Advertise on podcast: Interior Design San Diego - Presented by ASID San Diego

In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with the incredible Anjum Razvi, founder and principal of Razvi Design Studio, to explore her dynamic 40+ year design journey from architecture in India to boutique hospitality design in San Diego. Anjum shares how motherhood, resilience, and a passion for creative freedom shaped the evolution of her studio—and how a single ASID showcase bathroom led to her biggest project to date: the iconic Sofia Hotel. If you’ve ever wondered how small residential jobs can lead to big opportunities, or what it takes to transition into hospitality design, this episode is for you. 🌟 Highlights:Anjum’s early spark: Following her architect cousin on site visits in IndiaFinding design footing: Navigating identity, licensing, and inspiration in a new countryFrom freelance to founder: How flexibility and intuition shaped her firm’s growthLanding the Sofia Hotel: A career-defining opportunity born from an ASID showcaseHospitality design today: Tech integration, sustainability, and business-minded creativityTeaching and mentorship: Why sharing knowledge gives just as much as it gets 🛎️ Key Takeaways:Design exposure matters – Participating in ASID showcases directly led to Anjum’s hospitality work.Hospitality is business – Great design must align with guest experience and the owner's bottom line.Stay adaptable – Whether designing 200 unique hotel rooms or shifting to tech-integrated spaces, flexibility is key.Your background is a strength – Anjum’s architectural foundation and global perspective set her apart.Mentorship multiplies impact – Teaching at NewSchool and mentoring ASID members keeps her connected and inspired. About Anjum Razvi President | Founder. Anjum Razvi has a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, is a professional member of ASID and is certified by CCIDC and NCIDQ. Her design firm provides interior design services that include residential properties, hospitality properties, commercial businesses and office spaces. Razvi Design Studio specializes in guiding clients through the endless decisions required for new home construction or an extensive architectural remodel. The designers skillfully detail materials and furnishings to create a unique finished style that is both functional and beautiful. Design expertise includes whole homes, kitchens, baths, custom built-ins, material specifications and more. The design firm provides aesthetic and pragmatic design solutions for public areas and guest rooms of boutique hotel properties, both historical and new. No matter what type of project, they specialize in the intelligent integration of architecture and interior design to create an extraordinary environment. Additionally, Anjum has been...

In this solo episode, host Rachel Larraine Crawford pulls back the curtain on one of her favorite community-driven events: ASID San Diego’s Spring Spruce Up. Now in her third year of participating, Rachel shares how this one-hour consultation event has helped her generate real leads, deepen community ties, and give back in a meaningful way. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just stepping into the field, this episode is packed with practical advice for making the most of your Spruce Up experience—from tools to bring, how to prep, and the key to turning consultations into long-term clients. What You'll Learn: What the Spring Spruce Up is (and why it matters)Rachel’s tried-and-true prep and follow-up strategyWhat types of consultations to expect (spoiler: it’s not all paint picks!)How AI tools like Plaud can streamline your follow-upsThe power of bringing students along for the ride Key Takeaways: 20% of Rachel’s consultations have turned into full projectsFollowing up within 24 hours makes all the differenceTangible tools like paint kits and business cards go a long way—especially with older clientsRecording your sessions (with permission!) can simplify your follow-up workflowIt’s a fundraiser—but also a powerful lead generator ASID Spring Spruce Up Requirements: Must be an ASID member in good standingMinimum of 3 years of professional design experienceAvailable March 1 – April 31, 2026Sign up deadline 1/31/26Sign up link. Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the...

