Design Blog

DM on Location: Interview With Martyn Lawrence Bullard

2013-02-15T01:19:38.515Z

Our DM on Location host Alma Squyres meets with top celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard in an exclusive interview as he chats about his book, his show, Million Dollar Decorators on Bravo, his upcoming work with Pottery Barn, and much more!

Best Interior Designers to Follow on Pinterest

2013-02-11T19:57:59.938Z

It's a great source of interior design inspiration, if you know where to look. Here are some favorite designers on Pinterest.

Designer Spotlight: Joanne Palmisano - Salvage Yard Savant

2013-02-06T22:48:48.999Z

Award-winning designer Joanne Palmisano specializes in turning yesterday's castoffs into today's treasures. We had a chance to chat with Joanne to learn how to incorporate salvage elements in any space.

Top 5 Color Mistakes Most Designers Make

2013-02-04T23:19:44.908Z

Some of the designers in my workshop gave me their take on the biggest mistakes when using colors and here's what they came up with.

How to Work with a Custom Cabinetmaker

2013-01-28T22:04:29.823Z

Custom cabinets are a wonderful addition to any design but there are some things you should know before you commit.

Are You Ready for the Top Colors of 2013?

2013-01-26T01:14:19.527Z

A nod to 3 colors we'll be seeing a lot more of this year - and timeless pieces that go with them.

Before and After: Staging A Home For Sale

2013-01-21T14:22:12.090Z

When deciding on what to purchase to stage a home for sale, here's one way to get started.

High Point Market Musings

2013-01-17T22:26:45.350Z

Highlights and inspiration from the biggest furniture show of the year.

Prepare for a Better, More Professional Design New Year

2013-01-09T21:25:10.199Z

Design Resolutions for your interiors business for 2013.

Top Design Resolutions for 2013

2012-12-12T20:49:07.311Z

Design stars from TV and the Web share their plans for the New Year.

Surprising Ways to Use Paint and Color in Design

2012-12-12T06:44:58.568Z

Paint can be a low-cost, high-impact way to add character and depth to your designs.

So You Want to Write a Book

2012-12-12T05:19:39.889Z

It's not easy – but it's definitely worth it. Fasten your designer seat belt for a joyous, stressful, tiring, and rewarding ride.

Q&A: An Interview with Jeff Andrews, Designer to the Stars

2012-12-11T21:17:12.772Z

How he broke into celebrity designing, the secret to monochromatic rooms that pop, and what he's working on next.

Inside Our Studios: Rejuvenation Lights Up a New Line of Mid-Century Table Lamps

2012-12-10T23:01:22.130Z

Traditionally known for its historically accurate, American-made hard-wired lighting, Rejuvenation recently introduced two collections of table and floor lamps based on iconic designs.

10 Rules for Using and Choosing Rugs

2012-12-07T20:01:02.309Z

An expert's guide to stylish floors.

The Interior Designer's Creative Gift-Giving Guide

2012-11-30T22:03:10.991Z

Time to start saying thank you to your favorite people this holiday season.

11 Art Smart Tips for Your Interior Design Clients

2012-11-30T00:37:03.253Z

There are ways to finesse your clients to purchase works of art. Here are a few helpful Do's and Don'ts.

Designer Spotlight: Candace Cavanaugh

2012-11-21T20:01:10.228Z

San Francisco designer Candace Cavanaugh has a particular affinity for modern art. Both in her design work and volunteer endeavors for SFMOMA she finds inspiration in the lives and work of modern artists.

How to Turn a Client's Vague Ideas into Real Designs

2012-11-21T19:05:30.080Z

Winning strategies for getting to great results – even when your clients aren't so good at telling you what they mean.

Pinterest for Designers

2012-11-21T18:17:59.349Z

Pinterest is a great way to share and find ideas for everything from decorating to party planning to recipes and more.

Paint - Probably Your Most Important Decorating Decision

2012-11-16T20:18:41.006Z

Take note with some valuable advice from a master painter.

Design TV vs. Reality

2012-11-15T03:53:01.709Z

This Old House, Design Divine, Design on a Dime...if your clients' only experience with remodels and design is TV, they're going to have some misperceptions about how it works – and how much it really costs.

7 Little Dirty Words You Should Never Say to a Client

2012-11-06T18:49:28.828Z

"Think before you speak" is good advice for anyone in business—especially if a "dirty word" is on the tip of your tongue!

