Interior Design San Diego - Presented by ASID San Diego

What happens when you combine a love of design, years of hands-on food service experience, and a deep understanding of how a restaurant actually operates? In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, Rachel sits down with Tina Marie Koch of Design Perspectives to talk about her unexpected path into hospitality design, the mentors who helped shape her career, and why the most successful hospitality spaces aren't just beautiful—they work. Tina shares her approach to designing from the inside out, the importance of flow and function, and how authenticity, community, and thoughtful operations are shaping the future of hospitality design.

About Tina Marie Koch

With over 35 years of experience, Tina transitioned from restaurant operations to design, eventually founding the award-winning firm Design Perspectives in 1990.

Specializing in hospitality, restaurant and foodservice design, she is an SDSU graduate, NCIDQ certified, a California Certified Interior Design, and a licensed General Contractor. An active ASID member since her student years, Tina served as ASID San Diego Chapter President (2009-2010) and received the 2013 Ethel M. Siegelman Memorial Award. Her academic work includes guest speaking at various universities and serving as an Adjunct Professor at the Design Institute of San Diego.

Connect with Tina

LinkedIn

Website

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In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with Rick Hess, Director of Career Services at NewSchool of Architecture & Design and lead designer of Illume Design.

This conversation is part of a special series leading up to ASID San Diego’s August chapter meeting. The intention is to help listeners get to know Rick, the panel moderator, along with the other panelists before the event. By learning more about their backgrounds, perspectives, and experience in advance, attendees can arrive with more context, feel more connected to the conversation, and come prepared with thoughtful questions.

Rick shares his journey into architecture and interior design, his passion for mentorship, and his belief that design can support healing, well-being, and meaningful change.

He also offers practical advice for students and emerging professionals, including what employers are really looking for, how to create a portfolio that shows your thought process, and why professional relationships can be just as important as technical skills.

The conversation also explores how designers can move into hospitality design through research, networking, mentorship, office visits, and hands-on learning.

About Rick:

Richard Hess is an accomplished designer and educator with more than 25 years of experience spanning architecture, interior design, and custom furniture design, complemented by over 15 years of experience in higher education.

He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in architecture and interior architecture from Auburn University. He later completed his Master of Architecture at NewSchool of Architecture & Design, graduating at the top of his class.

In addition to his academic achievements, Richard is the founder of Illume Design, where his work explores the intersection of design and the phenomenology of light and color.

Richard currently serves as the Director of Career Services at his alma mater, where he also teaches thesis and portfolio development courses. Through his mentorship, he prepares emerging professionals to thrive in the dynamic and evolving fields of architecture, interior design, product design, graphic design, and construction management.

Email: rhess@newschoolarch.edu

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickhessnsad/

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The Builder's Perspective: What Every Designer Should Know

Guest: Chad Arendsen, COAT Design Remodel

What happens when an interior designer and a general contractor truly work as partners?

In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, Rachel sits down with Chad Arendsen, owner of COAT Design Remodel, for an honest conversation about collaboration, communication, and creating exceptional client experiences.

As a fifth-generation builder, Chad shares his unconventional path into construction, from renovating a trailer in Leucadia to leading a design forward remodeling company known for its systems, craftsmanship, and collaborative approach. Together, Rachel and Chad explore why bringing the builder into the design process early leads to better outcomes, happier clients, and stronger professional relationships.

Whether you're an emerging designer, an experienced professional, or simply fascinated by the process behind beautiful homes, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and inspiring perspective.

EMAIL: chad@coatdr.com

IG: https://instagram.com/coatinc

https://instagram.com/love.design.sd

YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@COATDR

Bio:

Chad Arendsen has been in the building business most of his life. He grew up in a family business of contracting and was quick to learn the ropes. Chad and his wife Amber started a small handyman company they called Chad of All Trades 25 years ago. They did small jobs for the locals around north San Diego county.

He continued to grow his business, getting an office, bringing on more subcontractors and creating a general contracting business that thrives on excellent service. COAT Design Remodel takes a "Design Forward" approach to every project it accepts. Members of the San Diego design community are included in every job. He feels so fortunate to have helped hundreds of clients accomplish their home goals and dreams.

Chad is a family-focused, father of four. There’s nothing he loves and values more than his beautiful wife, and 4 amazing kids. He makes sure they all get his time and focus daily, and by never losing that, he is able to be 100% when working. Chad brings his passion for family into building strong relationships with his clients.

Chad loves his local community of Solana Beach and he tries to live an active and healthy lifestyle. He enjoys surfing, climbing or boxing at the local gym.

