In this conversation, Steve Larosiliere interviews Rasheeda Gray, an accomplished interior designer and CEO of Gray Space Interiors.

They discuss Rasheeda's journey from marketing to interior design, her unique design style, the importance of client relationships, and the impact of technology on the industry.

Rasheeda shares her experiences with television and representation in design, her aspirations for business growth, and the challenges of hiring and team expansion.

The conversation concludes with a focus on long-term vision and legacy in the design field.

Top 5 Takeaways

• She transitioned from marketing to interior design to connect passion with purpose.
• Her first major client was an NFL player, marking a significant milestone.
• Rasheeda aims for Gray Space to become a household name.
• Good design is timeless and will always be in demand.
• Hiring the right people is a constant challenge for her business.

Chapters

00:00 Creating Intentional Media Spaces

01:50 Rasheeda Gray's Journey to Interior Design

05:49 Developing a Unique Design Style

09:38 Navigating Client Relationships and Communication

13:40 The Role of Family in Business

17:39 Television and Representation in Design

21:27 The Future of Interior Design and Technology

25:25 Expanding the Brand and Future Aspirations

27:06 Celebrating Success in Charity Events

28:31 The Role of AI in Design

29:52 Navigating Growth and Team Expansion

31:08 Strategizing for Market Expansion

33:10 The Future of Design and Legacy

35:23 Exploring New Opportunities in Maryland

37:54 Testing New Markets with Low Risk

39:35 Building Connections for Business Development

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/

You can connect with Rasheeda at:

https://grayspaceinteriors.com/

https://www.instagram.com/grayspaceinteriors/

https://www.facebook.com/grayspaceinteriordesign

In this conversation, Steve Larosiliere and Alyssa Olson discuss the importance of time management for side hustles, the value of market research in identifying problems, and the challenges of navigating career transitions.

They emphasize the need to align purpose with design, the power of manifestation, and the significance of building a positive impact through design.

The conversation also touches on the importance of collaboration, setting clear goals, and creating a strong network for future success.

Takeaways

• Stealing time for side hustles is essential for success.
• Market research can help identify key problems to solve.
• Aligning purpose with design enhances project outcomes.
• Good design should be accessible to everyone.
• Creating a strong network is vital for future opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 Stealing Time for Side Hustles

02:57 Navigating Career Transitions

05:43 Aligning Personal and Professional Goals

08:37 Embracing Collective Liberation

11:11 Building a Purpose-Driven Brand

14:18 Creating Community Through Design

17:14 Strategizing for Future Success

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/

In this episode of the "Designers and Builders Podcast," host Alyssa Olson sits down with Andre Jordan Hilton of Jordan Hilton Interiors to explore his creative upbringing and transformative career journey.

Growing up amidst construction sites with an architect grandfather and landscaper uncle, Andre shares how his family's legacy shaped his design perspective.

He discusses pivotal projects, including working with high-profile clients like an HGTV star, and reveals valuable lessons about client relationships, balancing creativity with practicality, and navigating the ever-evolving design industry while creating timeless, personalized spaces.

Takeaways:

1. Family Influence and Early Exposure: Andre's upbringing in a family of creatives, including an architect grandfather and a landscaper uncle, significantly shaped his design perspective and career path.
2. Client-Centric Design Approach: Andre emphasizes the importance of listening to clients and tailoring designs to their specific needs and lifestyles, viewing the design process as a collaborative and therapeutic experience.
3. Transformative Projects: Working with high-profile clients, such as an HGTV star, has been pivotal in Andre's career, teaching him the value of trust and adaptability in client relationships.
4. Navigating Trends with Timelessness: While aware of industry trends, Andre focuses on creating timeless designs that balance modern and traditional elements, ensuring longevity and client satisfaction.
5. Future Aspirations and Growth: Andre aspires to expand his influence through television and product lines, while continuing to learn from past experiences and mistakes to grow as a designer and business owner.

Chapters:

00:00 - 01:00: Introduction to Andre Jordan Hilton

01:01 - 05:00: Creative Upbringing and Family Influence

05:01 - 12:00: Transformative Projects

12:01 - 18:00: Lessons Learned in Design

18:01 - 25:00: Navigating the Design Industry

25:01 - 30:00: Future Aspirations and Advice

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/

You can connect with Andre at:

https://www.jordanhiltoninteriors.com/

https://www.instagram.com/andre_jordan_hilton?igsh=MW9udm95bGwzank0Zg%3D%3D

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Cheryl Luckett, founder of Dwell By Cheryl, who has built a successful design career by embracing honesty, consistency, and continuous learning.