Today on Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Crawford sits down with Lauri Howell, a designer, community-builder, and longtime ASID leader who has navigated big career shifts — from running her own design firm, to leading chapter boards, to her current role connecting design professionals with resources at Sunset West. Lauri dives deep into why community truly matters in design, how leadership transitions shape us, and what the future holds for designers at all stages. 💡 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Lauri’s Path Into Design Lauri shares her winding journey from communications school (thanks, Mom!) to finding her people at the Art Institute of San Diego, and how her thesis project turned into her first real professional opportunity. ✨ Finding Community Through ASID Hear how a single volunteer signup led Lauri into leadership — from event chair roles to chapter president. She breaks down how getting involved early can instantly transform your experience from outsider to insider. 📍 Region-to-Region Design Culture Lauri has worked across San Diego, Orange County, and Arizona. She reflects on the subtle cultural shifts between regions and elevates San Diego for its sophisticated, collaborative design vibe that sometimes goes under the radar. 🤝 Collaboration Over Ego A core theme of this episode: design isn’t done in isolation. Lauri underscores why collaboration — with peers, industry partners, manufacturers, and clients — is the backbone of successful work and stronger design communities. ↻ Leadership Lessons Through Challenges From near-board-collapse moments to unexpectedly busy events, Lauri shares candid stories on resilience, pivoting, and why persistence wins in leadership and design. 🎓 What ASID Needs for the Next Gen Lauri offers actionable insight into how ASID (and industry at large) can better serve emerging designers — from pathways to licensure to business fundamentals that go beyond cocktail-hour networking. 🏡 Sunset West & Designer Partnerships Learn what drew Lauri to her current role at Sunset West, how the brand uniquely supports designers (like no minimums and quick lead times), and how manufacturer–designer partnerships are evolving to be more transparent, educational, and collaborative. ⚡ Confidence & Creative Identity Lauri wraps with an empowering message for designers: embrace your unique skill set, trust your voice, and recognize the depth of capabilities you already bring to the table. 📅 Key TakeawaysVolunteer roles are career accelerators — you don’t have to wait for opportunity; step in and the community will meet you there.Leadership is about recreating spaces where others feel connected, not about titles or ego.San Diego designers are world-class — and it’s time that reputation gets louder.Emerging professionals need more than events — they need tools, pathways, and business literacy.Partnerships with manufacturers are strongest when built on education, transparency, and mutual support.Confidence in your craft is as essential as technical skills. 🎯 Who This Episode Is For✔ Emerging designers or recent graduates ✔ Mid‑career professionals looking to deepen community connections ✔ ASID members or industry partners ✔ Designers navigating...

In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Lorraine Crawford is joined by Laura Abrams, founder and creative force behind Laura Abrams Design. Laura shares her journey from early design instincts to building a boutique design studio rooted in “livable luxury” — a philosophy centered on comfort, function, and elevated living. Laura opens up about what it takes to run a small design firm with intention, how to shape meaningful client experiences, and how she maintains creativity, balance, and joy in her business. This conversation dives deep into systems, process, boundaries, burnout, and evolution — offering practical insights for designers at every stage of their career. 🎧 What You’ll Learn 1. Defining Your Design Identity Laura describes her core design ethos — livable luxury — where beauty meets practical living, especially for families with pets and kids. She discusses discovering her creative calling early and pursuing interior design with purpose from the very beginning. 2. Intentional Business Choices Instead of building a large firm, Laura chose a small, personal studio to protect flexibility, quality, and client relationships — especially important once she started a family. 3. Team, Hiring & Scale Laura talks about finding the right team members, why design education mattered in her hiring decisions, and the moment she knew she needed help to sustain her business. 4. Defining Success on Your Terms Success, for Laura, has shifted from accolades and publication to quality of life — like taking a two‑week vacation knowing her business hums without her. 5. A Client Experience Built Around Trust & Process Laura walks through her three‑stage client journey (Kickoff → Concept → Detailed Design) that helps keep projects calm, clear, and collaborative. She discusses how setting expectations, communication channels, and deliverables upfront creates strong relationships and better outcomes. 6. Burnout, Recalibration, and Coaching Laura shares how COVID pushed her to the brink, and how working with both a business coach and life coach helped her recalibrate, establish healthier rhythms, and sustain creativity. 7. How Laura Fills Her Creative Well From time in nature to trade shows and exhibitions like Salone del Mobile Milano, Laura reveals how she intentionally refuels her imagination. 8. Hard Lessons & Smart Systems Important takeaways include having rock‑solid contracts, flat‑fee pricing models that respect time and scope, payment boundaries, and clear communication to avoid confusion downstream. About Laura: Laura Abrams Design, Inc. is a full service, boutique interior design firm located in San Diego, CA. LAD has designed projects all over the United States and abroad including new construction and remodeling. Lead designer Laura Abrams is a National Certification for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam-certified designer and active member of the American Society of Interior Designers. With over 20 years of experience, Laura studied Interior Design at Florida State University and the Interior Design Institute in Milan, Italy. She has won multiple design awards and has been recognized in magazines including the Wall Street Journal, San Diego Home and Garden, Florida Design, Modern Luxury and more. LAD, Inc. specializes in residential design and is passionate about guiding and educating their clients through the journey of home design. Laura’s design style is livable luxury and the spaces she provides are calming, inviting and practical for everyday living. She spends a great deal of time getting to know her clients so their homes are truly an extension of who they are. Her goal is to create spaces that bring joy, calm and connection through combining her clients’ needs with her design expertise....

