad Mellon. Why do you think it’s so important to build a collaborative relationship with your photographer?

Thank you so much! Chad is so talented and I love working with him on a regular basis. I do firmly believe in building a collaborative relationship with your photographer! Because we’ve done just that, Chad now has a great idea of what I’m looking for each time he photographs a project, and I completely trust him. I also love that my portfolio and branding looks consistent because we work together on a regular basis.

Photo by Chad Mellon

How much time do you allocate towards content & social media marketing?

With social media being as huge as it is today, it’s so important to be present on social media so that you can showcase your work and clients can get a feel for you and your brand, along with an idea of what it’s like to work with you. Last year, I was fortunate to have a lot of new projects. However, I wasn’t able to give my social media platforms the attention that they needed, so, I brought someone on to help me with my marketing and social media. I love it because she is able to focus on growing that part of my business while I can stay focused on the design aspect. We collaborate together daily to create great content.

Do you attend design conferences and trade shows? If so, which markets and what’s your market strategy?

There are so many good ones out there, but most recently, my team and I attended the Las Vegas Market and had a blast. We also love High Point Market. Our strategy is typically as follows: day 1 we search for new furniture, day 2 we shop accessories and textiles, and we devote day 3 to shopping for projects we’re currently working on.

Photo by Chad Mellon

What are some common business dilemmas you face and how do you navigate them?

One of our biggest dilemmas over the last year has been streamlining our systems. Our projects have become very large in scale and our team is constantly growing. So this last year, we have focused on creating solid systems for the whole team that allow us to be efficient and create more space for us to focus on what we love, designing!

Why did you join Ivy?

We joined Ivy to help us create stronger systems. We were using a few other programs to accomplish our processes with clients, from invoicing to tear sheets, and tracking our clients’ furnishings. We saw that Ivy had a lot of potential for us to do all of these things in one place…so, we were SOLD!

Photo by Chad Mellon

How does Ivy help streamline your day-to-day workflow as an interior designer? What’s an Ivy feature you can’t live without?

Ivy allows us to handle all points of our projects in one space where the whole team can accomplish tasks together! It has changed our workflow from using multiple platforms and applications to having it all housed in one space to easily work on our projects, no matter what phase they are in. We can’t live without the Ivy Product Clipper! It’s our favorite feature and it’s so efficient when we’re sourcing around online!

What have you learned from the Ivy Designer Network?

The Ivy Designer Network has been a huge community for us. It has provided a source to understand the inner workings of the program and figure out how we could best utilize it for our firm. We are able to ask questions and see what other people were facing and how they solve their issues with Ivy. It’s been a great network of Designers sharing feedback on how to grow our businesses, together, which is always encouraging!

Photo by Chad Mellon

How has Ivy transformed your business?

Ivy has brought a level of professionalism to our firm that we were longing for. We are now able to handle many aspects of our projects in one place that keeps us on point. It’s also created a space for our whole team to work on multiple facets of our projects together. And most importantly, it’s freed us up to focus more on creating beautiful projects!

Photo by Chad Mellon

Photography by Chad Mellon

Here at Ivy, we’re more than just an interior design software. Our mission is to provide interior designers with the community, resources and tools needed to manage your business beautifully. Are you searching for a business management tool to help streamline your workflow as an interior designer?

Capturing a space for those critical & accurate measurements when you kick-off a client project can seem daunting. A whole home re-model can feel like a lot of pressure and close to impossible, especially as a small business owner. Enter Occipital, the leading spatial computing company, focused on taking technology at the frontier of “possible” and making it “just work” on everyday mobile devices, headquartered in Boulder, CO. Amongst interior designers, they are most popular for Canvas, a fast, easy way to create a design-ready, editable 3D model of a home — all from an iPad. Scanning takes only a couple minutes per room, and you get to “skip ahead to the fun part” (design!) by bringing your 3D model into tools like SketchUp, AutoCAD, and more. Occipital also makes Structure Sensor, TapMeasure, PX-80, Bridge, and several other spatial computing products.

If all of this fancy shmancy tech lingo sounds scary to you, don’t worry! This team is 100% dedicated to putting you, the designer, first, with very high-touch onboarding and support to make Canvas and other Occipital tools your best friends for all things measuring. Canvas Product Manager, Alex Schiff, shares with us how Canvas works exactly and what’s needed to make the most of it, the spatial & measurement accuracy a designer can expect when using Occipital tools, and how their technology can save you lots of time on measuring so you can focus on what you love, design.

In collaboration with Occipital, Ivy Designer Rebecca Zajac of Design by Numbers will be hosting an Ivy Webinar to discuss “Creating 3D Visualizations for your Design Clients” on Wednesday, March 28 at 12:30 PM ET / 9:30 AM PT. Make sure to RSVP with the registration button below!

