Our feet log a lot of miles when making the rounds at trade shows. So we surveyed design pros to round up the comfortable footwear at every price point that doesn’t sacrifice on style.

Photo via Everlane

Women’s

Bells & Becks Mirella Gold, $345

Sumptuous metallic suede, gold tassels, a padded leather footbed, and a short stacked wooden heel.  What’s not to love about these gorgeous, luxe mules, which are expertly handmade in Italy?

Everlane’s Day Heel, $145

“A heel you can walk in. All. Damn. Day.” That’s the promise of these ballet-inspired rounded toe heels. Made of supple leather with a 2-inch block heel, elasticized back, and cushioned insole, these shoes were in such high demand that at one point, the wait list to buy them topped 28,000 people.

Tory Burch’s Emmy Mid-Heel Pearl Sandal, $199

Customers rave about the comfort of these mid-height leather heels embellished with pretty strands of pearls.

Birdies’ Phoebe in Floral Jacquard, $140

Are they slippers or are they shoes? There’s no reason to label these lovely hybrids from Birdies, which were made to echo the comfort of a slipper (think memory foam, comfort cushioning, arch support, pressure-reducing heels, and quilted satin linings), but with sturdy rubber soles that are meant to be worn outside. Buying them is a no-brainer, but good luck deciding between all the pretty options, including velvet, jacquard, calf hair, and vibrantly colored satins with OTT pom-poms.

Gucci’s Screener Leopard Print Sneaker, $750

You might think you can’t wear sneakers to design shows. But these 70’s-inspired Gucci trainers are chic enough to be the exception to that rule. Made in Italy of leopard-print suede with pink and black leather, they’re emblazoned with Gucci’s signature green and orange Web stripe. 

Everlane’s Editor Slingback, $155

These sleek and streamlined, pointy-toed slingbacks have a minimal heel and are made of super soft suede for ultimate comfort. Snag them in classic black or cream, or in outfit-making colors like persimmon, rosewood pink, or mustard yellow. 

Rothy’s The Point in Olive Camo, $145

If you haven’t tried Rothy’s, you’re missing out. The company promises that no break-in period is needed with their innovative, 3-D shoes. Made with comfort and sustainability in mind, the seamlessly designed shoes are made of recycled water bottles knit into a soft yarn, with super flexible carbon-free plastic soles. They’re incredibly lightweight, don’t ever seem to wear, and are machine-washable, making them perfect for travel.

Margaux’s The Heel, $295

Chunky block heels give feet more surface area for shock absorption than skinny heels, making for more comfortable strides. This padded Italian haircalf heel comes in seven versatile colors, but the “new neutral” leopard print might be the standout choice.

Dr. Scholl’s Countdown Wedge Bootie, $125

That’s right: Dr. Scholl’s makes chic shoes. Pair these super-versatile black leather booties with pants, dresses, or pencil skirts and tights. The 2 3/8-inch wedge heel gives a good amount of added height, and the wedge heel and cushioned insoles promise all-day comfort and reduced foot pressure and fatigue.

Shoe The Bear Kitten-Heeled Ankle Boots, $190

Add a pop-of-color to a basic black outfit with this playful pair of hot-pink booties. The eye-catching color adds drama, but the dainty kitten heel is easy of your soles.

Men’s

Cole Haan’s ØriginalGrand Wingtip Oxford, $150

The timeless style of a wingtip oxford, plus modern Grand.ØS cushioning technology. Made with buttery leather, handmade brogue accents, and Cole Haan’s propriety cushioning system, these oxfords are easy on the eye and your feet. Choose a classic color like chestnut-colored Woodbury, or this matte navy leather.

Ugg’s Balvin Boot, $200

Ugg’s talent for comfy footwear extends far beyond slippers. These versatile leather boots are sleek enough to be worn with slacks for trade shows, yet sturdy enough to don with denim for construction site visits.

Ted Baker London’s Lansee Brogues, $90

Padded Airtex lining and an Ortholite cushioned footbed bring added comfort to these grey ultrasuede lace-ups.

Christian Louboutin’s Officialito P Flat, $895

Why should the ladies get all the Louboutins? These sophisticated loafers showcase black jacquard fabric woven with metallic Lurex thread, a calfskin toecap, and oversized cotton tassels. The quality craftsmanship and supple materials ensure a comfortable fit. Wear them all day, then kick up your signature Louboutin red soles at the end of it.

Cole Haan’s Washington Grand Laser Wingtip Oxford, $400

These reimagined dress shoes feature technology borrowed from running shoes, plus a modern perforated leather laser-cut design. Thanks to lightweight, cushioned energy foam, a precision-engineered anatomical footbed, and a flexible, full-motion outsole, you’ll look like you’re wearing oxfords, but feel like you’re sporting trainers.

Being an interior designer is an exercise in multi-tasking. Every day is a juggling act of client meetings, home, site, and design center visits, trouble-shooting, budget finagling, sample book schlepping, and managing client expectations. To get some tips for managing all the aspects of your business without running yourself ragged, we talked to interior designer Beth Clarke, President of the Portland, Oregon chapter of the Interior Design Society. 

