A Week In The Life Of An Interior Decorator

Did you ever wonder what it was like to be an interior decorator or an interior designer?

Before I go on, I have to interrupt myself, because I use interior designer and interior decorator interchangeably.

Oh, I know, I’m going to get some flack from that statement and some condescending message informing me what the difference is.

I know the technical difference. One has had a formal education and the other one, not. And yet some of our most brilliant designers never took one interior design course. Conversely, there are many who have studied for years who suck. You can’t teach talent.

I thought it would be fun for you to see a little of what it’s like for me on a typical week; or at least this last week. I can’t say that it’s altogether typical because I am working feverishly on my first interior design product. It’s why I cut back my blogging schedule.

Still… many interruptions this week– from my day job. ;]

The previous Friday, while finalizing a new project, I realized that I needed to take a shopping trip into Manhattan to the D&D Building. I needed to check on a couple of things and sometimes it’s easier to do it in person. I had another job that I needed to find some things for as well. Most of the time, I shop online and order samples that way. I also keep a small library.

It’s really easy getting into the city from Bronxville. It’s a short walk to the commuter railroad. Then, a 30 minute train ride, then two stops on the subway.

No, I’m sorry, you are not going to see me inside. lol

Yes, the other vids I took are that bad and it’s not just a matter of not liking oneself on camera.

It’s far, far worse.

Most of the time, it’s like some character straight out of central casting; perfect for playing a demented psychiatric patient on a day pass from Bellevue. No exaggeration.

In my defense, the entire thing was very impromptu. I had no idea what I was going to say and I was holding a camera (my phone).

First I headed to Lee Jofa. It’s my favorite showroom; so, so pretty. I’m sorry this photo is out of focus. It’s actually a screen shot from one of the videos you’re not seeing. :]

This is one of two rotundas. They redid the showroom about 12 years ago. It was always nice, but now, it’s positively divine!

When I think of Lee Jofa, I think of their iconic Hollyhock fabric. It’s been here for ages and it will always be here. It’s that good. There are two different versions. The hand-screened expensive version and the mega bucks hand-blocked version.

About 20 years ago +/- Kravet bought out Lee Jofa. Since then, Kravet has also bought out Brunschwig & Fils. That was due to the recession. Since 2008, the showrooms in the D&D building are like musical chairs. You never know if someone is still in business or if they’ve relocated to another showroom they weren’t allied with before.

Oh alriiiiiight. One brief video where I’m sitting in the other rotunda. Please forgive the eyebrows. Oh dear… I really do not want to turn into one of those old ladies whose make up is running all over her face because she can’t see what she’s doing.

I really do need some more help!

Here are my refreshments.

These are in sharp focus!

One of the beautiful linen print fabrics I took out. Most of the fabrics at Lee Jofa are very expensive, but this one @ $99.00 retail isn’t bad.

I’ve showed this vignette before; I always love it.

I adore this chair. It’s small in scale and the back is so pretty.

Then, to Brunschwig which although under the umbrella of Kravet, like Lee Jofa has its own gorgeous showroom. I don’t recall seeing this Chinoiserie paper before. Gorgeous!

I would’ve never guessed this to be the entrance to the Brunschwig showroom. It’s like Belle Époque meets Vladimir Kagan

Next is Holland and Sherry. This is one of the coolest showrooms in the D&D building. The company had its beginnings as a manufacturer for menswear fabrics. They still do that and their home furnishings line has a large selection of plaids and tweeds. But it also reps some cool lines like Galbraith and Paul. LOVE this hand-blocked print.

Holland and Sherry is also known for their exquisite trims that can be customized however one wishes. How beautiful is that pillow!

I also visited about a dozen other showrooms before heading back home.

Wednesday, I continued working on my big project and then I placed all of the reserve orders for the many fabrics and ordered the wooden furniture from Tritter Feefer.

Hopefully, all will be installed by Turkey Day. It’s a little tight but we’ll see.

Yes, that’s Brunschwig’s megabucks Le Lac. We were just going to do it on some pillows, but then I got an email that my client wants to do it for the slipper chairs! The teal velvet is also yummy. We’ll see.

We’ll make up for it a little by using this pretty print in the dining room from Kravet. It looks a lot more expensive than it is. We’re painting the walls red. I always love incorporating the wall color either as a solid or as the background of the fabric. We don’t always do that, but it’s one of my favorites. It makes the drapes a more subtle element of the room. Sometimes they can be too in your face.

***

Then, Thursday, first thing… I went to see if I had any phone messages.

please listen. It took me a long time to figure out how to make it so that you won’t hear the vendor or shipper’s name. And yeah… Mr. Ricca is a bit of a character. (I should talk. lol) Great receiving company, by the way!

huuuuuhhhhhh???

That’s a bit heavy before coffee!

Yes, the first table came in damaged too! This was the second table and now there will be a third!

Folks, this is why I only work with nice, normal people. Shit happens. Yes, shit. And quite a bit of it sometimes! It can’t be helped. It’s part of the business. Best to keep it all in perspective.

Thank God it’s only furniture! It’s not the fault of the manufacturer either. Those shippers need to be more careful. Oh, they are all the same! I spoke with the owner of the company that makes the table. Very nice. He even gave me his cell phone number. They are going to turn that baby around by the end of next week. It’s normally a 10-12 week lead time!

Ugh, I had to contact my client right away. I always hate those emails or phone calls. Fortunately, these are long-time clients– very nice. Yes, they’re annoyed! Who wouldn’t be?!

Well… the week isn’t over… I’m working all through LABOR DAY weekend. I really don’t mind. I’m so excited about creating this product for y’all.

Next month, I really am going to High Point for the fall furniture market! Some of you have already read this, but I was selected to be a part of the design blogger’s tour. I’m shocked!

And then, I’m going to Wisconsin for my Mommy’s 93rd birthday!

That’ll be my break.

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

xo,