In this special episode, we’re flipping the mic! Interior design student Lynn Salbato from Mesa College joins me for a candid Q&A that started as a school assignment—and turned into one of my favorite conversations about business, balance, and building a career in design. We cover everything from how I landed my first client (hi, Thumbtack!) to what I really wish someone told me before starting my own firm. Lynn brings the smart questions—and I’m sharing it all: the messy parts, the wins, and why community and mentorship (hello, ASID!) have mattered most along the way. Whether you’re a student, emerging designer, or just curious what happens behind the scenes of a boutique design studio, this episode is full of real talk and real tools. 👂 What you’ll hear in this episode: How I made the leap from showrooms to solo designerMy philosophy on pricing, flat fees, and charging what you’re worthA business mistake I made recently—and what it taught meWhy having a mentor (or becoming one) changes everythingThe role ASID San Diego has played in my career—and how to get involved now ✨ “If you’re not being invited to the table—make your own table.” About Lynn Salbato: Lynn Salbato is currently completing her Certificate in Interior Design at San Diego Mesa College, a path inspired by a lifelong love for the visual world and a desire to create evocative atmospheres. Working alongside her husband, she focuses on Interior Design for Masterworks Construction Co. and serves as a Realtor with Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, helping homeowners recognize the potential in a property and translate that vision into reality. When she isn’t focusing on her design work, Lynn is a volunteer for the San Diego Architectural Foundation’s annual Open House (OH!) event and an active member of Toastmasters International. She leverages this multi-faceted expertise to help her clients navigate the entire process of purchasing, designing, and bringing their projects to life. Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: [email protected]

