All Articles Tagged "interior design"
Work It! Does Your Office Design Work For You Or Against You?
Welcome to the “Work It!” column, where we take a look at business innovation of every kind.
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When we think of the workplace, the cubicle is probably the most common template that comes to mind: high walls that block us off from world, lit by fluorescent lighting, surrounding us in neutral colors. Forward-thinking companies are changing the way they approach the spaces that surround their employees.
Innovation is accepted as the key to an organization’s growth and business minds are paying more attention to the link between environment and creativity. Human creativity, the heart of innovation, just isn’t cultivated in the cubicle. Even the creator of the cubicle, Robert Propst, admitted at the end of his life that his invention was “monolithic insanity.” Research shows that we need to collaborate to mix ideas and come up with new insights and ways of thinking.
Organizations looking to update their offices are creating open floor plans that democratize the seating chart, placing executives in wall-less offices just a few paces away from the new intern. The arrival of millennials in the workplace is also causing a shift toward spaces that encourage socializing. Other trends include:
- Themed Areas - Work zones or neighborhoods that are set aside for tasks like special projects and brainstorming. Having a designated area for innovation helps get employees away from their desks and in a creative mindset.
- Windows and Lighting - The only thing windowless rooms glowing with white fluorescent lights inspire is thoughts of escape. It may be cost-effective, but companies are turning away from this dull design for warmer lighting and floor to ceiling views.
- Communication and Technology - Communication is vital to the sharing and creating ideas. In addition to creating spaces and opportunities for departments to mingle with another, firms are clearing out the cords and integrating wireless technology into desks and workstations.
Of course there are downsides to this take on workplace design, particularly open floor plans. Workers have voiced displeasure with the decrease in privacy and the increase in noise associated with the change. What fosters innovation for one company’s office may not work for another.
Whether you’re redesigning an entire office or just your work area, a successful redesign requires first figuring out how you use the space. Then think about what equipment you use most often, and what business activities take place in that space. From there you can figure out the best arrangement to meet your needs. Here are some tips for creating a space that helps you do your best work:
- Establish Activity Center – Take a cue from the work neighborhoods trend and set up various activity centers for your most common tasks. A reading area that is separate from where you work on your computer can help you focus on the task at hand.
- Bring in Some Color - Bright colors keep us awake while darker colors offer a different, more relaxed stimulant for our creativity. Pick colors that attract your attention and inspire you.
- Cater to You - Do you need a blank canvas with no distractions or something stimulating to motivate you? Design your space with your work style in mind. Don’t forget to surround yourself with work and words that inspire you.
- Embrace Nature - Natural lighting and greenery will ward off any feelings of claustrophobia that creep in after a long project.
- Clear Out Clutter - Use creative storage to make the most of a small space.
- Make Space to Create and Communicate – Chalkboards, white boards, and wall calendars are great tools that allow you to jot down ideas, or let family and coworkers communicate with you without disturbing your flow.
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C. Cleveland covers professional development topics and entrepreneurial rebels who blaze their own career paths. She explores these stories and more on The Red Read, Twitter (@CleveInTheCity) and Facebook (/MyReadIsRed).
For Robin Wilson, Healthy Homes Pay Off
Robin Wilson, President of Robin Wilson Home
Before living “green” was the trendy thing to do, Robin Wilson was working to create living spaces where customers’ wellness and environmental impact were top priorities. Suffering from childhood allergies and asthma while growing up in the eco-friendly town of Austin, TX made healthy living a passion of hers from an early age.
In 2000, she walked away from a successful corporate career to become president of her own interior design firm, Robin Wilson Home, focused on eco-friendly and hypoallergenic products.
Her success as an entrepreneur has exceeded her own dreams. In 2004, her design of the Harlem office of President Bill Clinton was profiled in O magazine. She’s gone on to launch her own textile line, and build a full-fledged lifestyle brand.
I asked Robin about what it takes to have the vision to stay ahead of trends and build a brand that stays true to her mission of wellness.
Madame Noire: Can you describe Robin Wilson Home for those unfamiliar with your brand? What differentiates you from your competitors?