For those who don’t know you by “Occipital”, what do you do exactly and what are you well-known for?

Alex Schiff: At Occipital, we’ve always been laser-focused on one thing: computer vision technology. Specifically, how to take what’s on the frontier of possible in computer vision and make it “just work” on everyday devices for everyday people. We were one of the first (if not the first) to market in mobile barcode scanning, (RedLaser), panorama capture (360 Panorama), mobile 3D sensing (Structure Sensor), and more.

In the design industry, most people know about us because of Canvas — the fastest, easiest way to create a scale-accurate and design-ready 3D model of a home. We help you “skip ahead” to the fun part on every single one of your projects.

Photo courtesy of Occipital

Rather than spending hours measuring a home and then recreating all the details in CAD, you jump right to the built-out 3D model and start design.

Canvas is one of the more popular tools in the design community. For those new to the tool, can you explain how Canvas works?

AS: From a user perspective, it’s kind of like “painting” the scene with your iPad. You point the iPad and Structure Sensor at the scene, hit start, and you’ll start to see a white overlay appear over what the camera sees on your screen. It looks like this:

Photo courtesy of Occipital

You simply sweep the iPad up and down like you’re painting a fence, move in a loop around the space, and hit “Done” once you’re back at your starting point. You upload your scan to our Scan To CAD service, and within 48 hours you get back this:

Photo courtesy of Occipital

Under the hood, it’s a lot more complicated — Canvas is capturing thousands of measurements every second and combining them into a single, scale-accurate 3D model. All in real-time as you’re moving around. But to you, the end-user, we try to make it as magical and simple as possible. It typically takes anywhere from 30 seconds to 3 minutes to capture a room.

“We help you ‘skip ahead’ to the fun part on every single one of your projects.”

This scanning tutorial video shows what scanning looks like in more detail. We were also featured on a real-world interior design project in Ask This Old House, so that episode gives a pretty good visual overview of what the process looks like from beginning to end. 

After they’re done scanning, what does the designer get?

AS: As soon as you hit “Done”, you’ll see the 3D reconstruction, which looks like this:

Photo courtesy of Occipital

This is basically how Canvas has recreated your space, and you can use it immediately (and for free) to get measurements, navigate to different views (like a top-down view), or share via email.

3D meshes like this are usually pretty foreign-looking to the design community and don’t work well with industry-standard tools like AutoCAD and SketchUp, which is a big reason we built Scan To CAD.

Can you tell us more about Scan To CAD? Is that required?  

AS: Scan To CAD is what really makes things “just work” for designers, particularly if they’re using programs like AutoCAD or SketchUp. It’s a turnkey, semi-automated service we offer to convert your 3D models captured with Canvas (what you see above) into editable, design-ready, and professional-grade CAD files. This is a typical before/after:

Photo courtesy of Occipital

You select the scans you want to convert, pay $29/scan (one scan roughly maps to one residential sized room), and two days later you get an email with those scans converted into .skp, .dae, or .dwg format. You can also merge multiple scans from across an entire property for an additional $5/scan, which might give you something like this:

Photo courtesy of Occipital

It’s definitely not required, but most designers choose to use it because it saves so much more time.

Pretty much every designer has seen some flavor of floor plan or measurement app before, but they’ve usually fallen well short of their promises — especially regarding accuracy. What kind of accuracy can designers expect?

AS: The short answer: Across the case studies we’ve run with professionals out in the field — using Canvas on real-world projects — we see that most measurements are within 1-2% of what’s verified manually by tape measure, laser range-finder, or existing blueprint. You can read all about Canvas and accuracy here.

We typically hear that’s great for design, planning, estimation, pricing, and documentation. However, there are some measurements you’ll still want to get the old fashioned way (for now) when a millimeter can matter for installation. The good news is that normally the number of these critical measurements is relatively low, and it’s easy to adjust the model we return with those manual measurements. That way you can get the best of both worlds if you really need it. We work with custom furniture makers, cabinetry companies, etc. who use that workflow all the time and still see a very big ROI.  

And again — that’s just for now. We’re going long on this space and investing heavily in Canvas, and with that investment will come a steady drumbeat of improvement both in accuracy and other areas.

How does 3D home scanning ease the design process for interior designers?

AS: Interior designers are typically busy small business owners, which means the default state is, “Argh! Crap! I need to take care of that!” or, “Ah! I need to call that vendor!” We get it (we’re a startup ourselves!), and we don’t think capturing a space and recreating it in 3D needs to contribute to that problem — we think it can provide relief. That’s what technology is supposed to be here for, right?