Are You Ready for an Impressive Installation?

2012-11-01T23:47:07.746Z

A checklist can help you prepare for the holiday rush - and ensure everyone's happy with the final results.

Inside Our Studios: Pottery Barn Boldly Embraces Black & White

2012-10-31T23:52:04.270Z

Nothing beats the crisp contrast of black and white. Pottery Barn embraces this classic combo in fall offerings that anticipate the stark patterns of leafless trees against a wintry sky or snow falling on a moonless night.

DM on Location: Designer Picks for Fall from west elm

2012-10-24T23:08:02.099Z

Join Alma Squyres for our next installment of DM on Location at west elm Santa Monica. Alma highlights a few of her favorite new products from the Fall west elm collections. Be sure to join our YouTube channel for more exciting videos!

Courting Media Coverage for Your Design Business

2012-10-24T22:28:40.503Z

Simple dos and don'ts for pitching your designs and business to media outlets.

Join us in Chicago with Celebrity Designer Nathan Turner

2012-10-22T18:43:42.342Z

Pottery Barn with Mario Buatta, Milly de Cabrol, Chiara de Rege, and Celerie Kemble invite you to meet with celebrity designer Nathan Turner at our Pottery Barn store in Chicago, IL!

Best-selling Author Elizabeth Gilbert and Her Husband Jose Nunes on Decorating with Asian Accents

2012-10-22T17:48:20.943Z

A visit to the author of Eat, Pray, Love and her partner's picturesque Asian antiques and accessories business.

Join us in Los Angeles with Celebrity Designer Nathan Turner

2012-10-15T18:54:58.865Z

Pottery Barn with Mario Buatta, Milly de Cabrol, Chiara de Rege, and Celerie Kemble invite you to meet with celebrity designer Nathan Turner at our Pottery Barn store in Los Angeles, CA!

Inside Our Studios: Antique Lighting at Rejuvenation

2012-10-12T00:46:14.150Z

Rejuvenation is America's largest manufacturer and leading direct marketer of authentic reproduction lighting and house parts. It's also a terrific source for salvaged antique lighting. Nigel Barnes, Manager of the Salvage and Antique Lighting Division, casts some light on what's new in antique lighting.

Join us in Walnut Creek with Celebrity Designer Nathan Turner

2012-10-10T23:53:09.012Z

Pottery Barn with Mario Buatta, Milly de Cabrol, Chiara de Rege, and Celerie Kemble invite you to meet with celebrity designer Nathan Turner at our Pottery Barn store in Walnut Creek, CA!

Designs Inspired by Movie and TV Sets - and How They Can Go Wrong

2012-10-10T20:39:21.874Z

Some do's and don'ts when using movie or television decor as inspiration.

Inside Our Studios: The New Parsons Collection

2012-10-05T00:10:26.958Z

Several new finishes enhance west elm’s iconic Parsons collection. Read more to find out about west elm's modern interpretation of this classic piece.

Join us in New York with Celebrity Designer Nathan Turner

2012-10-04T21:24:13.186Z

Pottery Barn with Mario Buatta, Milly de Cabrol, Chiara de Rege, and Celerie Kemble invite you to meet with celebrity designer Nathan Turner at our Pottery Barn store in New York City!

Improvements to Designer Marketplace

2012-10-01T22:59:30.467Z

We've been working diligently behind the scenes here at Designer Marketplace to ensure that our readers and members find value in our trade portal as a resource to stay up-to-date on the latest trends, best practices, new products, and exclusive content. We have made a few small changes to our website so readers can have a better, more robust web experience.

Is It Time to Adjust Your Design Fees?

2012-09-29T18:32:29.407Z

Raising prices in a recession might seem counterintuitive, but it can make sense. Here are 5 questions to ask yourself when evaluating what you charge for your design services.

In the Kitchen with Jamie Drake

2012-09-28T19:08:38.136Z

New York-based designer Jamie Drake is responsible for some of this country's most glamorous spaces. Renowned for his exuberant knack for color, his rooms range from subtle and textured to spaces saturated entirely in a single hue. He believes decor expresses one's personality and place, and for him, the kitchen is no exception.