Robin Wilson: Robin Wilson Home is a lifestyle brand with two business areas: interior design and brand licensing. We have worked with some amazing clients across the U.S. to design eco-friendly homes and commercial spaces. Plus, we are the first brand to license our name to eco-friendly kitchen cabinetry sold by over 500 dealers nationwide — and made in the USA by Holiday Kitchens. We also have a line of textiles sold on Bed Bath & Beyond’s website and they will be coming soon to select retail stores.
MN: You had a successful career dealing with environmental issues before you started your firm. Why did you want to become an entrepreneur?
RW: I began my career at the Lower Colorado River Authority, a hydroelectric utility in Austin, and then worked at both a San Francisco and Boston-based consulting firms in their energy groups. These firms taught me best practices for corporate governance — but I also recognized that the founders of these firms were passionate visionaries. Since my family has a history of entrepreneurs, it was easy for me to understand the focus and charisma of those individuals. I made a goal on my bucket list to be an entrepreneur by the time I was 30… and was fortunate to see it come true for the past 13 years.
MN: What did the early days of Robin Wilson Home look like? How did you get your business off the ground?
RW: We had the wonderful opportunity to be self-funded due to a windfall received when the firm I was working for went public due to an IPO. I was the only employee and worked as a project manager and designer. The early days were amazing due to freedom from a desk, the chance to be casual everyday, and new projects through word-of-mouth.
MN: Did you know green living would take off the way that it has?
RW: It was never “green” to me… and I actually refer to our practices as eco-friendly (to your living space and the environment) and wellness-oriented. However, when the articles started to refer to us as in the “green” space, I had to accept the moniker as a way to describe our business. But I remain committed to telling people that the bottom line is “wellness” for you and your lifestyle.
MN: What gave you the courage to pursue a specialty that wasn’t mainstream at the time?
Robin: I live by the motto “What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?” So my focus has never been about what is mainstream but very much about what I believe is good for my friends and family.
9 VIP Services Worth Spending A Little Extra Money On This Year
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Most of us live our lives on a budget, trying not to spend money frivolously on things we don’t need. But every once in a while, there is a VIP service that we should invest a little extra money in.
Please note the use of the words “every once in while.” If you’re not living large, you shouldn’t pretend to be. However, sometimes bringing in a professional to assess your situation, offer advice, or take care of a big job for you is money well spent. By parting with a little extra money now, you could be setting yourself up for something better later.
So without further ado, let’s take a look at nine things you might want to consider spending a little coin on in 2013. Any other items you would suggest? Let us know in the comments.
Home Decor Tips – Home Savvy
About This Episode
In this episode we’ll show you how to add style to your walls by following our handy tips.
Sponge Painting is a great decorating technique to camouflage any imperfections on the wall surface.
Choose three colors, in order to make certain wall has proper depth. For your base coat, Select Behr Premium Plus Ultra – This interior paint is both paint & primer in one, and has advanced stain-blocking capabilities.
Wainscoting dresses up the walls in your home, by adding unique detail and gives an architectural touch.
Ceiling Medallions – You can paint them to match any home decor and personalize by adding family photos.
Hang your work of art by, using paper cut-outs in the same size of the pieces that you will mount. Adjust paper cut-outs, in order to find the right balance and focal point before you affix a medallion to the wall.
Use a lighting fixture to accent your sponge wall. The best way to do this is by using a Wall Sconce.
The Home Depot Style Guide is here. It’s your inspiration resource filled with trends, tips and instructions that will guide you from start to finish. Brush up on the latest paint finishes, hear what the style bloggers are excited about, and buy anything you need without a trip to the store. Find it in the iTunes store, or log on here: http://styleguide.homedepot.com/
WANT MORE HOME SAVVY? WATCH THESE EPISODES:
SEASON 2
- Episode 1: How to Install a Bathroom Vanity
- Episode 2: How to Install a Bathroom Faucet
- Episode 3: How to Save Money on Your Home Energy Bills
- Episode 4: Home Decor Tips
- Episode 5: How To Decorate For The Holidays
SEASON 1
How To Decorate An Eco-Friendly Baby Nursery
About This Episode
We’re back with Interior Designer Robin Wilson as she takes us on an exclusive tour of her eco-friendly baby nursery. Be sure to check all all of Robin’s nursery tips when planning for your baby nursery!