Finding New Clients

Building and adding to a client list is a key component to any business…but it takes time and effort to recruit new customers. One timesaving solution? Make sure your work is so great, word of mouth from happy clients does the legwork for you. “You want to make the client experience so good that your clients can’t keep from raving about you!” says Clarke. “We need to remember we provide a customer service. If that service is excellent, clients will tell others.” 

According to Clarke, part of creating a stellar client experience is not just staying on top of trends and new products, but educating your clients on them too. Empowering your customers with your industry insights makes you more indispensible to them, and more likely to recommend your services to others.

Self-Promotion

Clarke says that the best way to be efficient with your marketing efforts is to be intentional about your strategy and messaging, and then track your marketing data. “You also have to find what works for you…not everyone else. I joined a networking group that people raved about. But at the end of the year, I had earned nothing from the affiliation, so I knew it was better to move onto other marketing tools.” 

Managing Project Costs

The most important aspect of managing project costs is understanding the budget constraints from the start, and working within those parameters. Having multiple go-to vendors that have a variety of price points is also key.

“The other part of that equation is knowing your clients well,” Clarke advises. “Some will appreciate being shown something that’s higher in price if it’s the detail that takes their design to a higher level. Others won’t. Have a backup plan in place if you’re not quite sure what they’re thinking so they know you’re taking both their design and bottom line into account.” 

Labor costs are trickier than materials since you don’t have any control over them. “But what does help is being clear and concise with the information that’s needed for the work. Communication is crucial to helping you keep your labor costs from being higher. When I don’t give a contractor all the information they need, it will take more time for them to do the work. And we all know time is money,” adds Clarke.

“Another thing I learned the hard way is I don’t need to buy every sample book or tool that’s available. The more things I have in my office, the more I have to manage,” she says. So if you’re not going to be pulling a sample book off your shelves often, consider borrowing it from a rep when you do need it, instead of buying it yourself. (After all, if you find you need it more often that you thought, it usually only takes two weeks to get a book delivered.)

Cash Flow

Never, ever…ever buy product until the client has paid! “That was drilled into my head in design school,” notes Clarke. “There are a few times when I will break that rule. But only when I know the client well enough to know they’ll pay what they owe, or when the amount is small enough that it’s not going to be a financial strain if I don’t get paid. I’ve had to delay projects until the money is in my account at times, but I’d rather do that than run the risk of taking a financial hit.” 

Finding the Right People to Work with

Time and perseverance are the building blocks of creating a Rolodex of trusted and reliable colleagues. “Start by asking people you know have the same standards as you do — then do your homework,” says Clarke. “Don’t be afraid to ask contractors hard questions. It took me time and a few hard lessons to learn this for myself. It may feel uncomfortable at the beginning, but remember that you’re your client’s advocate on this project, and you need to ask as many questions as it takes so you know this relationship will work.“

Managing Client Expectations

A disappointed homeowner equals stress and strain on the client-designer relationship. So how do you manage their expectations from the start? “It’s all about communication! I’ve learned that I need to be in regular contact with my clients, even if it’s just to say everything is on track and there’s nothing new to report. When I don’t take the time to communicate, it almost always leads to problems. “

Working on the Go

Running between meetings. Lugging around samples. Eating lunch in your car. How can you minimize the stress of constantly working on the go? Clarke has some tips.

“I work on planning my appointments so I have some down time to process all the information I take in during the appointment.” She schedules client appointments on specific days of the week so she can have time to work at a showroom the next day, creating a buffer of non-client time for her brain to recharge. 

Clarke also keeps a stash of energy bars or other healthy snacks on hand — or stops to get a cold drink  — to nourish her body in between appointments. “It also tells my brain it’s time to take a break.” 

And how about lugging around all those sample books? “I always tell my clients schlepping samples is my workout routine! I put my smaller client samples in large vinyl pouches, along with their design plan details. Everything is corralled and easy to grab.”

Clarke also keeps sturdy tote bags that can hold a lot of heavy materials like sample books and tiles. In her car, she keeps a to-go bag of supplies like paint decks, pens, notebooks, and tape measures. “These are things that I might not require at every appointment, but need enough on a consistent enough basis they need to be on hand.” 

Scheduling and Time Management

Time management might be the trickiest aspect of running your own interior design business. Even for someone as well organized as Clarke, it’s a constant challenge. “For me, it’s definitely a work in progress! And some days are easier than others. But I’m always learning new insights that will help me be more efficient with my time.”

“I recently realized how little margin time I put into my schedule, so I’ve been working on adding more into my calendar. I’ve noticed that when I do, distractions of a client problem or another surprise detail that pops up doesn’t derail my day.”

Another valuable lesson is that schedules can always be streamlined. Clarke is constantly trying to refine her schedule so she doesn’t end up spinning her wheels. “I keep track of the things that take a lot of my time — especially the ones I dread doing — and look for ways to make them smoother, or even eliminate them altogether. When I ask myself why I do what I do and what benefit is, that can help me see when I need to refine or get rid of it.”