Design Trends vs. Design Truths: What Really Matters in 2026Hosted by Rachel Larraine Crawford, ASID Allied Happy New Year, design community! In this solo episode, Rachel kicks off 2026 with a fresh (and grounding) perspective on what’s actually worth paying attention to—beyond the “what’s in / what’s out” lists flooding your feed every January. You’ll hear the trends showing up in meaningful ways this year, a handful of unexpected aesthetic shifts worth watching, and the timeless design truths that never go out of style. Rachel also shares ASID San Diego chapter updates, how to get involved as a member or sponsor, and a simple design prompt to carry into the new year. Chapter Updates + Save the Date Rachel opens with gratitude for ASID San Diego members, volunteers, and industry partners who helped make the chapter’s programming, events, and collaborations possible. Sponsorship opportunities for 2026 are still available. If you or your company want to support programming, education, or outreach, reach out to ASID San Diego’s president: [email protected] Next Chapter MeetingJanuary 21 (third Wednesday of the month) at Visions Museum of Textile Art (Liberty Station) Topic: Custom Window Treatments — a frequently overlooked design element with major aesthetic impact and profit potential. Rachel teases a conversation on elevating projects through custom solutions, client relationships, motorization/tech, and where craftsmanship still matters in the age of AI. To RSVP / attend: [email protected] (Membership Chair: Kendra) What’s Trending in 2026 (The Meaningful Shifts) Rachel breaks down the trends designers are already noticing—and why they matter beyond surface style. 1) Earthy + Moody Color Palettes A continued move away from gray/white toward sun-washed clay, moss green, dusty rose and other grounded hues.At the same time: a resurgence of deep forest green, inky navy, charcoal, oxblood, even black-on-black for cocoon-like, luxe spaces.Takeaway: These palettes aren’t loud—they’re emotionally intelligent, creating sanctuary and depth. 2) Texture-Forward, Sensory Materials Luxury is shifting from “shiny” to tactile: plaster, brushed limestone, honed stone, character woods, coarse linen, chunky textiles. Takeaway: Designers are specifying for the body as much as the eye—helping clients feel more grounded in a post-digital world. 3) Reimagined Nostalgia Not literal replicas—more like memory translated: curved cabinetry, fluted glass, low-slung seating, subtle checkerboard, with nods to the 70s and 90s (without going full theme). Takeaway: Nostalgia becomes a doorway to storytelling and comfort. 4) Wellness as the Baseline Wellness is no longer an add-on. Expect more: Circadian lightingAcoustic zoningAir quality upgradesLow-VOC / non-toxic materialsNature integration (plants, water, natural light)Takeaway: Clients are asking how a space feels, supports stress levels, sleep, and energy—not just how it looks. 5) Personalization Over “Perfect” The catalog-perfect interior is giving way to homes with soul: handmade pieces, layered art, heirlooms, mixed metals/woods, story-driven choices. Takeaway: Meaning beats status. Local makers and artist collaborations become a standout value-add. Unexpected Trends Worth Watching Rachel shares a few emerging shifts that may not be on the usual “top 10” lists. Bold aesthetic fusion (playful, cross-cultural, eclectic “attitude” aesthetics seen on platforms like Pinterest)Wallpaper in unexpected places (ceilings, cabinets, closets, mural-scale, textured coverings, narrative prints as

What if instead of winging it into 2026, you actually carved out time to design your business—and your life—with clarity, calm, and creative purpose? In this solo episode, I’m walking you through the exact process I use to plan my year—not just for projects and profits, but for alignment. This isn’t a rigid goal-setting workshop or a “new year, new you” kind of vibe. It’s a cozy, journal-in-hand moment to reflect on what worked (and what didn’t) in 2025, dream into what’s possible for 2026, and make a plan that feels like you. Whether you're on a walk, between site visits, or curled up on the couch, this is your permission slip to slow down, zoom out, and reconnect with your vision as an independent designer. In This Episode, You’ll Journal Through: Your favorite design moments (and the ones that made you want to quit)What actually brought in revenue—and what drained your energyHow to design your calendar around your life (not the other way around)A vision for 2026 that feels exciting and sustainableWho you need to become to lead your business with more ease Here’s a Little Homework (the fun kind!): Print a blank 2026 calendarPour some tea, or coffeeHit pause after each prompt to journal it outUse this session as your personal planning retreat You deserve a business that supports your life—not one that consumes it. Let this episode be your starting point. And hey, if you love it or have your own rituals for planning the year ahead, send me a message [email protected] . I’d truly love to hear what you’re dreaming up for 2026. Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: [email protected]

