Interior Design San Diego - Presented by ASID San Diego

Building Relationships, Luxury, and Legacy with Russ Diamond of Snyder DiamondIn 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 bathThe importance of relationships in the design industryWhat designers can learn from European trade shows like Salone del MobileEmerging design trends in wellness, longevity, and earth-tone palettesWhy communication and support systems matter for successful designersThe evolving meaning of “luxury” in today’s marketAdvice for aspiring interior designers entering the industryHow travel and exposure shape stronger, more inspired creativesKey TakeawaysRelationships are everythingRuss 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 deeplyThe best designers aren’t just creative — they genuinely care about their clients and treat every project like their own.Travel expands creativityFrom Milan to Paris, experiencing global design firsthand helps designers bring fresh perspective and innovation back to their clients.Luxury is more than a labelTrue luxury comes down to quality, craftsmanship, emotional connection, and creating an experience — not just using the word in marketing.Strong teams create strong client experiencesDesigners who build support systems and communicate clearly are the ones who create smoother projects and happier clients.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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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.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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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.cominstagram.com/tigerveilStay 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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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 episodeHow Lorena’s architecture-rooted upbringing shaped her “superpower” in designThe real reason merchandising/model homes became her masterclass in branding + emotional connectionHow 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 experiencePractical advice on contracts, IP ownership, and building a small-but-mighty international firmStay 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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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 architectureWhy personal experiences in healthcare spaces shaped Julia’s design lensThe gap between design school and business—and how internships helpHow students are actually using AI in their projectsJulia’s advice for new design students: say yes, show up, and let your interests evolveAbout JuliaJulia 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.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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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 rideKey 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 generatorASID 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 podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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 Learn1. Defining Your Design IdentityLaura 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 ChoicesInstead 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 & ScaleLaura 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 TermsSuccess, 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 & ProcessLaura 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 CoachingLaura 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 WellFrom 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 SystemsImportant 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: lauraabramsdesign.com EMAIL: laura@lauraabramsdesign.com 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: rachel@tigerveil.com

Design Trends vs. Design Truths: What Really Matters in 2026Hosted by Rachel Larraine Crawford, ASID AlliedHappy 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 DateRachel 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.orgNext 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: 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 PalettesA 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 MaterialsLuxury 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 NostalgiaNot 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 BaselineWellness 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 WatchingRachel 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 StyleWhen trend noise gets loud, Rachel recommends returning to these pillars:Light is everythingGreat design choreographs light—natural + artificial—to shape mood, rhythm, and experience.Design must serve lifeFunction is the foundation of beauty. If it doesn’t support how someone lives, it’s just a stage set.Storytelling is the ultimate aestheticInstead of “What’s in?” ask: “What matters here?” Narrative-driven design transcends style categories.Sustainability drives better creativitySustainability isn’t sacrifice—it’s better questions, better materials, better longevity. A compass, not a constraint.Community creates better workDesign 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 ThemRachel 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 PromptChoose:One trend that excites you, andOne 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 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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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-harmerAbout 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 through meaningful, human-centered design.Learn More & Get InvolvedReady to deepen your connections and grow your interior design career?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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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 beyondKey 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 suppliesAbout Shannon:As a highly skilled interior designer with twenty-five years of professional experience and fourteen years of focused business development and self-growth for her own design firm, Shannon has found great reward in the Interior Design industry. As a senior level project manager for both residential and hospitality related fields, she has advanced knowledge in developing scopes for project opportunities and building seamless experiences for both the client/s and the assembled team/s.   Residential design has always been a passion, particularly major remodels.  Working on homes in Southern Italy, Barbados, New York City, Hawaii and several states across the United States, Shannon doesn’t see geography as an obstacle.  Working as an in-house designer for a major Vacation Ownership Developer connected her interest to hospitality design, opening doors for many projects and opportunities such as converting hotels from one brand to another and overseeing branded property improvement plans for several hotels across the country.   She even had a small part in a revitalization of a historic hotel site in Barbados, her husband’s home country, called Sweetfield Manor.  And, most notably, added to a closed Designer list of only 14 firms for Marriott’s new City Express brand.President of Payte Miller Interiors, Inc. has afforded her many great experiences and with that brought a desire for her to give back.  Shannon’s volunteering journey began in 2004 when she joined the NEWH (Network of Executive Women in Hospitality) San Diego Chapter as Scholarship Director for five years, graduating as Board President in 2010.  Obtaining her NCIDQ Certification in 2009 catapulted her into becoming an active professional member of ASID San Diego where she has served on the Board as Membership Director and President of the Chapter in 2021.  Teaching Undergraduate level coursework at the CIDA Accredited Design Institute of San Diego in 2009 started her interest in mentorship and supporting students and emerging professionals.  She continues teaching Hospitality and Commercial Design studio courses, Business Practices and Building Systems, fulfilling her passion of giving back, teaming-up, collaborating, and building a foundation of relationships across all aspects of her career. In 2020, her compassion ran over when she discovered a local non-profit called Humble Design, an incredible organization who works to change lives and communities by custom designing and fully furnishing home interiors of gently used donated goods for individuals, families and veterans emerging from homelessness.  The mission has become her second job, although 100% volunteer where she spends time in the warehouse sorting donations, doing craft projects and repairing furniture.  Not just behind the scenes, but also contributing to the “Day of Joy” where volunteers move all the furnishings into the homes, stage and install for a long 8 hours with an oftentimes emotional home reveal.  To take it a step further, she serves on the fundraising committee soliciting donations for their annual fundraising event, raising $200K annually. Shannon doesn’t take all the credit for her professional successes without mentioning her foundation, her family.   Contributors to her success she recognizes her husband David of 15 years, her sons Ethan (21) and Dillon (14) along with her late mom Cindy, who all give her the motivation she needs to keep doing the work.  Her family is her rock, and she never shies away from talking about how blessed she is to have such an amazing cheering squad.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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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: Kristy@kristykropatdesign.comStay Connected:ASID November 19th Chapter MeetingSign 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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

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: MALLORY_L_DURAN@homedepot.comStay 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: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

Hey friend — let’s get real for a moment.Have you ever walked into a room and felt like you didn’t belong there? Like you were somehow “faking it,” even though your experience, talent, and heart were 100% legit?Same. 🙋🏻‍♀️In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on a recent experience that had me deep in imposter syndrome — yes, even after 25 years in the design industry. It was humbling, it was hard, and it taught me a few big lessons I want to share with you today.Whether you’re just getting started in your design career or you’ve been around the block a few times, I promise this one will feel like a warm hug and a heart-to-heart.In this episode, I’m sharing:A real story of a time I questioned if I belonged — even with years of experienceThe sneaky ways imposter syndrome shows up (and how it cost me 10 months of unpaid work 😳)Why having a design community like ASID makes all the differenceMy go-to toolkit for getting back in alignment when doubt takes over📝 Mentioned in this episode:The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan + Dr. Benjamin HardyStay 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: sandiegoasid@gmail.comImposter syndrome might pop up from time to time, but it doesn’t get the final say. You’re doing incredible work. You belong here. And this space? It needs what only you can create.Until next time — keep designing, keep showing up, and remember: you’re enough, just as you are.Love,Rachel