Setting Boundaries with Clients

So many designers end up working after hours, and taking client calls late at night and on weekends. But those blurred lines have a huge impact on a designer’s work-life balance. 

Clarke creates clear boundaries by not answering texts or phone calls outside of business hours. “If I don’t respond, they can’t continue the conversation!” she quips.

But another helpful thing to keep in mind is that texting or calling after hours may not mean a client is expecting an immediate response. “I understand that sometimes those texts or calls are made not necessarily to have me drop everything to answer at that moment. They can be my client’s way of getting another item off their to-do list. Knowing this also makes it easy to wait and respond on the next business day.”  

Call it a mantra, mission statement, or your guiding principles. Distilling the aim of your business down into a few sentences can be a challenge. But pinpointing a driving philosophy can be a helpful tool to keep you and your team on track. A dozen industry vets share the mantras for their interior design businesses.

Lauren Li of Sisällä

“Our business mantra is we design spaces with good vibes, for good times. We mean this sincerely. We design for our clients; it’s not for us or to inflate a designer ego. We believe that good design can greatly enhance daily life.”

David Hopkins of Praed Projects

“Our most rewarding projects are those that we feel are really done – when the space is furnished, all of the white tags are cut off of the ends of the lamps cords, and the dining room buffet is full of perfect napkins just waiting to be used. We don’t think that clients are hiring us to just design for them…we are setting up a lifestyle for them.”

Staci Munic of Staci Munic Interiors

“My mantra: I treat my clients’ projects as if they were my own.”  

Deborah Costa of Design Alchemy

“Home is very important to us and we need to live and work in spaces that inspire and ground us. We feel blessed that we can do the same for others. We do our best to create peace in our client’s homes and develop spaces where people can truly relax, reflect, love and grow.”

Kerry Green of Kerry Green Design

“My job to show clients things they never knew existed and mix things in an unexpected unique way. As Diana Vreeland said, ‘Give ‘em what they never knew they wanted.’ ” 

Christopher Kennedy

“I definitely like to infuse my designs with a healthy dose of sunny California optimism. I also believe that everything in life begins with our thoughts – so I like my designs to inspire people, lift their spirits, and bring out their best.”

Leslie Martin and Kim Meardon of M & M Interior Design

“Always exceed expectations.”

Leanne Yarn of Yarn Design Associates

“Richard Branson has a nice quote that I follow in business. He said, ‘If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!’ ”

Sashya Thind Fernandes of iD8 Design Studio

“Be a great collaborator, and most importantly, have fun! I strive to create a culture where our designers’ opinions are valued and the studio environment is positive and fun! As a working mom, I focus on creating a balance between work and life for myself and my employees.”

Lisa Furtado of Lisa Furtado Interiors 

“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.’ ”

Lindsey Borchard of Lindsey Brooke Design

“You can do anything, but not everything. Here at LBD, we are a team and work better and stronger because of it. I am where I am today because of so many people other then myself and I always want to remember that.”

Barbi Stalburg of Stalburg Design

“I’ve never really had a business mantra, but I can absolutely say that I have never let any obstacle stop me from growing, learning, and trying again. Ever. Not a difficult job, not a mean client, not a construction nightmare. Nothing will get us down for long, and there is always a learning opportunity.”

Behind the Design: Kia Stanford, owner of Kia Designs, London, UK

Photography by Anna Stathaki

Could you share some background about how you got into interior design and what led you to launch your own business?

I got into interior design through working at a design store. I had done a history degree actually, but I realized while on the job that interior design was something that I really wanted to do with my life. My time there had started as just a job to pay the bills, but I ended up being there for over six years. The last 18 months of that time was spent running part of the business as a manager, which is when I decided to start working for myself. That was in 2008. I decided to move away from the store to set up an interior design studio of my own on the last day of December, and it’s the only New Years resolution I’ve ever kept. 

What types of design does Kia Designs specialize in, and is there something in particular your company has become best known for? 

We specialize in residential design (though we are branching out into commercial work), and our work is extremely client specific. We don’t have a set design style or color palette that we default to. Everything we do is tailored to our clients and how they live, not to creating a portfolio in a specific design style. What we do specialize in isn’t a specific sort of design but rather a way in which we communicate with our clients. We pride ourselves in our transparency. We keep up with the latest online portals and digital tools available in order to make ourselves as open and available to our clients as possible. What we want is for our clients to feel not only informed but involved in the design of their new home. We want them to feel comfortable with the process and with the end result. That end result is their home, it’s important. It’s essential for us that our clients feel that they are able to communicate effectively with us and know what’s going on at any time. 

How would you describe your design aesthetic? 

We don’t really have an overarching design aesthetic, it’s very individual to each client. At the moment we’re working on a country manor that has all the fixings of a manor estate, the whole swags and tails effect, but we’re also working on a new build modern apartment in Kennington. The breadth of what we do is really wide. Design aesthetics aren’t our style. 

