Q: Most designers have signature looks. Is it worth asking them to work with my personal style?

A: Absolutely! When I meet with a client, it’s all about building trust. I want to get to know what’s important to them—travel or family or a specific look or style. If someone travels and enjoys bringing pieces home, for instance, we can definitely collaborate to showcase these things. Or, if everything revolves around family and they don’t want to worry about spilling things, we’ll find fabrics that resist stains and wear well—and we’ll make sure rooms are planned to function for kids.