AH & L’s Brianna & Luis

So, Brianna…

Q: What inspired you to become a designer?

A: Growing up, I was always fascinated by how spaces came together as well as fashion. I grew up rearranging furniture at our house every week, building Barbie houses from scratch, building communities on sims for hours and sketching floor plans on graph paper. But what really solidified my decision was when I had the opportunity to do an internship in high school with an interior designer. After that, I knew that’s what I wanted to do with my life- making people happy by helping them create beautiful spaces.

Q: How has your design style evolved since you started?

A: As years go on, and trends come and go, it is natural for your design style to shift and change. I think if we are not changing, we are not growing. Evolving design styles are a positive sign of creative growth. But, while it is important to embrace evolution in your design style, it is equally crucial to maintain authenticity and stay true to your core identity as a designer. With that being said, I believe my design style has been constantly evolving with the ongoing design trends through the years but making subtle nods with an eclectic twist. I went through everything from tone-tone pink phase, boho phase, modern industrial and art deco phase. Currently, I believe I have a good balance of timeless classics with nodes of retro, accents of color and texture. I love a good balance between old, new and versatility. I believe in being flexible and being able to adapt to different styles or needs.

Q: How do you balance creativity with practicality in your designs?

A: I think the first step is understanding what your client(s) needs, vision and purpose for their space. Second, determine your overall design constraints so you know your boundaries and limitations within the space and/or project. I believe in viewing design constraints as opportunities to find inventive solutions instead of obstacles. I think the next step is finding a functional and pleasing layout. Focusing on balance from color, shape, position, texture, and eye direction. Then after functionality is defined, I like to get creative with intertwining the client’s vision with my personal touches to make the space feel like home.

Q: Aside from design, what are your other passions?

A: Lately, I am always working but I have been finding time to incorporate more time for myself. I enjoy traveling to other places and exploring with friends and family. Locally here in Texas, I love going to a good food festival and trying new restaurants that pop up around the metroplex. My all-time favorite thing to do is thrift. I love a good bargain and treasure hunt.

 

So, Luis…

Q: What do you enjoy the most about the design process?

A: What I love about the design process is that every client presents a new challenge and therefore each project is different.  I consider myself a technical designer. I love researching for the best design solution.  I enjoy learning about materials, application, performance, and technical specifications. I like learning how to take a design element and making it feasible for our client!

Q: How do you keep in touch with interior design current and upcoming trends?

A: I attend many industry events, CEU classes, as well as attending markets.  I like trends, but I do not base an entire design around them. I approach my designs with longevity and performance over time in mind.   It is easier to change accessories and art than an entire sofa due to a trending color!

Q: What is your favorite design style and why?

A: As far as what to execute for a client, I cannot play favorites!  Personally, my home is in the mid-century style, but if it wasn’t because my spouse and family like to have furniture, it would be Shaker. Shaker is about living within purity of the architecture and it’s simplicity, utility, and craftsmanship.  I love the chairs on wall pegs!

Q: Aside from design, what are your other passions?

A: I love to visit museums. Doesn’t matter the location, subject matter, or  size of the collection.  I like to spend hours reading, walking without feeling rushed, focusing on details, and learning something new.  Museums is like time travel from the past to the future and everything in between. Everyone must visit the ESSE Purse Museum in Little Rock, AR!