Are there any trends in interior design that you’re loving right now? 

We don’t do trends. For the most part, home interiors trends are actually quite far behind trends in, say, fashion, which clients are actually paying attention to. Clients tend to lean towards the trends they have more access to. Aside from that, clients usually aren’t actually looking for trends, even when they might think that they are. Our clients, and most residential clients, are looking for something that’s more timeless than the latest design trend for coral. They’re not looking for something that’s disposable. They’re looking for something that is sustainable in the long term, and won’t go out of fashion or look dated in a few years. 

Which markets do you attend and how have these helped you evolve your business? 

We attend Decorex every year, and we were at Maison & Objet in Paris this January. We were also at House & Garden. For us, going to these shows is about meeting new suppliers and building better relationships with the ones that we currently have. We have gone to smaller design shows like Oslo Design Fair and come back with great suppliers we wouldn’t have found otherwise.

What’s the most challenging part of running your interior design business?

It’s definitely the people element of running a business. When you run a design studio as opposed to just working by yourself or for someone else, you need to make sure that everyone on your staff knows what they need to be doing and is doing it efficiently. There are hundreds of moving pieces, and wasted time builds up. You need to make sure that everyone is on task. Creating a good team is essential: Getting the right people for the job—and people who work together well—makes it possible to be able to do the work that you do. It’s all about the team. 

What’s the most rewarding part of your job? 

The most rewarding part is seeing the projects at the end.  Seeing all of your hard work finished, seeing your vision realized and seeing people living in it. What’s especially rewarding is seeing your clients instinctively using elements of the design that they wouldn’t have imagined for themselves to begin with, like a Quooker tap, and seeing that it really does work. That’s the most fun bit. 

More Behind the Design: 

Lauren Li, Sisällä, Melbourne, Australia

Christopher Kennedy, Palm Springs

Maureen McDermott, Winter McDermott Design, Sag Harbor, NY

As an interior designer, you’re in the business of aesthetics. So you know how important it is for clients to get an impression of you and your brand that conveys your best work and inspires them to hire you for their design projects. From doing an assessment of your current branding to fine-tuning your web site and social media presence and more, here are the 7 steps to creating a professional brand that best reflects who you are as a designer.

Written by Elizabeth Brownfield

You Are Your Brand

The word “brand” can feel a little sterile and corporate. So it may not be a term you associate with yourself as an individual. But the truth is, as an interior designer, you are your own brand. Your work is the most important aspect of your business, but don’t forget that prospective clients will hire you or not based on their first impressions of what they find about you online and get from meeting you in person. So it’s critical that every aspect of your brand identity — from your personal appearance, business cards, professional web site, and social media presence — exude good taste and a strong and consistent message about you and your work.

Start with a Sweep

Before you get started updating your brand, first take some time to assess its current state. Do an online search of your name and company and note the results that come up for you, as well as brands with similar names. It’s also a good idea to do a broader search for interior designers in your area to see which pop up first and where you appear in the rankings. If it seems like your professional site isn’t ranking as well as you’d like, you may want to refresh the copy on your web site with SEO optimization in mind.

Consult with a Colleague

It’s always good to get a fresh pair of eyes — especially on the things we’re overly familiar with, like our own professional web sites and online identities. Ask a fellow interior designer or someone else you trust in the design community to give you feedback on your web site and online identity, and offer to do the same for them. Ask them what they liked and want to see more of, whether or not they think your site represents who you are as a designer, what holes they noticed in your content, and for any other constructive criticism they can offer. Advice from someone else in the industry can be invaluable.

Define Your Brand

Your style has likely evolved over the years, so make sure your online persona matches where you’re at today as a designer. Create or refine your business motto, or make a list of words that define your design philosophy. If the design, copy and photos you have online feel stale or just not representative of who you are today, delete or replace them with updated versions.

Identify Your Target Client 

Think about your ideal client: who they are, what their style is, and the types of projects they’ll come to you for.  Then try to look at your branding through their eyes to make sure that what you’re portraying matches up with the expectations of those clients. Include testimonials from satisfied clients on your web site so potential customers can read for themselves how great you are at achieving your clients’ design dreams.

Create a Professional Social Media Presence

Whether you’re a fan of social media or not, having a presence in that arena is key in today’s climate. If you don’t already have separate accounts for your personal and professional lives, create them. It’s best to have one private account on each platform where you can post family and vacation photos, and get tagged in goofy pics with friends, and separate public accounts where you post specific content that best represents your business. That way you don’t have to worry about whether or not your personal pics look professional enough to be the first impression potential clients have of you. 

Curate a Strong Visual Identity

Since you’re in the business of creating beautiful homes, there’s nothing more important than maintaining a visual online identity that reflects your eye for design. The more consistent the images, the clearer your vision will come through to clients. So go for streamlined quality over quantity when it comes to photos on your web site and social media. And make the time to photograph new projects so you have a steady stream of fresh images you can use to showcase your wonderful work.