Where to Splurge and Where to Save

2012-09-27T01:05:05.037Z

Custom Designing for Your Clients in the "New Economy": 5 places to get the look for less, and 5 places you should never compromise.

One of My All-Time Greatest Design Mentors

2012-09-21T20:04:17.431Z

It wasn't a person, it was a firm; and it changed my whole outlook on design.

Unexpected Places for Design Inspiration

2012-09-21T01:31:03.822Z

Inspiration can comes from unexpected places and used in unexpected ways.

DM on Location: Designer Picks for Fall from Pottery Barn

2012-09-17T23:52:19.146Z

Join Alma Squyres for our first installment of DM on Location at Pottery Barn Santa Monica. Alma highlights a few of her favorite new products from the Fall Pottery Barn collections. Be sure to join our YouTube channel for more exciting videos!

In the Kitchen With Designer Bunny Williams + A Giveaway!

2012-09-17T19:58:02.850Z

An icon of American style, designer Bunny Williams chatted with our Cultivate team about her kitchen design process, where she likes to make a big statement and what her own kitchen says about her life.

Read more for details on how to be entered for a chance to win one of her latest purchases from Williams-Sonoma!

What to Look for in Online Design Resources

2012-09-14T00:14:20.736Z

Some rules for finding great design online – and some favorite picks.

The 4-3-2 Plan: How to Stretch Your Design Dollars

2012-09-13T01:55:25.555Z

These days, we're all concerned with making project budgets go further. Here's a formula for knowing where to save—and when to spend.

10 Ways to Give Every Design Project a One-Of-A-Kind Look

2012-09-05T21:30:15.996Z

Whatever your budget for a project, it's vital to give it a level of customization that reflects your client's style perfectly. You can do it by cleverly combining custom-made and off-the-shelf items.

Designer Spotlight: Jon Call of Mr Call Designs

2012-08-29T21:23:30.199Z

Jon Call knows a thing or two about luxurious interiors. After training as an architect in Seattle, he moved to New York and worked for Diamond Barrata—"my finishing school," he says—on a number of top-drawer projects. Eventually, he struck out on his own, founding the design firm Mr Call Designs, where he adds elements of luxury to every design, no matter the budget.

Are Antique Pieces a Good Investment for Your Clients?

2012-08-23T19:27:42.078Z

Antiques are now plentiful and easy to find – and resell. Some thoughts on how they can fit into your clients' design strategy.

Inside Our Studios: Stories from Sutter Street

2012-08-21T23:48:02.258Z

Go behind the scenes at the west elm Sutter Street workshop to see how America's finest craftspeople construct and build furniture much like how it was done 100 years ago - by hand, with care.

Trends - How Do They Impact Your Interiors Business?

2012-08-17T02:46:21.467Z

It seems the world leans forward every time whispers of new home fashion trends are revealed.

On the Go: The Mobile Design Business

2012-08-08T23:45:54.639Z

New iPad and Android apps take your whole design business up a notch.

10 Clever Ways to Add Color with Paint

2012-08-02T00:26:12.939Z

From ceilings to floors and all the details in between, there's almost nothing in a room that can't easily be made more exciting with a glorious hue.

Marketing Magic for Interior Designers

2012-07-27T21:04:03.222Z

Is there really a marketing formula that works better for designers? In a way, yes!

The Value of Teamwork Across Design Disciplines

2012-07-25T20:42:52.965Z

Five important steps to take for any new house or remodel.

Professionally Speaking: Interview with Sheilah MacSporran, CEO of Olioboard

2012-07-24T23:32:03.995Z

In the fast-growing area of e-design, Olioboard is one of the most appealing—and addictive—tools available to the design community. Hear how Olioboard's CEO, Sheilah MacSporran developed this exciting tool to create and share design inspiration.

4 Lessons from the 'Design for the Masses' Movement

2012-07-20T20:21:51.197Z

Irwin and I want to share a few lessons we've learned from this "Design for the Masses" movement, lessons that will help us all improve our interior design practices.

Advice for Young and Aspiring Designers

2012-07-18T17:16:58.889Z

What an experienced designer wants you to know before and after they hire you.

Inside Our Studios: west elm - South Africa Collection

2012-07-16T22:37:29.856Z

A look into west elm's recent collaboration with 16 different South African designers and artisans and their newest collection of products.