In this student-focused episode of the Interior Design San Diego podcast, we sit down with Ximena Harmer, a sales manager and active ASID San Diego industry partner, to talk about what it really looks like to build a career on the sales side of the design world. Ximena shares how she found her way into the industry, what designers actually look for in product reps, and how students and emerging professionals can start building relationships now that will support them for years to come. If you’ve ever wondered how industry partners fit into the design ecosystem—or how to show up confidently at your next ASID event—this conversation is for you. Meet the Guest: Ximena HarmerWith over 12 years of experience in the Kitchen and Bath industry, Ximena Harmer has developed a true passion for cabinetry and carpentry. Specializing in custom designs, she’s worked on high-profile projects, including national media campaigns with major home improvement networks. Ximena has found her perfect role as a Sales Manager at the Home Depot Design Center, where she leads a team of product partners to help builders and designers bring their clients’ dream spaces to life. Whether it's finding the perfect product for the project or providing expert guidance, Ximena combines her deep industry knowledge with a personal commitment to making every renovation project a success. In This Episode, You’ll Learn:What a Sales Manager Actually Does in the Design WorldHow Ximena supports designers, firms, and projects—and why strong relationships between designers and reps are so important.How Students Can Confidently Connect with Industry PartnersPractical tips for reaching out on LinkedIn, following up after events, and starting conversations even if you feel “too new” to the industry.Making the Most of ASID San Diego EventsWhy showing up—whether it’s a monthly meeting or the holiday party—can be a game changer for your network and career growth.Balancing Career, Community, and Home LifeXimena shares how being a parent influences the way she chooses events, manages her time, and gives herself permission to be present where she is.Networking for Introverts (and Real People)Simple, doable ways to connect that don’t require being “on” all the time or knowing everyone in the room. Connect with XimenaXimena invites listeners to connect and continue the conversation: www.linkedin.com/in/ximena-harmer About our Student Host, Theresa Staine: From an early age, I knew I was destined for a creative path. As a child, I loved sketching and painting landscapes, and that early love for art naturally grew into a passion for design. My journey into interior architecture has been one of both risk and reward. Before entering the design world, I spent a decade in New York City building a successful career as a buyer for major retailers. While that experience strengthened my business sense and attention to detail, I always felt a creative pull that couldn’t be ignored. Returning to my artistic roots, I decided to pursue my master’s degree in Interior Architecture at the Academy of Art University, where I’ve found a true sense of purpose. I’m deeply passionate about using design to support healthy urbanism, community development and sustainability. I enjoy creating spaces that inspire connection, encourage movement, and foster well-being. As an active individual who values a healthy lifestyle, I believe thoughtful design can profoundly influence the way we live, work, and thrive. Continuing to learn and grow in this field excites me every day. My goal is to combine my creative vision, design education, and business background to make a lasting impact...

In this solo episode of Interior Design San Diego, host and designer Rachel Larraine Crawford speaks directly to the ASID San Diego community about what is unfolding in the chapter and what it really means to build a brand that feels as good as your best designed space. Rachel opens with exciting chapter announcements for the year ahead including travel, study, and community events then guides you into a heartfelt conversation about brand, intuition, and identity as a designer. She also shares details about her live workshop, Designing From The Inside Out Build Your Brand With Soul Style And Intuition, happening this evening at Pacific Sales in San Diego. This episode is a gentle warm up for the workshop and a powerful reflection on whether your brand truly feels like you. In this episode you will hear • Current ASID San Diego updates and opportunities for involvement in twenty twenty six • Details about upcoming chapter programming including education, travel, and celebrations • Why your brand is more than a logo, color palette, or social grid • How branding functions as an energetic imprint that people feel when they experience your work • Rachel's personal story of shifting from a safe generic brand to one that reflects her moody magnetic spiritual style • Three reflection questions to help you reconnect with your design identity and values • An invitation to craft a brand that feels like your favorite outfit and your favorite room at the same time • What to expect from the Designing From The Inside Out workshop and who it is perfect for Reflection prompts from the episode You may want to journal on these questions after you listen • When someone walks into a space you designed and it is working perfectly, how do you want them to feel in their body • When someone works with you as a client, what do you want to be known for beyond the deliverables • What parts of you have you been hiding or toning down in your brand Events and links mentioned ASID San Diego Big Holiday Bash Wednesday December 17 at 5pm Location MSI Surfaces Miramar Road San Diego Note Tickets must be purchased in advance there are no tickets at the door • ASID member health insurance program: Open enrollment for the twenty twenty six plan year runs from November 1 through December 15 Design Gems trip to Milan - April 19 through April 25 2026 Includes Salone del Mobile marble quarries in Carrara time in Florence and exclusive workshop visits Tickets here Workshop Designing From The Inside Out Build Your Brand With Soul, Style And Intuition Thursday December 4 2025 at 5:30pm Location Pacific Sales San Diego Registration link Stay Connected: Want to get involved? Email our Admin Arnaz: [email protected] Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on a href="https://instagram.com/asid_sandiego" rel="noopener

