Read our interview below and explore her website.

SLD: What is eDesign and why is it a good idea right now?

RA: The ability for an interior designer to work with a client remotely has been around for several years. Digital platforms, paid for by the designer, allow for the drawing of floor plans, the creation of concept boards, and ultimately the final design to be shared directly and remotely, with clients. They link directly to the specific products chosen for the room design such that when the design is complete, the client can move forward with ease to make the purchases. This is a great option for someone who is looking for design assistance but rather do the final styling themselves. eDesign is more or less a roadmap to a beautiful space. 

In today’s environment, everything has shifted to virtual, including the design and styling of home interiors. Due to Safe at Home, retailers have amped up promotion of their free interior design services and private interior designers are jumping on board. 

I have had the platform for eDesign in place all along though during Safe at Home, I am offering interior design packages at special rates. The advantage to using an individual designer over a free service by a retailer is that first, I provide personalized attention and importantly, I can source furniture and accessories from different places, not just one retail store, and I tailor those choices to the client’s style and budget. 

SLD: What kinds of work can people do in their homes now during Safe at Home?

RA: Great question! The first thing to do is to become aware of your surroundings, making a mental note or list of what is working for you/your family within your home and what isn’t. Do this from the perspective of function. Then start to physically “edit” your stuff, yes I am referring to Marie Kondo or whichever method of decluttering works for you. I just went through this process last week and do it at least once a year, if not twice. Initially, the method of reducing by category worked well though I also find room-by-room to work for me. Bring your home mentally and physically to a place where you can now make changes. Determine your needs, little by little, room by room or all at once! 

Next, when you are ready, consider an interior design consultation and together we will explore ambiance, mood, function and colors and you’ll be on the way to a fresh and updated home. 

SLD: What would be the benefits to starting a project now?

RA: Getting started with anything new is almost always a challenge. There are distractions, reasons to delay; but when we do start or make a change, we so often wonder what took us so long! Now is a great time to start as we know our world will be different when we come through this crisis. We may not have that crystal ball to predict how things will be different, we simply know they will be. So why not have a fresh update to your home environment as a solid start to whatever is to come?

SLD: What made you decide to specialize in Aging-in-Place? How can your clients benefit from your expertise in this area?

RA: I was drawn to Universal Design and Aging-in-Place because of my background in medical education; interior design is my encore career. I love the idea of helping individuals make their homes functional and safe to stay at home as long as possible, regardless of what health issues life may challenge us with. Couple that with my education and experience in home design and all of a sudden, beauty is added to functional and safe. To me, it is a win/win. I call this specialty Livable Design.

Millions of Americans are living longer and more active lives and the idea of a home base without worries, is most appealing. Livable design reduces the need for future modifications, providing the safety and security needed to live in and enjoy your home as long as possible. It is meant for those planning to stay at home as the decades pass, however it should also be noted that homes with universal design features have greater market appeal. 

With an interior designer on board to guide changes and choices, livable design features are built in, appearing simply as a beautiful space.