FIDM Grad Year: 2008
Campus: Los Angeles
Major: Interior Design
Tell us a little about yourself: I am a 24-year old fanciful yet sensible gal living in Los Angeles. I love to thrift shop, garden, refurbish furniture, paint, and when I can, which is rare, I enjoy doing nothing at all.
Where are you working now and what do you do? I am working as a freelance designer in both residential interior design and set design.
Describe a typical work day: Every day is different. On a perfect day I could spend an entire day in my shop redoing my latest thrift find. However, in reality, I generally spend the morning meeting with my client and contractor to approve plans and purchases, followed by sourcing selections and fabrics and visiting vendors—while being attached to my phone like it's an appendage.
What do you love about your job? I love the satisfaction of a happy client. Everyone desires the best but sometimes a budget does not really allow for getting everything you want. There is nothing better than finding exactly what your client had in mind at half the price!
What is your proudest accomplishment? As a graduate in 2008, I dove into a very difficult industry in a very difficult time. I have had great opportunities and have established a clientele with little previous experience. In the past two years I have been able to work on international, high-end residential projects, completed a full residential project as Principal, styled/built sets for many photo shoots, was an Art Director for two sets for TV shows, started my own company, and still managed to have a social life!
Before
Who is your style icon and why? In furniture design I am enthralled by the sleek and organic flow of Ralph Pucci.
Ralph Pucci chair
A few of my favorite interior designers and architects are Frank Gehry, Jacques Grange, Kelly Wearstler, Ruthie Sommers, Eileen Gray, and nearly every mid-century designer.
Jacques Grange living room design
Ruthie Sommers living room design
Philippe Starck is someone who I have aspired to be like. He has such a great eye for every facet of design from beautiful interiors to creating everyday housewares into works of art.
Philippe Starck product design (citrus juicer)
What's your dream fashion purchase? Well, see as every time I come across a conflict between the vintage dress or occasional chair, the dress loses. My dream purchase would be anything Ralph Pucci or an original Stilnovo chandelier.
Any advice for current FIDM Students? Stick in there and don't give up! It's hard but it will all seem like a breeze once you're out in the field. Also, take as many extra classes as you can and take the extra mile to do internships throughout the program.
What is your biggest dream right now? I would love to be able to open a shop for my refinished vintage furniture and custom lighting line. I would love to do a set for a feature film as well—someday!
Before
If you could ask a question of anyone in art/design history, who would you ask? I am not sure what I would ask but I would love to sit and have a nice long chat with Dorothy Draper, Eileen Gray, Barbara Bestor, and Zaha Hadid.