Cheryl shares her insights on the importance of client relationships, the value of behind-the-scenes work, and the role of education in personal and professional growth. We explore how she has mastered the art of building trust and fostering collaboration with clients who have extended grace and trust, allowing for mutual growth and learning.

Discover how Cheryl's approach to honesty, vulnerability, and consistent communication has transformed her client relationships into lasting partnerships, creating a collaborative environment that benefits both designer and client.

Key Takeaways:

• The power of honesty and vulnerability in client relationships
• How consistency in daily tasks can lead to long-term success
• The significance of behind-the-scenes efforts in building a business
• The role of education and continuous learning in staying ahead

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

02:31 Embracing Honesty with Clients

08:01 The Role of Consistency

14:01 Behind-the-Scenes Efforts

20:01 Education and Continuous Learning

25:01 Advice for Aspiring Designers

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/

You can connect with Cheryl at:

https://dwellbycheryl.com/

https://www.instagram.com/dwellbycheryl?ref=badge

In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Beth Diana Smith, a visionary interior designer who transitioned from a successful career in corporate finance to create bold and unforgettable spaces.

Beth shares her journey of discovering her passion for design, the importance of cultural heritage in her work, and how her business background influences her approach to running her design firm. She discusses her unique design process, the significance of client relationships, and her commitment to mentorship and representation in the design industry.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of managing projects, the role of technology, and the excitement of upcoming projects.

Key Takeaways

• Beth's transition from finance to design was driven by passion and resulted in a successful career pivot.
• Her business background from corporate finance helps her effectively manage and run her design firm.
• Cultural heritage plays a significant role in her design approach and creative process.
• She emphasizes the importance of understanding client needs and maintaining honest relationships.
• Beth values mentorship and representation in the design industry, particularly for underrepresented groups.

Chapters

00:00 From Finance to Design: A Bold Leap

05:39 Discovering a Unique Design Style

10:13 Business Acumen Meets Design

15:57 The Client-Designer Relationship

22:44 Cultural Heritage in Design

28:30 Understanding Client Needs

33:18 Future Growth and Opportunities

38:11 Identifying Bottlenecks in Business

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/

You can connect with Beth at:

https://www.bethdianasmith.com/

https://www.instagram.com/bethdianasmith/

https://www.pinterest.com/bethdianasmith/

In this episode of Designers and Builders, host Alyssa Olson speaks with Niki McNeill Brown, an interior designer who transitioned from a pre-med background to pursue her passion for design.

Niki discusses her journey into the field, the importance of psychology in understanding space, and her client-centered approach to design. She shares insights on creating functional spaces that cater to diverse needs, the inspiration she draws from nature and art, and the significance of custom design.

The conversation also touches on the integration of technology in design, navigating industry trends, and advice for aspiring designers.

Takeaways

• Niki transitioned from pre-med to interior design after realizing her passion for creating beautiful spaces.
• Her background in psychology informs her understanding of how spaces impact mood and behavior.
• She believes in bringing client dreams to life through collaborative design.
• Niki advocates for investing in high-quality, custom design to enhance client experiences.
• She incorporates technology, including AI, to improve design efficiency and client presentations.

Chapters

00:00 Niki's Journey to Interior Design

03:25 The Intersection of Psychology and Design

06:06 Client-Centered Design Approach

10:13 Bringing Client Dreams to Life

13:07 Creating Functional Spaces for Modern Living

16:56 Design Inspiration from Nature and Art

19:50 Navigating Budget and Quality in Design

25:10 The Value of Custom Design

28:30 Incorporating Technology in Design

32:03 Advice for Aspiring Designers

33:56 Opportunities in the Design Industry

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/

You can connect with Niki at:

https://www.mcneillbrowninteriors.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mcneillbrowninteriors

In this recap episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, Steve Larosiliere reflects on insights gained from the previous interviews with industry professionals.

He highlights common themes such as the importance of relationships, the challenges faced in the design and build industry, and actionable insights for aspiring designers.

The conversation emphasizes the value of unique backgrounds, the necessity of education in the industry, and the significance of long-term thinking and authenticity in achieving success.

Key Takeaways

• Relationships are prioritized over transactions in successful businesses.
• Non-traditional career paths are common and valuable in the industry.
• Systems and strong teams are essential for scaling operations.
• Authenticity creates genuine connections with clients and drives success.
• Education is a key responsibility of designers to elevate the industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Insights from Designers and Builders

07:45 Challenges in the Design and Build Industry

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/