How to Find Well-Made, High-Quality Furniture

2012-07-13T18:47:21.989Z

A custom furniture maker reveals the tell-tale signs of quality furniture.

Avoiding Awkward Requests for Free Design Advice

2012-07-12T17:58:36.658Z

How should you reply when someone at a party asks for your design ideas? With style and grace, always. Here are five surefire ways to do that.

What to Consider When You've Landed a Showcase Home or Event

2012-07-06T21:38:17.619Z

Make some smart choices before lending your name or work to an event.

Antonio Ballatore: Interior Design's Rocker Maximalist

2012-07-03T20:47:09.728Z

A behind-the-scenes interview with the HGTV star.

When to Call In a Specialist

2012-06-29T21:04:50.347Z

The talents and skills of other specialists can be exactly what you need to make it happen.

Welcome Rejuvenation!

2012-06-27T21:03:50.835Z

We are excited to announce that members of Designer Marketplace are now able to receive a 10% discount at Rejuvenation!

Avoid the Summer Bummer: Easy Updates for Wintry Homes

2012-06-26T23:51:45.823Z

Help clients transition their interiors when the temperature climbs—and create a seasonal-makeover design service that will add to your firm’s bottom line all year round.

Q&A: Interview with David Bromstad

2012-06-11T21:18:14.304Z

HGTV really knocked it out of the park when they selected David Bromstad as their first Design Star. Six years later, he's juggling multiple shows on the network, doing appearances all over the country, and branching out into product lines.

Avoiding the Trend Check List

2012-06-08T16:41:27.778Z

As designers, it's our job to bring something unique and space-appropriate to client's homes.

Working with Grays: 5 Rules of Thumb

2012-06-01T21:08:19.882Z

Recently, I read an article that suggested gray was only the hot colour-of-the-moment for 2012. Not true, trends last a minimum of 10 years. Brown arrived on the scene in the West Coast in 2002 and gray its cooler sister came to stay in 2009/2010.

How Interior Designers Can Work with Feng Shui Specialists

2012-05-23T17:30:18.040Z

The ancient Chinese art of placement can be a nice complement to interior design's pursuit of beauty, function, comfort, and style.

Creating Showcases of Your Design Talents

2012-05-17T18:18:21.044Z

A showcase home or event can be a great way to get creative and market your business.

High Point Market Spring 2012: Fresh Pops of Color Abound

2012-05-15T19:44:11.741Z

Highlights from this year's High Point Market – and what it says about design trends in the year ahead.

My First Interior Design Client

2012-05-11T20:56:38.061Z

If I knew then, what I know now...Hard-won lessons from my first design project.

13 Tips Designers Should Know About Photography

2012-05-09T22:41:01.095Z

An interview with Chuck DeLaney of the New York Institute of Photography.

Designer Spotlight: Tobi Fairley

2012-05-07T20:03:19.066Z

Designer Tobi Fairley is known for her bold, colorful interiors that mix large-scale prints with classic furnishings. But she's also a gifted teacher who views educating clients and colleagues as a mission.

The Importance of Mentors in Design

2012-05-04T20:55:23.748Z

Find your own mentors—the ones who appeal to you, even if they don't know you.

How Well Do You Handle Crisis Management in the Design Process?

2012-05-02T22:55:27.175Z

From major meltdowns to small mishaps - how you deal with oops! moments in the design process can make all the difference.

Exclusive Trade Event with Walker Zanger

2012-05-02T22:25:28.284Z

Earlier in April, we joined Kim Bernard, Walker Zanger's Executive Director of Facilities and Showroom Design for a private tour of their DCOTA Showroom in Dania Beach, Florida and discovered the secrets to their trendsetting products.

A Sneak Peek to the 2012 San Francisco Decorator Showcase

2012-04-27T22:26:36.849Z

The West Coast’s premier showcase is a feast for the eyes. Designer Marketplace has a sneak peek to what's in store for 2012.

5 Revolutionary Game Changers in Residential Interior Design

2012-04-26T23:10:05.304Z

If you're not checking out these design resources, you should be.

Myles of Style: Talking Design with HGTV Star Kim Myles

2012-04-25T00:15:24.032Z

The talented and down-to-earth designer dishes on DIY, decor – and what it's like to be recognized by Queen Latifah.

How to Make Clients' Homes Fit the Needs of Their Family

2012-04-19T18:22:07.715Z

A few simple questions can make every room in the house as efficient - and comfortable - as possible.

