In this episode of Designers and Builders, host Alyssa Olson speaks with Niki McNeill Brown, an interior designer who transitioned from a pre-med background to pursue her passion for design.

Niki discusses her journey into the field, the importance of psychology in understanding space, and her client-centered approach to design. She shares insights on creating functional spaces that cater to diverse needs, the inspiration she draws from nature and art, and the significance of custom design.

The conversation also touches on the integration of technology in design, navigating industry trends, and advice for aspiring designers.

Takeaways

• Niki transitioned from pre-med to interior design after realizing her passion for creating beautiful spaces.
• Her background in psychology informs her understanding of how spaces impact mood and behavior.
• She believes in bringing client dreams to life through collaborative design.
• Niki advocates for investing in high-quality, custom design to enhance client experiences.
• She incorporates technology, including AI, to improve design efficiency and client presentations.

Chapters

00:00 Niki's Journey to Interior Design

03:25 The Intersection of Psychology and Design

06:06 Client-Centered Design Approach

10:13 Bringing Client Dreams to Life

13:07 Creating Functional Spaces for Modern Living

16:56 Design Inspiration from Nature and Art

19:50 Navigating Budget and Quality in Design

25:10 The Value of Custom Design

28:30 Incorporating Technology in Design

32:03 Advice for Aspiring Designers

33:56 Opportunities in the Design Industry

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You can connect with Niki at:

https://www.mcneillbrowninteriors.com/

https://www.instagram.com/mcneillbrowninteriors