As an interior designer, you spend your days (and probably some nights and weekends too) transforming your clients’ homes into beautifully decorated havens. When you’re ready to take a break, visit one of these wellness-focused sanctuaries around the country. Unwind, decompress, and recharge with their pampering massage services, and get inspired by their stunning architecture, gorgeous grounds, design-driven interiors too.

Written by Elizabeth Brownfield

Canyon Ranch: Lenox, MA

The Canyon Ranch brand is practically synonymous with wellness and good taste. And while they’re known for their modern flagship location in Tucson, AZ, interior designers will be particularly drawn to the historic Bellefontaine Mansion in the heart of the Berkshires. Built in 1897 as a private residence, the home was sitting empty and ravaged by fire when the founders of Canyon Ranch acquired it. They worked with the local historic preservation board to restore it to its original turn-of-the-century glory. The expanded estate now boasts 100,000 square feet dedicated to health and well-being programs geared towards sleep issues, fitness reboots, weight management, life transitions, and purely pampering massages and spa treatments.

Cal-a-Vie: Vista, CA 

When you step onto the grounds of Cal-a-Vie and take it the idyllic rural surroundings, scent of blooming lavender, homes covered with terracotta tiles, and charming hilltop chapel, you might think you’re in Provence instead of California. And in fact, the serene villages of the Provence region were the inspiration for this retreat just 40 minutes from San Diego. There are only 32 private villas, so it has an intimate feel, and the staff-to-guest ratio is a luxurious 5-to-1. Guests can choose from hikes, tennis, golf, and over 100 exercise classes, plus culinary and nutrition programs and mind-body-spirit practices like yoga, meditation, and mindful art. 

Amangiri: Canyon Point, UT

If you could create the ultra-modern desert retreat of your dreams, it would be Amangiri. Luxuriate in the 25,000 square-foot spa, which encompasses outdoor pavilions, treatments rooms and terraces to promote wellness based on Navajo traditions and the elements of earth, wind, fire and water. The only problem? It might be hard to do a digital detox with the endless opportunities for Instagram-worthy views and design moments.

Lake Austin Spa Resort: Austin, TX

When you’re on the lake doing yoga on a stand-up paddle board or reading a book on the sunny dock or, you’ll have to remind yourself you’re a mere 30 minutes from downtown Austin. The tempo of the city feels a world away amid the resort’s 19 secluded and lushly landscaped acres. Choose a room overlooking the gardens or lake, or a cottage with a private soaking tub and outdoor space. All are bright, airy, tastefully decorated, and filled with personal touches like fresh flowers from the garden, which create the feeling that you’re staying at the home of a friend with great style. De-stress with spa treatments, private fitness sessions, strolls through the vegetable garden, tasty and nutritious “conscientious cuisine,” and therapies based on the healing powers of water.

Miraval Resort & Spa: Tucson, AZ

“Life is more meaningful and joyful when in balance.” That’s the founding principle of Miraval, the celebrated retreat set amid 400 acres of stunning Sonoran desert landscape. If you feel chronically overburdened by today’s technologies, the resort’s digital device-free policy will force you to unplug. (That means leaving your tablet at home and packing a hardcover instead, and putting your cell phone “to bed” in a cell phone sleeping bag when you check in.) Take it the views of the desert and Santa Catalina Mountains, go rock climbing or zip lining, or unwind with a cocktail at the pool bar (unlike some wellness retreats, Miraval does not restrict alcohol during your stay). And be sure to try on of several signature equine therapies that incorporate majestic horses with art and meditation.

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa: Ojo Caliente, NM

This unique and storied resort opened its doors in 1868, making it one of the oldest natural health resorts in the country. But its waters were deemed sacred long before that: they’ve been used for healing by many Northern Pueblo tribal communities for almost 3,000 years. Visit the various pools and springs to cure what ails you, and go for a hike, bike ride, or stretch. The resort offers lots of different lodging options, including a historic hotel, various suites, and cottages. All are outfitted with simple and tasteful furnishings and western textiles like iconic Pendleton blankets.

The Lodge at Woodloch: Hawley, PA

Connect with nature and yourself at this adults-only retreat set amid 150 wooded acres in the Poconos, just two hours from New York City. Hit the extensive network of trails, stroll through the picturesque orchards, spend some quiet time walking through the meditation garden or labyrinth, or take a forest bathing class to soak up the tranquility of the trees. The lodge’s rustic wood and stone architecture and furnishings echo the scenic grounds just outside its vast windows. Once you’ve had time to relax and decompress, learn some wellness practices in classes like breathing techniques or meditation to quiet the mind so you can bring some of that serenity home with you.

Call it an occupational hazard, but interior designers don’t just demand excellent taste in their work lives, they have a high standard for style when they’re off-duty too. So rent one of these designer-approved rentals when you’re in the Hamptons for top-notch architecture, dazzling views, fantastic amenities, and tasteful, inspiring interiors.