The High Point of Trade Shows

2012-04-17T21:34:36.342Z

There's nothing like the experience of a major industry exhibition. Here are some of the design industry's finest shows.

Dorothy Draper's 10 Essential Tips for Interior Designers

2012-04-13T20:08:36.702Z

Some gems of wisdom from an American design icon.

Off-the-Shelf or Off-the-Design Board? Making the Right Interior Choices

2012-04-11T23:07:20.419Z

Rules of thumb for when to go with stock items, custom designs – or a happy marriage of both.

How to Get Noticed Online – Without Starting a Blog

2012-04-05T20:23:53.237Z

Some tried and true ways to get your designs some exposure - without having to be a writer or a social media expert.

Q&A: An Interview with Design Star's Matt Locke

2012-04-03T21:31:54.170Z

He's the kind of designer who can take mundane elements like kitchen soffits and turn them into something worth coveting.

Designer Etiquette: What Do You Do When You Finish a Job?

2012-03-29T21:55:04.071Z

When the design project is done, take the next steps to ensure you have a happy customer for life.

Repeat Business: The Right Way and Wrong Way to Follow Up With Clients

2012-03-27T19:11:27.433Z

Throughout the lifecycle of a designer/client relationship there are many touch-points. Doing it the right way will propel the relationship forward. Missed opportunities or over-saturation can and will drag things to a halt. The trick is understanding the difference.

Keeping Your Designs Elevated While Balancing the Budget

2012-03-22T19:14:42.089Z

Smart places you can save on costs for projects without compromising on quality.

7 Interior Designer Secrets to Successful Accessorizing

2012-03-21T01:45:08.107Z

My partner Irwin and I always talk about a client's "endurance" when it comes to the lengths they'll go to see their design project reach completion. Will the architectural phase – the often lengthy and expensive process of getting the bones right for each room – be too exhausting? Will they properly decorate a room, or will they only have enough energy and funds to cover the bare necessities?

Olioboard for Professional Interior Designers

2012-03-14T19:09:34.638Z

A quick and easy tool for creating sketches of your design plans for clients.

6 Tips Designers Should Know About Personal Appearance

2012-03-09T19:57:54.412Z

Free advice from an image consultant about what interior designers should know about the way they dress.

Inside Our Studios- Morocco Discovered

2012-03-09T01:45:44.947Z

Morocco has always been a place of mysterious delights, but it seems especially appealing to today's modern explorer. Even if your clients prefer to watch Casablanca from the comfort of their own homes, infuse their interiors with intriguing treasures found in the famous souks of Marrakech by west elm’s intrepid buyers and designers.

Most Inspiring Design TV Shows

2012-03-07T22:24:16.279Z

You'd be amazed that today's design shows can give you new ideas for your own business.

Smart Ways to Market Your Interior Design Business

2012-02-29T01:43:52.039Z

Some tried and true ways to pick up new business.

Should You Build Your Own Design Website or Hire a Pro?

2012-02-24T19:38:18.268Z

Just because you know design doesn't mean you should design your own Web site. Know the tradeoffs and benefits of each approach.

13 Books to Add to Your Interior Design Library

2012-02-23T02:43:22.016Z

Great sources for design inspiration that all designers should have on their bookshelves.

How to Make a Lasting Impression with Your Design Business

2012-02-22T22:07:55.559Z

For many projects, you'll need to rely on third-party service providers. Here's how to keep the quality high - and give your clients a level of service they'll remember – when you bring outside vendors into the mix.

Are Designers Too Competitive to Work Together?

2012-02-22T22:01:53.922Z

Even designers in the same highly competitive market can benefit from trading advice, support, and hard-won experiences.

10 Questions to Ask Your Design Clients

2012-02-22T20:52:57.889Z

Take the guesswork out of understanding what your clients really want and expect from a project – ask these questions first.

In Defense of the Interior Design Industry

2012-02-22T20:35:24.081Z

Many new interior designers struggle to explain (or defend) what they do in front of potential clients. Here's how to respond with guts and courage!

Rainy Day Finance Tips for Self-Employed Designers

2012-02-17T19:11:45.385Z

Is your business safe if something happens to you? Beyond the typical life insurance policy, here are some things you can do to protect the best interests of your family and your business.