Tag Archives: 21 C Hotel

Designer Profiles: An Interview with Lauren McKay

Lauren McKay, Allied Member ASID

 

How would you describe your professional style?

I think each space should perfectly fit the person living in it by bringing in unique or personalized items. People should fill their homes with things that make them smile!

What are your inspirations?

Blogs, magazines, and the other talented designers at Design Lines!  If I am doing a specific room, I will start by finding inspiration from a textile or rug.

What is the essential element of any room?

 Comfort.

What is your design philosophy?

Design is powerful and life changing.  I also believe that everyone deserves good design which has been reinforced by Judy.

What is the most important thing you’ve learned about business?

Keep track of details and staying on top of everything is key.

What are your three must-haves?

 1. The color green 2. Orbit chewing gum 3. Great artwork in every space

What piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in the design industry?

Get as much real-world experience as possible while in school.  Even working retail or in a showroom can be very beneficial.  

What is the last place you saw that made you think, I wish I’d done that?

 21 C Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky – the hotel is a museum and every space is amazing!

How has the economy affected design?

People want to be sure their space is lasting and also a good investment.  

What has been your smartest business decision?

 Applying to be an intern at Design Lines.

What does value mean for you?

Getting more than you expected.

What’s on your DVR?  What shows do you keep up with?

 Sarah’s House on HGTV, Modern Family & Lost

What are you reading right now?

“The House That Cleans Itself” by Mindy Starns Clark and the Bible.

If you weren’t in interior design, what would you be doing?

 Photography.

How did you get started in this field?

 When I was in high school I took art classes and really enjoyed them. I did a lot of research on the interior design field and felt this is exactly where I should be. I thought it was a good fit. My feelings were confirmed when I found out my great-grandmother was an interior designer.

Where’s one place that you love to have the opportunity to work on a project?

In California, because they seem to have a different perspective on design.

In your eyes, what are the biggest trends for 2010?

 Clean lines, classic forms, and bolder color than we saw in 2009.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Seeing a client smile after their space is finished.

 

To see more designer profiles of the staff click here.

Award Winning Interior Design | Raleigh, NC