Written by Elizabeth Brownfield. Photography courtesy of Airbnb.

1. Classic Shingle Style in Southampton

This artful 5,000 square-footer in posh Southampton is impressive enough based on looks alone. The tasteful interiors ooze good style, from the high-end kitchen to the seven brick hearth fireplaces, many open and airy common rooms, generously sized bedrooms, and outdoor entertaining spaces. (There’s also a charming pool house with a full kitchen, bath, laundry and living room.) But the home also comes with an interesting history: the Art Village cluster of properties was originally a school headed up by the famous American painter William Merritt Chase. 

2. High-End Party House in East Hampton

What’s black and white, and chic all over? This grownup party house for 10 in East Hampton Village Fringe. It’s new construction with modern interiors: 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and a sleek kitchen, expansive living room, and gorgeous pool perfect for entertaining a crowd. Another selling point: the sleek bathrooms with dreamy bathtubs and views.

3. Big Sky Barn in Water Mill

This restored eighteenth century barn in the picturesque hamlet of Water Mill sits amid wildflowers meadows and an agricultural reserve, giving it a “big sky” feel. The interiors are open, airy and relaxed, with a vaulted, wood-beam ceiling, huge fireplace, and large farm-style dining table. All five bedrooms are cozy and sweet, with simple, rustic furnishings and crisp white bed linens. Outside, there’s a secluded saline pool and two large patios with white twinkle lights and a fire pit.

4. Contemporary Wooded Retreat in Sag Harbor

Light pours through the vast windows and skylights of this tranquil, contemporary retreat surrounded by nature in Sag Harbor. It’s just 10 minutes away from the beach and vineyards, but the property boasts so many amenities, you may be tempted to stay at home. There’s a gorgeous pool and alfresco dining area complete with an outdoor fireplace and Viking grill, plus lush landscaping throughout the extensive grounds, a koi pond, bocce and tennis courts, outdoor shower, and indoor game room with a billiards table.

5. Bridgehampton Grand Dame

If you’re shopping for more of an estate than a mere house, this 6-bedroom, 6200-square foot mansion may be just the thing. Sink deep into the sumptuous, design-driven interiors, sleep well in high-end bedding, stroll the carefully manicured grounds, and soak in the heated saltwater pool. The ocean is less than a mile away through a quiet cul de sac.

6. Haute Hexagon House in Hampton Bays

On the outside, this funky brown domed house is a lesson in geometry. But inside…it’s a revelation. Everything is white and bright, and sunshine streams in from countless skylights positioned all over the angled roof. Check out the four unique, high style bedrooms, then take the spiral staircase downstairs to a cavernous all-white kitchen tricked out with an ivory piano. Step outside to the deck, kidney-shaped pool, and ebony pool house, all upholstered in chic black-and-white stripes.

7. Modern Shingle Style in Montauk

Clean lines, crisp interiors, and ocean and pond views from every room. What’s not to love about this modern take on the classic Shingle Style Hamptons home? If you need more convincing, at this brand-new 5-bedroom stunner, just take a look at the idyllic porch with stylish swing, contemporary pool, and to-die-for kitchen and bathroom.

8. Chic Wellness Retreat in East Hampton

Open, airy, and filled with light, this chic and contemporary beach retreat promotes wellness and relaxation. It’s in the Northwest Woods area of East Hampton abutting a tranquil nature preserve, and is outfitted with organic and natural latex mattresses with organic sheets, heated saltwater pool and hot tub, infrared sauna, and a gym area with elliptical machine. Designers will especially appreciate that the space was designed and decorated with the help of a feng shui consultant for optimal serenity and energy flow.

9. Updated A-Frame in East Hampton

Mid-century vibes are all around this bright-white, cheerful, and affordable A-frame in Historic East Hampton Springs. The house is 10 minutes from ocean beaches in East Hampton Villages and Amagansett. It’s also kitted out with beach chairs and umbrellas, beach cruisers, kayaks, and SUPs, so it’s perfect for summer fun. But this wooded retreat is cozy year-round, complete with a retro woodburning fireplace suspended from the ceiling and an extensive game library for rainy days.

10. Historic Bauhaus in Bridgehampton
To stay in a house with a pedigree, rent this magnificent Bauhaus waterfront cottage just steps from the ocean. It was designed by the late architect, writer, and Editor in Chief of Architectural Forum, Peter Blake. The peaceful, private house is on stilts, giving it extraordinary views of Sam’s Creek and Mecox Bay. Take in the stunning natural beauty inside from the floor-to-ceiling windows, or from the beautiful deck, dock, or expansive lawn.

As an interior designer, you’ve undoubtedly devoted ample time and attention to your brand image, from your logo to your digital presence to what outfit you wear to an initial consultation. However, you may not have given much thought to your nonverbal brand—the signals you send via your body language, tone of voice, gestures and even the type of eye contact you make. Take a moment to think about it: Are you even fully aware of what you tend to do with your hands or your vocal cadence during important presentations or introductions?