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Growing a design business doesn't start with hiring a full-time employee—it starts with building the right support system.

In this solo episode, Rachel Larraine Crawford shares her personal journey of growing Tiger Veil from a one-person operation into a collaborative team. From hiring an accountant as her very first business investment to bringing on a full-time team member and mentoring emerging professionals, Rachel offers an honest look at the lessons, mistakes, and mindset shifts that shaped her approach to building a team.

Whether you're wondering if you're ready to hire, feeling overwhelmed by wearing every hat in your business, or trying to determine what support would create the biggest impact, this episode provides practical guidance to help you move forward with confidence.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why your first "hire" may not be an employee at all
• How to identify which tasks only you can do as the founder of your business
• The difference between creating support and simply hiring staff
• Why hiring should be viewed as an investment in growth, not just an expense
• A practical framework for determining your next hire
• Lessons learned from a hiring decision that wasn't the right fit
• The value of mentoring emerging professionals and design interns
• How to build a team in stages as your business grows

Get your Interior Design First Hire Readiness Checklist Here.

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Building Relationships, Luxury, and Legacy with Russ Diamond of Snyder Diamond

In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Crawford sits down with Russ Diamond, President and CEO of Snyder Diamond, to talk about what it really means to build a legacy brand in the design industry.

From traveling through Milan and touring Bertazzoni’s factory to discussing the evolution of luxury, mentorship, and the power of relationships, Russ shares decades of insight from one of the most respected kitchen and bath companies in the country.

With over 77 years in business, Snyder Diamond has helped shape the luxury kitchen and bath industry by introducing iconic European brands to the U.S. market and creating curated experiences that connect designers directly with innovation, craftsmanship, and global design culture.

This conversation is packed with wisdom for designers at every stage — especially those looking to grow through relationships, travel, curiosity, and client-centered service.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• How Snyder Diamond became a leader in luxury kitchen and bath
• The importance of relationships in the design industry
• What designers can learn from European trade shows like Salone del Mobile
• Emerging design trends in wellness, longevity, and earth-tone palettes
• Why communication and support systems matter for successful designers
• The evolving meaning of “luxury” in today’s market
• Advice for aspiring interior designers entering the industry
• How travel and exposure shape stronger, more inspired creatives

Key Takeaways

Relationships are everything

Russ shares how decades of trust, collaboration, and showing up for designers helped Snyder Diamond become a go-to resource for architects and interior designers across Southern California.

Great design starts with caring deeply

The best designers aren’t just creative — they genuinely care about their clients and treat every project like their own.

Travel expands creativity

From Milan to Paris, experiencing global design firsthand helps designers bring fresh perspective and innovation back to their clients.

Luxury is more than a label

True luxury comes down to quality, craftsmanship, emotional connection, and creating an experience — not just using the word in marketing.

Strong teams create strong client experiences

Designers who build support systems and communicate clearly are the ones who create smoother projects and happier clients.

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In this episode of the Interior Design San Diego Podcast, Rachel Crawford welcomes back Kendra Araujo of K2 Interiors to recap ASID San Diego’s unforgettable Design Gems journey through Italy during Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile.

From immersive showroom experiences and trend forecasting to Carrara marble mines and late-night dinners with fellow designers, this conversation dives into why travel remains one of the most powerful tools for creative growth.

Kendra shares behind-the-scenes moments from organizing ASID San Diego’s first international design trip, what designers can learn from European culture, and how meaningful community connections became one of the most unexpected highlights of the experience.

Whether you’ve dreamed of attending Salone yourself or simply want fresh inspiration for your creative practice, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and a reminder that design is ultimately about how we live.

In This Episode:

• What Salone del Mobile and Milan Design Week are really like
• Why travel expands creativity and design perspective
• The biggest trends spotted in Milan this year
• The rise of color, wellness rituals, and human-centered spaces
• How European design culture differs from the U.S.
• Behind the scenes of ASID San Diego’s Design Gems experience
• Touring the Carrara marble mines in Italy
• Why community and connection became the heart of the trip
• Tips for designers interested in attending future international design events

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In this student spotlight episode, Rachel sits down with emerging designer Sam Iacometti, a fifth-year architecture student at the NewSchool of Architecture & Design, to talk about what it really looks like to step into the design industry.

From attending events solo (and why that matters) to designing an elementary school rooted in sensory experience, Sam shares a thoughtful, grounded perspective on creativity, community, and designing with intention.

This conversation is a reminder that the design journey doesn’t start after graduation—it starts the moment you decide to show up.

