You all know by now how social media is a critical tool I use, and I love sharing not only MRI projects, my home, and family; recently I took a walk down memory lane – scrolling ALL the way to the bottom of my Instagram. I was struck at how so much has changed in my world as MRI has grown! I am continually evolving both in my personal and business life. Over the years finessing my “signature” design aesthetic and evolving not only has an interior designer but a small business owner. In today’s Q&A I am diving deep into the how’s and why’s I think it is essential to continue to evolve as an interior designer and how I think the industry of interior design is evolving.
Q&A with Melissa Roberts, a Houston Interior Designer
How do you see yourself evolving as an interior designer?
Interior design is continuously evolving, which means that I have to stay current with not only the latest trends but also with the latest tech and how clients are evolving. I have ave so many ideas on where I want to take MRI, but I want to create something that benefits other designers, and that benefits clients. I can’t tell too much at this point but do know I am working hard to create something unique and special. Maybe I can even work on designing some furniture or rugs one day, the possibilities are endless, and I am just getting started!
*To See More About Each Project Click Photo*
What has become your signature design aesthetic, that clients request the most?
“I want my house to look just like yours” is probably what I hear most. As a new designer, it can be difficult to only work on one design style because you can’t be too selective, or you won’t have enough clients to survive. All clients I have worked with (no matter the style) have all asked me to modernize their home. They aren’t necessarily meaning they want to incorporate a Modern design (clean lines utilizing wood and earthy elements) instead; they want to update the pieces within their home. Contemporary design is very popular, and one of my favorites!
How do you see MRI evolving in the future, any upcoming collaborations/projects?
I would love to take MRI to the next level. Including what I touched on before but also as a home décor “influencer.” Working with brands, I genuinely love to bring you the best deals, and the latest trends are something I would love to get more involved in!
With the ever-evolving web and interior design at your fingertips available through websites, why do you see the importance of utilizing an interior designer?
We live in an age where we can Google anything we want and have it in our home two days later. Interior designers bring a lot more than that to the table. As a designer, it’s essential to make sure my client loves the pieces that I incorporate into the room but ultimately, I need to use pieces that fit the room well too. A client can buy a piece of art that she thinks is beautiful, no problem. But often the client doesn’t know what size of art to buy, or how to hang it properly, or that a piece of art is not what the wall needs after all. The internet allows me to reach clients all over the country and brings an even more affordable design service for those who don’t necessarily need a complete design package.
Rapid Fire Questions
What is one design element you could never tire?
Natural elements. That could range from live plants to metal pieces, ornate items or wood.
What is one design element/feature you would love to see go away?
Antique Farmhouse
How do you get creative juices going?
I drink wine! Besides that, I listen to my clients and let them inspire me. Also, I love a good home magazine.
Is there a particular time of day you are more creative?
Evenings…don’t talk to me in the mornings, please!
What do you find most challenging when designing a home?
Typically, the biggest challenge is bringing my client’s dream to reality within a budget that is not realistic.
What are you most inspired by (design-wise)?
Travel! Landscapes, hotels, outfits it all inspires me, and I love seeing that different parts of the world.
Do you ever get burnt out and if so, how do you move past it?
Absolutely. The feeling is real, and it can be overwhelming. I take breaks, plain and simple. It is important that I block out times so that I have freedom from work and refocus on the most important thing, my family. Typically, I take summers and Christmas time off. I have found that this leaves me inspired and ready to generate more business.
Advice from Melissa Roberts, founder of MRI
Any advice for “newer” designers for honing their “known” for style/design aesthetic?
Share your home, over and over! Let your home speak for your design style and share it with the world! I just had this conversation with another designer. Use social media as your way to reach the world and creatively display your home. If people love your home, there’s a good chance they will be calling you to help with theirs!
For a more seasoned designer, do you think it is necessary to evolve/change their aesthetic?
Yes, if we don’t evolve while the world evolves, we will be stuck feeling defeated. I often see designers complain about the E-Design world and the client ease of purchasing products online. Instead of getting stuck in this trap, learn how to become part of the solution. I am actually excited to see how interior design evolves over the next few years.
One of my favorite sayings is “If it doesn’t challenge you it won’t change you” and that is how I look at not only running my own business but how I see the world of interior design. If every project was easy and the same, truth be told, then this wouldn’t be the industry for me. The need to evolve as in interior designer on a constant and constant bases forces me to grow both in the professional and personal life and for me, that’s the ultimate end goal for me. I can’t wait for you all to share how your style is evolving #Q&AwithMRI.