About Robin Wilson
For more information on Robin Wilson Home, log onto http://robinwilsonhome.com/
About Karyn Parsons
Karyn Parsons is best known as the character “Hilary Banks” on the long-running television show, “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” Today she is a wife and mother of two. Parsons is also the Founder and President of the Sweet Blackberry foundation after being inspired by the true tale of a determined slave and the remarkable lengths he travelled to find his freedom. While growing up, Parsons’ mother, a librarian in the Black Resource Center of a library in South Central Los Angeles, would share stories of African-American accomplishment with her daughter. A mother and activist, Karyn created Sweet Blackberry to use the power of stories to inspire youth. Follow her on Twitter @Karyn_Parsons.
Want More Mommy In Chief? Watch these episodes:
Season 2
- Episode 1: Are You A Good Enough Mother?
- Episode 2: New Motherhood and Balancing A Busy Work Life
- Episode 3: How to Decorate an Eco-Friendly Baby Nursery
- Episode 4: Foodie, Nicole Friday on Kids and Career
- Episode 5: Melissa Beck, From Hollywood to Stay At Home Mom
- Episode 6: Single Mom in The City
- Episode 7: Mommy Mogul and Marketing Wiz Monique Jackson at Home With Her Boys
- Episode 8: Beauty Maven Jodie Patterson Talks Four-Day Work Week for Moms
- Episode 9: Tonya Lewis Lee on Motherhood and the Importance of Women’s Health
Season 1
- Episode 1: Back 2 School
- Episode 2: Happy Halloween
- Episode 3: Socially Responsible Kids
- Episode 4: Money Talks
- Episode 5: Keeping Families Healthy
- Episode 6: Thanksgiving Madness
- Episode 7: Highlights and Best Moments
- Episode 8: Stylish Moms
- Episode 9: Best Apps for Moms
- Episode 10: Socialite Kids
- Episode 11: Hair Talk with AfroBella
- Episode 12: Happy New Year!
New Motherhood After 40 and Balancing A Busy Work Life
About This Episode
We travel to the home of eco-friendly interior designer Robin Wilson and speak with her as she preps for the arrival of her very first baby and tells us how she will manage her thriving business as a new mom.
About Robin Wilson
For more information on Robin Wilson Home, log onto http://robinwilsonhome.com/
About Karyn Parsons
Karyn Parsons is best known as the character “Hilary Banks” on the long-running television show, “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.” Today she is a wife and mother of two. Parsons is also the Founder and President of the Sweet Blackberry foundation after being inspired by the true tale of a determined slave and the remarkable lengths he travelled to find his freedom. While growing up, Parsons’ mother, a librarian in the Black Resource Center of a library in South Central Los Angeles, would share stories of African-American accomplishment with her daughter. A mother and activist, Karyn created Sweet Blackberry to use the power of stories to inspire youth. Follow her on Twitter @Karyn_Parsons.
Want More Mommy In Chief? Watch these episodes:
Season 2
- Episode 1: Are You A Good Enough Mother?
- Episode 2: New Motherhood and Balancing A Bust Work Life
- Episode 3: How to Decorate an Eco-Friendly Baby Nursery
- Episode 4: Foodie, Nicole Friday on Kids and Career
- Episode 5: Melissa Beck, From Hollywood to Stay At Home Mom
- Episode 6: Single Mom in The City
- Episode 7: Mommy Mogul and Marketing Wiz Monique Jackson at Home With Her Boys
- Episode 8: Beauty Maven Jodie Patterson Talks Four-Day Work Week for Moms
- Episode 9: Tonya Lewis Lee on Motherhood and the Importance of Women’s Health
Season 1
- Episode 1: Back 2 School
- Episode 2: Happy Halloween
- Episode 3: Socially Responsible Kids
- Episode 4: Money Talks
- Episode 5: Keeping Families Healthy
- Episode 6: Thanksgiving Madness
- Episode 7: Highlights and Best Moments
- Episode 8: Stylish Moms
- Episode 9: Best Apps for Moms
- Episode 10: Socialite Kids
- Episode 11: Hair Talk with AfroBella
- Episode 12: Happy New Year!