By giving back hours of measuring and drawing/modeling time, our goal is that we can help you focus more on the parts of your job that your clients actually pay and value you for — in this case, design and client experience — and less time on the ground with a tape measure or modeling room architecture.

It’s not just about “scanning time” vs. “measuring and modeling time,” either — a big thing we hear from designers is that Canvas helps parallelize certain parts of the project that used to be sequential. For example, where measuring used to be a 2-person job, a design assistant can scan the house end-to-end in 30 minutes, and the lead designer can spend that whole time talking to the client. Another is that instead of spending the two days after a site visit converting handwritten measurement notes and photos into a 3D model, you can spend that time fully on concepting and discussing ideas with the client. Then, once you get the CAD files back from Scan To CAD, you’re already several steps into the design vs. starting from scratch.

This is certainly helpful on small projects, but on big projects where construction is involved (and a full, construction-grade survey isn’t done until Week 3, 4, or even later) this can literally mean weeks shaved off the project. With Canvas, you can get a design-ready 3D model on Day 1, and start having real design conversations with the client, finalizing finishes and decisions, or otherwise short-circuiting problems that wouldn’t materialize until way later in the project.

“By giving back hours of measuring and drawing/modeling time, our goal is that we can help you focus more on the parts of your job that your clients actually pay and value you for — in this case, design and client experience — and less time on the ground with a tape measure or modeling room architecture.”

Practically, what does that usually mean for the designer? What kind of ROI are they seeing on their investment?

AS: We typically see 3D scanning advance one of the following ROIs for designers:

Accelerating or optimizing time on-site. Whether it’s because they want to maximize their time or their staff’s time, spend less time measuring and more time talking to the client, or simply getting out of the client’s hair faster, this is usually why designers seek us out in the first place. No one likes measuring!

Scaling up the number of new project kick-offs. Where a new client visit might normally take up a half or even complete day, now, you can fit 2 or even 4 times the number of site visits in a single day.

Upselling bigger projects. This one was unexpected for us, but has shown to be really powerful. Where it previously would take way too long to measure a kitchen “just in case,” we now see our customers scan extra rooms (especially kitchens) or even the whole home as a matter of practice. Sometimes they convert the extra scans right away to pre-sell a concept for extra rooms (to help close the sale of a bigger project), or sometimes, they simply hold on to the scans until they’ve completed the first project and the client has signed on to a second. Just recently, I saw someone put through an order for scans that were taken nearly a year prior.

Expanding 3D to more clients. I think most designers (or at least the ones that we’re going to have any chance selling to) would agree that clients want 3D — their clients watch HGTV, and it creates an expectation that they should have it if they’re doing a design project. But frequently, it’s just not in their budget. We frequently hear from our design customers that Canvas makes it practical to offer 3D visualization to more of their clients, because it automates the first few steps of the process (measuring and modeling the space as-is). In particular, when you’re measuring a space for a 3D visualization, you typically need a lot more measurements than you otherwise would to make scale look realistic. With Canvas, you don’t have to worry about which measurements you might have missed — every measurement is captured in the scan.

So, overall: we help you complete more projects, faster, for more money, with a better customer experience. We typically hear time savings between a few hours on a small one-room project up to 30 hours on a really big and complicated whole home project with lots of moving parts.

What does a designer need to use Canvas?

AS: You’ll need an need an iPad, Structure Sensor, and (optionally, but recommended) our Wide Vision Lens. The Structure Sensor allows your iPad to measure depth information, which is why you can get true, scale-accurate measurements from your Canvas-captured 3D models. The Wide Vision Lens helps Canvas maintain the best possible tracking on the scene, which enhances the quality of your results. You can buy both the Structure Sensor and Wide Vision Lens as a bundle on canvas.io for $399.

Once you have the sensor attached, calibrated, and the Canvas app installed, you’re ready to start scanning!

Occipital produces powerful products that help you scan physical spaces, including: Structure Sensor, Structure SDK, Structure Core, Bridge Engine, Skanect, 360 Panorama, Canvas, TapMeasure, PX-80. Of these tools, which are favorited by interior designers? Why do you think that is?

AS: Definitely Canvas — it’s purpose-built for scanning a space to bring into a 3D design workflow. It’s hands down our most popular product with interior designers because measuring and recreating the space in 3D is the starting point for most projects, so it saves them a ton of time. We typically hear between 7 and 10 hours on a typical project, but often up to 30 on larger ones.  

That being said, the same Structure Sensor that comes with Canvas can be used for more than just room scanning. Most often, that’s scanning furniture to get a 3D model of items at a market or that a client wants to keep. A less often but fun one we hear about is scanning your client and 3D printing a miniature bust of them as a gift at the end of a project. There are over 90 apps for Structure Sensor, so there’s quite a bit out there to explore.