These are hardly trivial details—in fact, nonverbal communication makes up the majority of our communication, explains business coach Nancy Ganzekaufer, a certified body-language trainer who works with many interior designers. How you say things is just as important as what you say, if not more so—especially for interior designers aiming to close a sale. In her Ivy webinar, Body Language 101: How Your Nonverbal Brand Can Affect Your Sales Success, Ganzekaufer details several important ways interior designers can use body language and other nonverbal methods of communication to improve their bottom line. Here’s a cheat sheet to some of her best advice; for even more, watch the full webinar as soon as you have the chance.

When you think about body language, keep these four “Cs” in mind:

1. Communication: We tend to focus on the actual words we’re going to say, but you access a whole other level of sales potential when you harness the power of nonverbal cues.

2. Context: The “right” way to use  body language will always depend on the specifics of the situation you’re in.

3. Cross-Cultural: While most nonverbal communication is universal, some is unique to different cultures and countries—something worth keeping in mind as you conduct business.  

4. Consistency: Make sure your body language always stays congruent with what you’re saying, to get your point across more effectively.

It all starts with your hands: “Your hands are key to getting someone to trust you,” Ganzekaufer says, noting that we have a dedicated area of our brain that responds to the hands. Ways to take advantage of this:

Make your hands visible—Don’t put them in your pockets or lap, or clutch your phone during a first impression. When possible, let your hands be visible in professional photos of you, too.

Use gestures—Ganzekaufer notes that the most-viewed Ted Talk speakers use an average of 465 hand gestures during each speech, while the least-viewed use an average of 272. Gestures help make speech smoother and more natural while simultaneously encouraging people to relax and listen to you. They also convey expertise—you know your topic well enough to mirror what you’re saying with gestures. A few ways to use gestures like a pro:

• Make numbers with your fingers as you list things clearly. Example: When it comes to furniture, does your client prefer good (1), better (2) or best (3) quality, and here are price ranges that go along with each level. Mirroring a list with gestures makes you seem authoritative and trustworthy.

• When you’re saying something heartfelt, put your hand on your heart to emphasize this. Example: “If this was my house, this is what I would do.”

• To avoid looking like you’re doing an interpretive dance, picture keeping gestures within a “box” near your body—keep your elbows at your sides and gesture from there.

• Don’t go overboard incorporating gestures; this can make your speech feel chaotic or overly scripted.

Nail the all-important handshake: Humans are wired to connect touch with trust, since skin-to-skin contact prompts our bodies to produce the hormone oxytocin, which makes us feel connected. That’s one reason a good handshake is so important, especially during first impressions. “I’ve often seen designers walk into a home and not offer a handshake,” Ganzekaufer says. “You should always begin an interaction with a shake, though that might evolve into a hug if you become friendly as you work together.”

A few factors that make for the most trust-inducing handshake—

Keep your hands dry. If you tend to get sweaty palms, keep a handkerchief in your bag so you can quickly wipe them when needed.

Angle your hand for a natural grasp. Keep your thumb toward the sky, your pinky toward the floor.

Match the other person’s firmness.  Show a client you’re meeting them where they’re at by matching their level of firmness, although in general, a firm handshake is best, as it indicates confidence.

Things to know about eye contact (and “power gazing”). “Most people know eye contact is important, but they don’t know how to do it in the most powerful way possible,” Ganzekaufer says. “All eye contact is not created equal.”  There are three main forms of eye contact, each of which covers a different zone of the face:

1. Social gazing: When your eyes shift between the other person’s eyes, nose and mouth.

2. Intimate gazing: Eye contact that drops down to the neckline.

3. Power gazing: When you look only at the eyes and forehead, never dropping below eye level.

Women often default to social gazing, even in professional settings. “That’s because they are taught appeasement in body language from a very young age,” Ganzekaufer says. “They’re told to get along with everyone, to be well-liked, so they begin using a gaze to signal warmth all the time—but this can undermine their power and authority in negotiations and interviews.” Men, on the other hand, often default to power gazing because they’ve been taught from a young age to succeed, to get ahead, to win. This can undermine their ability to connect or collaborate.

When it comes to business, shift to power gazing. When you’re in a professional interaction and want to be perceived as confident, smart, and a leader, you always want to power gaze. “Once you get friendlier with a client and are in their home, social gazing is fine,” Ganzekaufer says. “Just be aware of the difference and be purposeful with your gaze.”

Harness your vocal power: bNonverbal communication also includes the way your voice comes across: its tone, pace and cadence. A confident voice is an essential part of a professional presentation, so here are four steps for leveraging the benefits of effective vocal power:

Speak using your lowest natural tone. Everyone has a different vocal range, or tone you’re comfortable speaking in, but confident people tend to use the lowest end of their natural range. “The reason has to do with the space in their body—the way they stand up tall and breathe,” Ganzekaufer notes. When you’re nervous, you may notice that you don’t breathe and your tone gets higher-pitched, as tension and nerves make your vocal chords and jaw tense. Not only can a higher-pitched voice make you seem nervous, it can make you seem younger (in a not-beneficial way). It pays to practice getting to the lowest point of your range. And when you hear yourself go a bit higher in range during a presentation, take a deep breath, relax your shoulders, then speak as you breathe out.

