by Andrea Mast

For many people, houses or apartments have truly become a home in the last year and a half. The pandemic has shifted mindsets from viewing one’s house as a physical structure home base to a 24/7 house, office, place of entertainment, and overall sanctuary. Accordingly, the desire to redecorate and renovate has accompanied this change. Hear from veteran interior designers on designing during this uncertain time and how it’s influencing the industry in 2021.

Elaine Burns Thompson, Pistachio Designs

How This Gorgeous Hoboken Condo Was Designed Entirely Remote

Interior designer Elaine Burns Thompson of Pistachio Designs mastered the art many people learned during the pandemic - remote work. With a clear starting vision and intentional and frequent communication, Thompson collaborated virtually with condo owners to create a homey space while overcoming the challenges of never having seen the space or having met the clients in person.  

Rozit Arditi, Arditi Design

4 Reasons These Designers Want You to Stop With the Gold and Silver Decor

The once-popular gold and silver trend in home decor may be waning. Designer opinion concludes that shiny accents may not be helpful for creating a cozy and easy atmosphere, especially during the pandemic. As designer Rozit Arditi of Arditi Designs explains, “Designers have stopped utilizing silver and gold because it doesn’t provide the room with enough depth and it can read really cold with a lack of personality.” Read on for more takes on gold and silver in the home. 

Armina Kasprowicz, Armina Interiors

A Private Affair: The Rooms Where We Seek Refuge Should Reflect the Soul of the House 

Many people wanted to redo their most intimate living spaces during the pandemic - bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens. Armina Kasprowicz of Armina Interiors designed a 5,000 square foot home for a professional hockey player’s family that included a calming spa bathroom with whites and grays in various textures. See other cozy spaces that were redone to accommodate spending more time at home. 

Ruchi Agrawal Mohan, DesignbyRUCHI

12 designers share how they foster repeat business

While working on interior design projects is undoubtedly rewarding, maintaining close relationships with clients afterward is essential for business and can be just as satisfying. Twelve designers offer insight into how they continue to foster relationships with clients, from check-in notes to gifts to events. Ruchi Agrawal Mohan of DesignbyRUCHI utilizes Instagram to keep in touch with clients, sends out an annual holiday note, and writes personalized emails to all former clients during the downtime of the pandemic. See what other designers do to stay in touch with clients here.