This Nationally Recognized Designer is Changing the Way People Think About “Home”
Meet Robin Wilson: Robin Wilson is more than a recognized eco-friendly designer, who has appeared at media outlets TV One, CNN, Pilot Magazine, Insight Magazine, Good Housekeeping and Black Enterprise. She is an author and the first woman to have a custom, eco-friendly kitchen line sold at over 500 dealers nationwide. Committed to “giving back,” she worked with Hearst Magazines to help rebuild a home damaged by Hurricane Katrina. Named an ambassador to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Robin Wilson is also a wellness expert who personally suffers from asthma and allergies and educates consumers about such issues. She appears regularly on the speaker’s circuit, on television and in print with commentary on eco-healthy lifestyles.
MN: When did your family start working in the real estate industry and what were some of the most memorable real estate moments your family was involved with?
RW: My family started working in real estate with my great grandfather. His father provided initial funds for the purchase of rental properties – and he focused on a few commercial spaces and mostly rental properties, sometimes called “shotgun shacks” that were used by oil field workers. In essence, these were studio apartments with a driveway in front, and the workers moved frequently. My grandfather and mom continued the tradition and maintained rental properties over the years. One of the most memorable moments occurred when I was around 7 years old – and my grandfather asked me what color to paint a property. I answered “Easter egg colors” and he did the shutters and trim – which left me with a feeling that painting in 3-D was a lot better than a coloring book!
MN: What were you doing before you started Robin Wilson Home in 2000?
RW: I started my entrepreneurial venture after making a transition out of corporate America in 1999. My corporate career began at a leading management consulting firm and ended at one of the top executive search firms – when they had an IPO, I received a windfall. Less than a year later, I started the firm, beginning as a construction project management firm, until clients began to request that we diversify by creating a design team.
MN: The housing market burst in late 2007. Tell us about two to three key challenges the market shift brought to your business.
RW: In 2007 when the housing market burst, we had a small dip in our revenue but we were fortunate that people began to renovate their spaces. However in 2008, by the time banks froze credit access to homeowners, we began to see a significant loss of revenue as many people began to lose their jobs or lines of credit.
MN: As a business owner, what strategies did you incorporate to address and overcome those challenges?
RW: The key for all businesses today is diversification. The only way to overcome a challenge is to be more strategic and to focus on diversification. We have survived by licensing our brand awareness through speaking engagements to discuss wellness, asthma & allergy issues across the country.
Why Office Decor Matters
(Entrepreneur) — How a business furnishes its work space can define the company culture and help its employees thrive. Or not. Let’s not overthink this one. In fact, says Mark Montgomery, founder of FLOthinkery and entrepreneur-in-residence at Nashville, Tenn.-based VC firm Claritas Capital, a simple rule of thumb is to allow common sense to prevail. “When I go into a startup burning $300,000 a month, and they’ve got posh offices with great furniture, I immediately think the leadership team’s priorities are in the wrong place,” he says. “On the other side, I don’t think you should have your people sitting on cardboard boxes at a card table. It really is a matter of being practical.”
Interior Designers to Keep Your Eye On
(HuffPost BlackVoices) — Interior designers are a dime a dozen these days. Alongside the foodie craze, living beautifully has spawned a movement of its own. And while black designers have remained, for the most part, a blip on the shelter magazine radar — arguably the pinnacle of design acclaim — some are actually making a way in the largely white-dominated field. Perhaps it’s the new wave of young, fresh-thinking digital publications they have to thank. Matchbook magazine, for example, made a bold step toward diversity this month, featuring lawyer-turned-entrepreneur Jeanine Hayes and stylist Manvi Drona-Hidalgo in a colorful spread at Hayes’ Philadelphia home.
How to Make Your Home Gorgeous (Just Like You)
Your home decor should definitely be a reflection of your personality, but sometimes the idea of interior decorating seems a bit daunting…especially if you watch all those design shows on television. Can you make that fabulous headboard without the circular saw and nail gun? Well, have no fear. AOL Black Voices is here to help! They have a few tips to get you started on having a home as cute as you.
What was your latest DIY interior design project?