In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with hospitality designer, educator, and ASID leader Shannon Rice to explore how design can literally change the trajectory of a family’s life. Shannon shares her journey from 20-year-old receptionist at a flooring company to hospitality-focused designer, business owner, long-time instructor at Design Institute, and past president of ASID San Diego. From there, the conversation dives into the heart work: Humble Design—a nonprofit that fully furnishes homes for individuals and families emerging from homelessness. You’ll hear how ASID San Diego partnered with Humble Design, why thoughtfully designed spaces help break the cycle of homelessness, and the many tangible ways designers, students, and industry partners can get involved. In This Episode, We Talk About:Shannon’s winding path into interior design, from cocktail waitress and receptionist to hospitality designer and firm ownerWhat it’s really like to work in hospitality, franchise hotels, and property improvement plans (PIPs)How teaching at Design Institute fuels Shannon’s love of mentoring emerging designersShannon’s ASID journey—from student member to president, and now Humble Design liaisonThe origin story of Humble Design and why furnished homes dramatically reduce the rate of families returning to homelessnessRachel’s personal connection to housing insecurity and why this work feels so tender and urgentWhat happens on a Day of Joy install—from warehouse prep to the “welcome home” revealThe emotional impact of kids seeing their very first bed and a space made just for themHow ASID designers can leverage projects to support Humble through furniture donations and moreVolunteer warehouse days, student involvement, and upcoming donation drives in San Diego and North CountySimple ways to support Humble at ASID’s annual holiday party and beyond Key TakeawaysDesign truly impacts lives. A thoughtfully furnished home isn’t just “pretty”—it can be the difference between a family maintaining housing or slipping back into homelessness.Humble Design is changing the cycle. Families who receive Humble’s services almost never return to homelessness, in part because they finally have a space that feels safe, dignified, and worth fighting for.Community over competition in action. ASID San Diego’s partnership with Humble shows what happens when designers, students, and industry partners rally around a shared cause.Designers have unique leverage. We’re already inside clients’ homes and job sites—redirecting gently-used furnishings to Humble is a powerful, practical way to give back.There’s a place for everyone. From warehouse volunteering and student internships to donation drives and fundraisers, there are meaningful roles for designers at every stage of their career. How Designers & Students Can Get InvolvedRedirect client furnishings to Humble instead of sending them to landfillASID designers can request free pick-ups for qualifying donations via Humble’s websiteJoin quarterly warehouse volunteer days through ASID San Diego sign-upsSupport Day of Joy installs and annual fundraisers (like the bathroom refresh package)Students can seek out Humble-adjacent internships or volunteer hours through SDSU, DI, Mesa, Palomar & moreBring a gift card (Target, Walmart, TJ Maxx, etc.) to the ASID holiday party to help cover critical “one-off” items like cribs and baby...

