“Ashley Yeates - Taking over the design world with her sustainable approach!”
In a recent interview with the California Herald, I discuss the intricacies of the design process, highlighting the essential balance between aesthetics and functionality. I emphasize my commitment to integrating natural elements into projects. Interestingly, a legal background provides a solid foundation for managing extensive amounts of information for meticulous design and fortitude for manifesting change. I provide insights and practical tips for creating impactful, eco-friendly homes. The interview conversation offers a professional perspective on the art of interior design, reflecting a deep dedication to the field I feel lucky to have found. Here are some highlights of the interview for a quick read!
“Can you walk us through your design process, from initial concept to final execution, and how it is different from each client?”
Initial design work starts with a site meeting and discussion about project goals. As the design process is personal, it is as important to determine if personalities align as it is to ensure the goals and process are clear. Interior design is like a temporary marriage with a common goal, it starts exciting, but the process is unpredictable. I can’t say any two projects have ever been the same. I try to meet clients’ needs on the best level for them. I have found concept images, understanding lot/building potential, and being realistic about budgets and timelines are critical for ensuring the ride is enjoyable versus overwhelming.
Clients and tradesmen/women are equally important to successful results, and we all must play in the same sandbox. I often set the rules and boundaries to ensure emotions do not overshadow the end goal along the way. I must admit, that interior design is not for the faint of heart.
“How do you approach understanding a client’s needs and preferences?”
Design is an investment; I want to see projects add personal and financial gain. Clients may know the style or overall vibe for their project but with limitless options in the marketplace, they get overwhelmed with the puzzle. I like to put enough pieces on the table for creativity while ensuring a completed puzzle arises.
“What are your favorite sources of inspiration when starting a new project?”
I start every project based on the view, natural setting in mind and work backward. This outside/in perspective changed my initial design process of layering objects to less is more. I don’t want my interiors to distract from natural beauty and if I find a project lacking the connection, I create it via a courtyard or landscaping feature.
“How do you ensure that your designs are both aesthetically pleasing and functional for the end-users?”
This is where listening to the client is critical. I have to run a project to the end before starting to ensure the design process meets the client’s needs. If I know a person likes to read in the living room, I create a design plan that offers adjustable lighting, a warming fireplace, and a chair/sofa that is comfy yet firm. The only way to have both is to define the use before creating the space.
I start with the impact of the project on the natural setting, consider a client’s health and age, specify non-toxic materials, factor in energy efficiency, provide for ventilation, design with durability and longevity, and appreciate the impact of the project on property values.
Sustainable practices can be as simple as reducing waste and as complicated as respecting one’s part in our country’s job force…it’s an appreciation for the big picture and everyone’s daily impact on this planet.
“What do you consider to be the most important aspect of a successful interior design project?”
The most important aspect of successful interior design is the connection between nature, a home, and humans. A project is only as successful as the energy it gives off once complete, even a non-sensitive person can feel balance. Balance is the culmination of all levels of design playing off each other for comfortable living and aesthetic stimulation without over-stimulating. A successful interior reflects its surroundings and the homeowner’s personality. Custom furniture often adds a key element to comfort and functionality once complete. Furniture should fit and not overwhelm the space, and I like to leave space for collecting “special pieces” over time. A balanced home is a museum of one’s life.
Thank you California Herald for taking time to hear about my passion and dedication to this profession and the levels I am able to make the world a better place, one project and piece of furniture at time.