If you’re working on a really big commercial project, you may end up dealing with the PX-80. It’s made for scanning much larger spaces than a home, like a museum, theater, or large apartment complex. Canvas has been used on some really large spaces too, but if you’re regularly doing big spaces like this, we tend to bring up the PX-80 as a way to save a huge amount of time on-site.

Finally, if you just need a quick measurement or rudimentary floor plan, TapMeasure is a good companion app. It’s a free iPhone app, and it also outputs to SketchUp.

Here is a side by side of results form TapMeasure, Canvas, and PX-80, for comparison:

Photo courtesy of Occipital

For the interior designers who feel overwhelmed by this technology, or have purchased an Occipital tool and simply don’t know where to start, what kind of educational support and tutorials do you provide?

AS: Learning new technology can definitely be intimidating — especially when you’re so pressed for time as it is. That’s doubly true for something like 3D scanning, which isn’t just a new interface, but often involves totally new workflows and ways of approaching a project.

We’re here to help navigate that and make it as seamless as possible. Not only do we offer a comprehensive getting started guide in the app, via email, and a video tutorial on how to get the best possible scans, but we also try to hop on the phone with pretty much every new customer to see if there’s anything we can do to help. Sometimes, that might mean looking at a first-time customer’s scan to give them confidence that they did everything right, others it’s talking through their projects and their goals, and still others it’s simply to reassure them: “yes, this really does work!”

Another thing that we do that I think is different from most companies, but shouldn’t be: we advise on the full picture. We frequently educate our customers on which 3D modeling programs to use, make referrals to people that can provide training for those programs, or recommend tangential products or service providers that you might combine with Canvas to level up your customer experience or fill in any gaps toward achieving your goals.

Why is it important for technology companies to provide high-touch support and onboarding to its customers?

AS: I can definitely say it’s a lesson you learn the hard way! When we were first getting started, we definitely took a more “low-touch” approach relying more on documentation and email — largely out of necessity because our team was so small. Some customers definitely fell through the cracks early on because things were just a little too difficult to figure out on their own, or they just needed a little bit more coaching on how to make it work for their use case.

“Onboarding is a critical time period where our customer is investing in us, so it’s important to meet them halfway and invest in getting them up and running.”

As we’ve grown, and particularly in the last couple months, we’ve invested much more in higher-touch support and onboarding for our customers, both as a means to learn more about how people are putting Canvas to use in real-world projects, but also to help start more people off on the right track. Onboarding is a critical time period where our customer is investing in us, so it’s important to meet them halfway and invest in getting them up and running. In many cases, a simple phone call can make the difference between “this works for 10% of my projects” and “this works for all of my projects.” Once you’ve completed your first project and achieved success, you’re usually off to the races, and questions are few and far between.

In your opinion, how is technology impacting the design industry for the better?

AS: From what I can tell, the design industry has had a bit of a disjointed experience with technology to date. For firms regularly doing large commercial or industrial projects with lots of construction involved, technology has totally upended the traditional process — 3D scanning is frequently used, 3D rendering is frequently used, and if the firm is big enough they will often eventually build custom software to help them manage their projects. But if you’re doing a living room redecoration, or a kitchen model, until recently, you were just plain stuck with the old fashioned way. Now, we’re starting to see an inflection point where technology is becoming cost-effective and simple enough that it’s gaining traction on “standard” residential projects, even hitting DIYers and regular homeowners — meaning major time savings on a typical project. It’s a slow transition, and there’s a lot still to come, but there’s no doubt (in my opinion, at least) that it’s happening.

What that also means is that the industry itself is changing very rapidly. Overall, technology is allowing designers to source and complete projects way faster and way more efficiently than ever before. On the one hand, that means more designers are able to stand out on the basis of the quality of their service, competitiveness of their price, and their genuine creativity — not how well they can manage their vendor invoices or measure a room. But it also means designers are getting more pressure from new players and alternative business models, not to mention consumers having more tools and transparency at their disposal to do things themselves. That’s not necessarily a good thing for the bottom-line.

I think that change, both positive and negative, is going to continue. For example, in 2018, 3D is a way to stand out from your competition and win clients, but in 2019 or 2020 it’s just going to be the expectation from all clients. The good news is that, at least from what I can tell from our customers, designers (and small businesses in general) are starting to think about finding and incorporating technology as a core competency of their firm — a necessity for competing and making clients happy in 2018, not simply a rainy day project for a summer intern. That means that change, while not always easy, is going to get easier to deal with over time.

Here at Ivy, we’re more than just an interior design software. Our mission is to provide interior designers with the community, resources and tools needed to manage your business beautifully. Are you searching for a business management tool to help streamline your workflow as an interior designer?