In this special Student Edition episode, we’re passing the mic to Anna Wright, a junior at San Diego State University and student rep on the ASID San Diego board. Anna shares her journey from STEM to design and opens up a real, relatable conversation with fellow student and ASID committee member Theresa Staine —who brings a unique blend of business savvy and design passion to the table. Theresa spent a decade thriving as a fashion buyer in New York City before answering the call of her creative roots. Now, she’s deep in her master’s studies at the Academy of Art University, combining an artist’s eye with a heart for sustainable, human-centered spaces. Together, Anna and Theresa dig into: 🎒 What it’s really like navigating the jump from undergrad to post-grad✨ How to find (and trust) your design voice💼 Leveraging past careers to fuel your design future🛠️ The challenges and rewards of grad school in interior architecture🌿 Designing with purpose: community, wellness, and sustainability Whether you’re a student wondering what’s next or a professional curious about the next generation of designers, this episode is full of heart, honesty, and inspiration. About Anna: Anna Wright (she/her) is a junior at San Diego State University studying Interior Architecture and minoring in Engineering. She is originally from Scranton, Pennsylvania. She’s been part of the ASID San Diego community since her freshman year and now serves on the student representative board. About Theresa: From an early age, I knew I was destined for a creative path. As a child, I loved sketching and painting landscapes, and that early love for art naturally grew into a passion for design. My journey into interior architecture has been one of both risk and reward. Before entering the design world, I spent a decade in New York City building a successful career as a buyer for major retailers. While that experience strengthened my business sense and attention to detail, I always felt a creative pull that couldn’t be ignored. Returning to my artistic roots, I decided to pursue my master’s degree in Interior Architecture at the Academy of Art University, where I’ve found a true sense of purpose. I’m deeply passionate about using design to support healthy urbanism, community development and sustainability. I enjoy creating spaces that inspire connection, encourage movement, and foster well-being. As an active individual who values a healthy lifestyle, I believe thoughtful design can profoundly influence the way we live, work, and thrive. Continuing to learn and grow in this field excites me every day. My goal is to combine my creative vision, design education, and business background to make a lasting impact through meaningful, human-centered design. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresamstaine/ instagram.com/Theresastaine Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a...

In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Crawford sits down with Kristy Kropat, the incoming President‑Elect of the ASID San Diego Chapter, to explore her journey, design philosophy, and her vision for the chapter. Key Topics Covered: Kristy’s unconventional path into interior design: from a decade as a software and embedded systems engineer to retraining at the Design Institute of San Diego and starting her own studio.How her technical/engineering background informs her design process — especially problem solving, usability, organization.Founding her design firm in San Diego in 2008; moving the business to San Francisco in 2014, then relocating to Berlin and building an international practice.Expanding her services: emphasizing lighting design and integrating her engineering + interior design expertise. Her current master’s thesis topic: Advancing Quality of Light in California Homes.Discussion of residential versus commercial design, and why Kristy values residential for its personal connection to clients.Insights into her lighting design philosophy — the role of color temperature, color rendering (CRI, TM‑30), layering light, the importance of proper lighting in realizing design.Her decision to say “yes” to the board role for ASID: giving back, supporting the chapter, helping bridge student/professional gaps.What her upcoming year as President‑Elect looks like: supporting the President, focusing on student involvement, launching new programs, lighting‑focused chapter meeting coming up on November 19 at Blackwell Lighting & Home in Encinitas.Ways for listeners (designers, students, industry partners) to connect with her and the chapter. Takeaways for Listeners: A reminder that career paths in design can be non‑linear — technical skills and creative interests can combine powerfully.The often‑underestimated role of lighting in interior design — not just aesthetics but usability, quality, and outcome.The value of professional community (like ASID) in supporting designers, especially emerging ones.Encouragement for students and young professionals: how to engage, network, and transition into the profession.Practical event opportunities: upcoming ASID San Diego events, programs and how to plug in. Kristy Kropat is an interior designer, lighting designer, engineer, and entrepreneur. She founded her boutique design studio 18 years ago in San Diego, designing award-winning residential and commercial projects throughout California and Germany. With a background that blends creative and technical expertise, she combines analytical problem-solving and design thinking to create beautiful, functional, sustainable and inclusive spaces. Kristy’s designs have been featured in over 28 national and international publications including Better Homes and Gardens, Wall Street Journal, Atomic Ranch, Cooking Light, Houzz Germany and more. Kristy was the off camera designer for A&E’s reality design show “Fix This Kitchen” and was the featured interior designer in California Closet’s TV commercial. Having lived in San Francisco and Berlin, she brings an international perspective to her designs. After spending 11 years abroad, she has returned to her native San Diego, where she is currently serving as President-Elect of the San Diego Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers and a judge for San Diego Magazine’s Home + Design Awards 2026. Connect with Kristy Kropat: [email protected] Stay Connected: a href="https://tinyurl.com/3pr3juyh"...