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At the IP Expo, LuAnn Nigara shared a message that felt equal parts business coaching, mindset shift, and reality check—and it’s one I knew I wanted to bring back to our podcast community.

In this solo episode, I’m reflecting on the biggest takeaways from her talk and why they matter for interior designers at every stage of business. From embracing the idea that sales is part of service, to setting real revenue goals, to having clearer conversations about money, this episode is all about building a design business with more confidence and intention.

I also dive into one of the most important reminders from her talk: the best salespeople are often the best listeners. When we slow down, ask better questions, and truly hear what our clients need, we create stronger relationships and better outcomes.

Whether you’re an emerging professional or a seasoned designer, this episode is a reminder that business skills do not take away from your creativity—they support it.

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On this solo episode of the Interior Design San Diego Podcast, Rachel Larraine Crawford pulls back the curtain on the reality of running a full-service interior design business.

After years of being asked by students and fellow designers what her days actually look like, Rachel walks you through her weekly rhythm—from focused admin days in her 500 sq ft ADU studio to client meetings, sourcing sessions, job site visits, and everything in between.

With 8–10 active projects at any given time—including a Brazilian steakhouse, second homes, kitchen remodels, and a one-of-a-kind astrology reading room—this episode offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the balance of creativity, logistics, leadership, and relationship-building that defines the profession.

You’ll hear how Rachel structures her week for efficiency, how she collaborates with her design assistant to manage procurement and operations, and why the “non-glamorous” side of design is actually what sets great designers apart.

Whether you're an emerging professional, a student, or simply curious about the industry, this episode demystifies the day-to-day and highlights what it really takes to bring thoughtful, well-executed spaces to life.

Connect with Rachel

rachel@tigerveil.com

https://instagram.com/tigerveil

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What happens when interior design and fabrication live under the same roof?

In this episode of the Interior Design San Diego Podcast, host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with Brittany Cartwright, Design Studio Director at Texture, a Barrio Logan–based design and fabrication studio known for bringing bold, custom ideas to life.

Texture has been shaping some of San Diego’s most memorable hospitality spaces—from beloved restaurants like Nolita Hall to cutting-edge installations for biotech campuses. What sets them apart is their unique ability to design, engineer, and fabricate complex elements all in-house, giving designers and clients a seamless path from concept to installation.

Brittany shares how Texture started with three architecture students working out of a garage and evolved into a multidisciplinary studio collaborating across hospitality, multifamily, commercial, and experiential design. She also explains how their recent rebrand into Texture Studio and Texture Architectural Fabrication (AF) reflects the company’s growing specialties.

Whether you're a designer with a big idea, a student exploring career paths, or a creative curious about fabrication, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how collaboration turns imagination into reality.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How Texture combines interior design and fabrication to streamline projects

• Why involving fabricators early in the design process can save time and budget

• The design process Texture uses—from programming and concept through installation

• What designers should understand about lead times, sequencing, and fabrication realities

• How collaboration across disciplines leads to stronger, more creative design outcomes

Key Takeaway

One of Texture’s biggest strengths is their ability to bridge the gap between design vision and physical construction. By collaborating closely with fabricators, estimators, and engineers from the beginning, designers can push creativity further while staying grounded in what’s possible.

Community Spotlight: Texture Open House & SDAF Event

Brittany also shares details about Texture’s upcoming open house in Barrio Logan as part of the San Diego Architectural Foundation Open House.

RSVP Here

The event will feature:

• A behind-the-scenes look at Texture’s fabrication shop

• Local artists, makers, and designers exhibiting work

• A panel discussion with architects, designers, and builders (including Rachel!)

• A community graffiti mural project

• A Oh San Diego Wrap Party featuring espresso martinis, music, and local vendors

Wrap Party Tickets Here

It’s a unique opportunity for the San Diego design community to connect, collaborate, and celebrate creativity together.

Guest Bio

Brittany Cartwright is the Design Studio Director at Texture Studio, where she leads the interiors team on hospitality, retail, and multifamily projects. A graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design, Brittany joined Texture over a decade ago and has helped grow the studio from a small five-person team into one of San Diego’s most dynamic design and fabrication studios.

Her work focuses on creating immersive spaces while collaborating closely with fabrication experts to bring complex custom ideas to life.

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• Follow Tecture here: https://www.instagram.com/tecture/ & https://www.instagram.com/tecturestudio/
• Tecture Website
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This week on Interior Design San Diego, Rachel sits down with Lorena Gaxiola—San Diego native and global design force—whose career spans luxury hospitality, high-end residential, product licensing, and international practice. Lorena shares how curiosity, systems, and a whole lot of courage helped her scale from local projects to designing around the world—while staying grounded in purpose, people, and energy.