Avoid the question inflection. Say, don’t ask. The question inflection is one of the biggest killers of vocal power. Its sound implies that you’re unsure of what you’re saying. “One big mistake interior designers make is that they ask their price—’So my initial consult fee is $350?’” Ganzekaufer says. “Don’t ask, just state: My fee is $350.”

Practice vocal variance. The most effective speakers use varied pace, cadence and tempo to keep listeners engaged. They might slow down sometimes, speed up sometimes, stop to show emphasis.

Let your personality come through. Whenever possible, don’t memorize what you’re going to say; try to speak off the top of your head so you sound more authentic. When possible, harness the power of emotion by telling a story.

Use these vocal tips during business phone calls: Even when you’re on the phone, it’s not just about what you say—cues in your tone can affect the direction of the conversation. A handful of key tips for phone success:

• Say hello as you’re breathing out.

• When you’re caught in a bad moment, do not answer the phone. Collect yourself and call back.

• Practice delivering bad news with a low tone, avoiding using the question inflection.

• Pull up someone’s picture when you’re on the phone with them. “That tends to make me slow down, look in their eyes and have the cadence and tone I want,” Ganzekaufer says.

Watch the full webinar for more body language tips for interior designers that’ll help you come across as confident, knowledgeable and experienced—and ultimately close more sales.

More pro tips from the Ivy Magazine archives:

6 Digital Marketing Tips Every Interior Designer Should Read

8 Pro Tips for Organizing Your Interior Design Studio—and Your Precious Time

How to Attract Clients With a Better Website

What qualities mark a great client? In this first installment of our new Pro Panel series, we speak to three home professionals about the signs they’ve learned to watch for in those crucial first conversations that signify a new client will wow them throughout the design process. Landscape designer John M. Algozzini, interior designer Collin Kayser and architect Karen Keating shared their insights in their own words. Responses have been lightly edited for clarity.

Written by Gwendolyn Purdom

1. John M. Algozzini, director of design
K&D Landscape Management
Rockdale, Illinois

We have initial dialogue prior to consultation about scope of work, location and if they have seen our work on Houzz or our website prior to contacting us. If they are familiar with our work, we proceed with a bit more dialogue.

If they are not familiar with our work via Houzz or our website, we ask that they spend a bit of time looking at both venues and then call us back if our portfolio is consistent with what they want to accomplish. It might sound a bit ostentatious on our part, but it has been an effective tool prior to a site meeting. The last item of dialogue is economics regarding fees and budgets, which I usually handle face-to-face at the consultation.

2. Collin Kayser, senior interior designer
Garrison Hullinger Interior Design
Portland, Oregon

• The size and scope of the project fit within our process. This is usually revealed during an initial call or consult. Because we are a professional firm of medium size, we take on projects that allow for full design and allow us to showcase our skill set (CAD drawings, specifications, custom furniture). Not just something like picking paint colors or shopping retail.

• The client has a realistic budget. For a project to be successful, we strive for a finished project with a happy client. If a client has lofty dreams but no budget, right off the bat we are already struggling to meet the client’s expectations. Sometimes clients don’t know what their budget is. But they must be willing to be adaptable — for example, listening to the pros to learn what is possible. Maybe it means upping what they expected to spend or adjusting their wish list.

• They have realistic timelines. We can’t jump on a project and have it completed within weeks. Design is a process, and each phase takes some time.

3. Karen Keating, president and architect
TKP Architects
Golden, Colorado

It can be difficult to distill what it is that makes a potential client feel like a “perfect match” for our firm, but some of the things we watch for are:

• Good communication. People who think about their lives as they live them and can express their feelings and emotions about their experiences. Also, people who are not afraid to tell us when they think something could be better. Nonjudgmental critique is critical to an honest relationship between architect and client.

• People who are observant, who pay attention to the world around them and analyze how and why different places, events, art, lighting, weather, etc. affect them in different ways. In our office we call this characteristic “absorbent.” It is a mixture of analytical and observant.

• People who value aesthetics. People who may own some art or enjoy fashion or appreciate beautiful automobiles. These are not necessarily artistic people themselves, but beauty, whether in a mountain landscape or a well-engineered bridge, speaks to them.

• Energetic, passionate, involved people. The charge of being around people who are doing, caring, working, helping, inventing, moving, experimenting is contagious. It challenges and stimulates us to be the best we can be as well.

• People with perspective. Someone who understands that a beautifully designed home will not fix their relationships, improve their mood or care for their children. It is only a building and can only bring happiness and satisfaction to someone who is already a happy and satisfied person.

Clients who possess these qualities have partnered with us to create our best projects. These have been the homes that inspire us to continue learning, experimenting and improving. The satisfaction of creating the perfect match between a client’s dreams and personality and their custom home design is
the reason we love what we do.