Jill Q&A

Q: Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

A: I find my inspiration by building relationships with my clients and getting insight into their personalities. For example, by getting to know the colors they like to wear, the places they like to visit, and the magazines they like to read, I am able to draw pieces of inspiration to spark a unique design for that particular client.

Q: What is your design background?

A: My educational background consists of an Interior Design degree from Antonelli Art Institute of Cincinnati and a Computer Drafting and Design degree from ITT Technical Institute. My knowledge base not only enables me to create spaces that are beautiful and functional, but also to understand the construction and technical side of design.

With regards to my professional background, I worked for a high-end custom furniture and interior design shop from 2001-2006. I have worked with over 150 clients, many of whom I have had the opportunity to do repeat work for, to design custom upholstery & window treatments, develop space planning, select rugs, lighting, and perform many other design services . I am also an Allied Member of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers).

Q: What are your personal philosophies toward design?

A: To me, design is an opportunity to create something new and unexpected. I approach every project with the goal of creating a room that is original and unique, while still reflecting the individuality of each client's tastes and needs. You wouldn't want to show up somewhere wearing the same outfit as someone else, just like you wouldn't want to visit a friend and see that they have the same room as you. It should be a reflection of your personality.

I believe another important aspect of design is what kind of feeling the finished room gives off. I think about the smallest details with great measure, making sure that every design element has been taken into consideration. For instance, not only do I think about how a particular fabric will be showcased on a specific piece, but also how that fabric effects the flow of everything else in the room, as well as any adjoining rooms.

Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

A: There actually are two extremely rewarding parts of my job. One is when I hear a client say, "I never would have thought of that or of putting that together the way you did, but I love it. It's exactly what I wanted, but I didn't know how to communicate it to you." This is extremely valuable to me because it means I listened to and understood what my client was saying, as well as what they were not able to express specifically in words.

The second occurs at the end of a project, and involves seeing my client's reaction when they see the room completed. At that point, I know I was able to help them create a room they never dreamed they could have. It is such a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. That is why I love what I do.

Q: How are you able to personalize a design for each client?