What you’ll hear in this episode

• How Lorena’s architecture-rooted upbringing shaped her “superpower” in design
• The real reason merchandising/model homes became her masterclass in branding + emotional connection
• How she landed opportunities with major retailers and built product/licensing partnerships (hint: ask, show up, follow through)
• Her definition of “style”: experiential design—less ego, more user experience
• Practical advice on contracts, IP ownership, and building a small-but-mighty international firm

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In this episode, Rachel sits down with educator and designer Jessica Newman to talk about the evolving world of interior design education—and why students today are uniquely positioned to lead the future of the industry.

Jessica shares her journey from fine arts to hospitality design (including time at Hirsch Bedner Associates) and into academia, where she now champions sustainability, technology, and inclusive pathways into the profession.

What we cover:

• How today’s design students are reshaping the industry with ethics, sustainability, and tech-forward thinking
• Why associate degrees and community college pathways deserve more respect
• How AI is being integrated into design education (and why it’s a tool—not a threat)
• Palomar College’s new Bachelor of Science in Building Performance & Environmental Design—and why it’s a game changer
• How firms can support students through mentorships and internships (and why it benefits everyone)

Get involved:

Jessica invites designers and firms to connect with students through internships, mentorship, guest lectures, and real-world collaboration. Email her at: jnewman1@palomar.edu

Info on Palomar's Interior Design program: Interior Design at Palomar College - Interior Design

Info on Palomar's BPED program: Bachelor of Science in Building Performance and Environmental Design - Building Performance and Environmental Design

Perspective and Sketching for Designers - YouTube

Jessica's Book: Perspective and Sketching for Designers (Fashion Series): Newman, Jessica, Beduhn, Jack: 9780132574945: Amazon.com: Books

Jessica's art paintings: JESSICA NEWMAN - ARTIST

Cityscape paintings of San Diego: Jessica Newman Art

About Jessica Newman:

She is an associate professor and the lead faculty for the Interior Design department at Palomar College. She is also the co-lead for Palomar’s first bachelors degree program in Building Performance and Environmental Design. Jessica is a designer, artist, author, and professor. She has an AA and BFA in Interior Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and an MFA in Painting and an MA in Interior Architecture and Design from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Jessica has worked for a number of architecture and interior design firms in New York, Atlanta, and San Diego, including the top hospitality design firm in the world, Hirsch Bedner & Associates. Some of the various types of projects she has worked on include; public schools, private colleges, assisted living facilities, office spaces, churches, four and five-star hotels, and private homes. Jessica has been teaching at the college level for over 20 years. She is also an internationally published author. Her textbook Perspective and Sketching for Designers has been published in English and Mandarin. She also has a YouTube channel of the same name, with over 50 free instructional videos for students. Jessica is also an oil painter who exhibits regularly in San Diego, and nationally. Her oil paintings focus on cityscapes and the built environment.

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In this episode, Rachel chats with Julia Savas, a fourth-year interior architecture student at San Diego State University, about following a clear design calling, discovering a passion for healthcare and wellness spaces, and finding confidence as an emerging professional in the San Diego design community.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How a fifth-grade dream became a focused path in interior architecture
• Why personal experiences in healthcare spaces shaped Julia’s design lens
• The gap between design school and business—and how internships help
• How students are actually using AI in their projects
• Julia’s advice for new design students: say yes, show up, and let your interests evolve

About Julia

Julia Savas is a senior graduating this semester from San Diego State University’s School of Art and Design. A four-year ASID member, they studied architecture abroad in Florence and gained hands-on experience as an intern with Humble Design and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. As they prepare for post-graduation, they’re embracing the transition from student to emerging professional; pursuing certifications, licensure, and meaningful connections within San Diego’s design community, with a long-term focus on healthcare architecture.

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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 India
• Finding design footing: Navigating identity, licensing, and inspiration in a new country
• From freelance to founder: How flexibility and intuition shaped her firm’s growth
• Landing the Sofia Hotel: A career-defining opportunity born from an ASID showcase
• Hospitality design today: Tech integration, sustainability, and business-minded creativity
• Teaching 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 an adjunct professor at The New School of Architecture and Design in their Interior Architecture program since 2019. She is the recipient of several awards for both service to ASID as well as for design excellence competitions and has been widely published in magazines and coffee table books over the years.