What do you do when the dream job isn’t hiring yet—or doesn’t exist at all? You build your own path, one floor plan at a time. In this episode, I’m joined by Heather Vitti Pruett of Vitti Interiors—a San Diego-based designer who turned her love of design into a multi-stream business that blends creativity, construction, and serious adaptability. From working in flooring and high-end residential to landing military contracts and launching a rendering side hustle, Heather shares how she grew her design career by staying flexible, saying yes to new skills, and following her intuition (even when the economy said otherwise). If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your design passion alive while building something sustainable—especially as a parent, a multi-hyphenate creative, or someone just starting out—this episode will remind you that your path doesn’t have to be linear to be successful. About Heather: Stay Connected: Connect with Heather: [email protected]/Instagram/LinkedInSign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: [email protected]

Welcome back to Interior Design San Diego! In this episode of our “Meet the Board” series, we sit down with Mallory Duran—our newly‑appointed Finance Director at ASID San Diego. If you’ve ever wondered how someone with a music major and a retail‑management background ends up influencing budgets and design‑industry partnerships, you’re in for a treat. Mallory shares her circuitous journey into design, how she re‑entered the workforce as a single parent of four, and how she’s now helping connect designers, builders, and industry partners in the San Diego region. Join us as we explore creativity, community, and the power of showing up. 3–5 Key Takeaways: Your path doesn’t have to be linear. Mallory’s background shows that even unexpected careers (music major → retail management → design industry) can lead to meaningful roles in design leadership.Community is everything. ASID San Diego made Mallory feel welcomed—even as someone who didn’t attend design school—and that sense of belonging is a powerful asset when you show up.Design professionals benefit when industry & trade connect. Mallory’s role at The Home Depot Design Center places her at the intersection of builders, designers, and vendors—highlighting how collaboration across segments strengthens the ecosystem.Leadership is about service, not spotlight. Even though “Finance Director” might sound behind the scenes, Mallory emphasizes how critical this role is for making everything else possible—reimbursements, compliance, strategic growth.Show up, then lean in. Whether you’re new to San Diego, shifting careers, or stepping into board service, consistency, curiosity, and connection are key. Mallory invites us to stay tuned for big things happening this year with ASID San Diego. About Mallory: Mallory Duran serves as the 2025-2026 ASID Finance Director and is the West Coast Builder Sales Specialist with the Home Depot Design Center. With a diverse background ranging from stay-at-home mom to designing custom window coverings and owning a construction company, Mallory brings a wealth of experience to her current role. Her passion for fostering positive relationships is her greatest strength both professionally and personally. As a proud mother of four, she expertly balances her family and career. Mallory eagerly anticipates future opportunities with ASID and is dedicated to making a significant impact in the market. Connect with Mallory: [email protected] Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: [email protected]

This is the second episode in our ASID San Diego Board Member Spotlight Series — and today we’re shining a light on someone who’s all about connection, color, and community: Kendra from K2 Interiors, our current Membership Director. In this candid convo, Kendra shares her journey from growing up in Baja to launching a vibrant, soulful design business in San Diego. With a style rooted in maximalism, global inspiration, and deeply personal design, she’s the creative match for clients ready to ditch the cookie-cutter. Kendra also shares what drew her back into the ASID fold, why mentorship matters, and how she’s helping create experiences that speak to every stage of a designer’s career — like the upcoming Design Gems trip to Valle de Guadalupe (you’ll want to grab your seat fast!). In this episode, you’ll learn: How Kendra rebuilt her design business from scratch — twiceWhy ASID is more than networking — it's a home base for creativesHow mentorship is evolving for students and emerging professionalsWhat makes her short-term rental projects so creatively satisfyingWhat to expect on our first-ever Design Gems trip across the border 🍷 What’s New: Design Gems: Valle de Guadalupe | November 15A one-day architectural + culinary field trip across the borderMembership questions? DM or email Kendra — she’s your go-to guideMentorship pilot program in the works — stay tuned! Design Gems Sign-up link. 📬 Connect with Kendra: Instagram: @k2interiorsEmail: [email protected]: www.k2deco.com Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: [email protected]