WEBSITE: www.razvidesign.com

EMAIL: arazvi@razvidesign.com

instagram.com/designerar

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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 strategy
• What types of consultations to expect (spoiler: it’s not all paint picks!)
• How AI tools like Plaud can streamline your follow-ups
• The power of bringing students along for the ride

Key Takeaways:

• 20% of Rachel’s consultations have turned into full projects
• Following up within 24 hours makes all the difference
• Tangible tools like paint kits and business cards go a long way—especially with older clients
• Recording your sessions (with permission!) can simplify your follow-up workflow
• It’s a fundraiser—but also a powerful lead generator

ASID Spring Spruce Up Requirements:

• Must be an ASID member in good standing
• Minimum of 3 years of professional design experience
• Available March 1 – April 31, 2026
• Sign up deadline 1/31/26
• Sign up link.

Stay Connected:

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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 Takeaways

• Volunteer 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 leadership roles

✔ Anyone curious about the intersection of design, collaboration, and growth

🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned

🔗 Sunset West

Website | @sunsetwestusa

Email: info@sunsetwestusa.com

🔗 Connect with Lauri through ASID events and local chapter collaborations

(Links via your platform)

🎧 Final Thought

This episode reminds us that design is a collective journey — one where mentorship, community, resilience, and shared knowledge shape not just spaces, but the people who create them.

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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.

Stay Connected:

• WEBSITE: http://lauraabramsdesign.comhttp://lauraabramsdesign.com
• EMAIL: laura@lauraabramsdesign.com
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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 designer
• My philosophy on pricing, flat fees, and charging what you’re worth
• A business mistake I made recently—and what it taught me
• Why having a mentor (or becoming one) changes everything
• The 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 Newsletter
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• LinkedIn
• Follow us on Instagram
• Ask your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.
• Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes
• Share this podcast with a fellow designer in your community
• Questions, sponsorship or feed back: rachel@tigerveil.com

Design Trends vs. Design Truths: What Really Matters in 2026

Hosted 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: president@CASD.ASID.org

Next Chapter Meeting

January 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: membership@CASD.ASID.org (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 lighting
• Acoustic zoning
• Air quality upgrades
• Low-VOC / non-toxic materials
• Nature 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 “art”)
• Comforting chaos + pattern drenching (layered patterns with intention—not randomness)
• Experimental material concepts (unconventional combos, repurposed elements, story-driven objects)
• Spatial reconfiguration (modular layouts, “spaces within spaces,” intentional vignettes vs. default open plan)

Design Truths That Never Go Out of Style

When trend noise gets loud, Rachel recommends returning to these pillars:

• Light is everything
• Great design choreographs light—natural + artificial—to shape mood, rhythm, and experience.
• Design must serve life
• Function is the foundation of beauty. If it doesn’t support how someone lives, it’s just a stage set.
• Storytelling is the ultimate aesthetic
• Instead of “What’s in?” ask: “What matters here?” Narrative-driven design transcends style categories.
• Sustainability drives better creativity
• Sustainability isn’t sacrifice—it’s better questions, better materials, better longevity. A compass, not a constraint.
• Community creates better work
• Design thrives in dialogue—with peers, mentors, vendors, makers, and clients. You don’t have to do it alone.

How to Guide Clients Away From Trends That Won’t Serve Them

Rachel shares a practical approach designers can use in real client conversations:

• Start with curiosity: What draws you to this trend—the look, the feeling, the memory?
• Translate the emotion: deliver the spirit of the trend in a way that fits their lifestyle.
• Educate with kindness: help them understand maintenance and real-life implications (especially with families/pets).
• Remind them: timeless means personal (not beige).

A 2026 Design Prompt

Choose:

• One trend that excites you, and
• One design truth that grounds you
• …and commit to designing from both places this year.

Rachel shares her own: deep color + layered patterns/textures, grounded in storytelling.

Stay Connected:

• Sign Up for Our Newsletter
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• Ask your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.
• Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes
• Share this podcast with a fellow designer in your community
• Questions, sponsorship or feed back: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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 energy
• How to design your calendar around your life (not the other way around)
• A vision for 2026 that feels exciting and sustainable
• Who you need to become to lead your business with more ease

Here’s a Little Homework (the fun kind!):

• Print a blank 2026 calendar
• Pour some tea, or coffee
• Hit pause after each prompt to journal it out
• Use 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 rachel@tigerveil.com . I’d truly love to hear what you’re dreaming up for 2026.

Stay Connected:

• Sign Up for Our Newsletter
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• LinkedIn
• Follow us on Instagram
• Ask your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.
• Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodes
• Share this podcast with a fellow designer in your community
• Questions, sponsorship or feed back: sandiegoasid@gmail.com