Episode Highlight - Returning to Ep 57 with Renae Keller Interior Design
Renae Keller on Building Client Trust and Sourcing Excellence
Did you catch Episode 57 with Renae Keller Interior Design? If you missed it, you can check it out here! We’re going to dive deeper into the conversation and share some of the highlights that we don’t want you to miss.
Building Client Trust and Sourcing Excellence
Interior design is an ever-evolving field that requires constant innovation, creativity, and a keen eye for detail. In Episode 57 host Mark Williams jumps into the dynamic world of interior design with Renae Keller, founder of Renae Keller Interior Design. This engaging conversation touches on many topics, from sourcing new materials to navigating client relationships and the role of community and collaboration in the industry. Here, we expand on the key insights shared during this enriching episode.
The Art of "Always Sourcing"
One of the standout points Renae discusses is the concept of "always sourcing." For her, this involves an ongoing quest to discover new artists, showrooms, and materials that can infuse creativity and uniqueness into her projects. Platforms like Instagram have become invaluable tools for Renae, allowing her to connect with artists and explore new design possibilities. Her visits to places like Pagoda Red, an antique Asian showroom in Chicago, and upcoming plans to explore Charleston, underscore her commitment to uncovering hidden gems.
Renae's renewed ability to travel as her children grow older has further fueled her enthusiasm for sourcing. She vividly describes the thrill of finding that perfect piece, whether it's a unique lighting fixture or a rare antique, and how these discoveries can shape the vision for an entire project. In essence, "always sourcing" is about staying ahead of the curve, ensuring that each project is not just current but also timeless.
Balancing Creativity and Deadlines
Another fascinating aspect Renae touches on is the challenge of working on a massive project with a tight deadline. She recounts her experience of making selections for a 10,000-square-foot home in a golf community—all within just six months. This project required meticulous planning and quick decision-making as she chose lighting, cabinetry, and materials. The unique nature of the project, combined with its luxurious setting, necessitated a blend of creativity and practicality.
Mark compares this process to cooking, emphasizing the need for timing and patience. Renae highlights the importance of client trust in making swift decisions, particularly when dealing with specialty products. The conversation underscores how essential it is to have a harmonious relationship between the architect, builder, and designer from the project's inception, ensuring a cohesive vision and a well-managed budget.
Relationship Building and Community
The importance of building strong relationships and fostering a sense of community within the industry is another recurring theme in the episode. Renae shares her experiences attending trips with Signature Kitchens, valuing the support and knowledge she gains from industry representatives. These trips, she notes, are crucial for staying updated on new technologies and finishes, offering a platform for learning and collaboration.
Mark, too, acknowledges the significance of these trips but often has to decline due to family commitments. Renae advises other designers to get involved in industry groups, stay connected with local showrooms, and maintain robust industry contacts to gain such opportunities. The conversation also highlights the Pearl Collective, a coaching group that Renae is part of. This collective provides valuable resources and networking opportunities, emphasizing the importance of connection and collaboration in elevating one’s business.
Effective Communication and Documentation
As the podcast progresses, the discussion shifts to the importance of effective communication and documentation. Renae explains her process for approvals and selections, utilizing separate systems to ensure clarity and accuracy. Mark echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for in-person meetings and meticulous documentation to manage client expectations. The anecdote of a client unknowingly making design changes serves as a humorous yet poignant reminder of the importance of clear communication.
Mark and Renae agree that understanding clients' needs, proactive communication, and collaboration with builders and architects are crucial for a successful project. They also explore the delicate balance between creativity and practicality, navigating situations where clients may be strong-willed and have specific ideas that may not align with professional advice. Mark likens this dynamic to personal training, where clients seek guidance but may not always heed professional advice.
Embracing Change and Innovation
Renae's 25+ years in the design industry have given her a front-row seat to its evolution. She reflects on the shift from physical catalogs to digital resources and the decreased presence of showrooms. While acknowledging the efficiencies brought about by these changes, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, she expresses nostalgia for the tangible interactions with clients and materials.
The discussion also touches on the undeniable benefits of firsthand experiences at showrooms. Renae emphasizes that while younger clients are more inclined to order online, repeat clients who trust her expertise offer a more seamless collaborative experience. The immersive tours Renae so passionately discusses underscore the importance of staying connected to the physical aspects of design, ensuring that each project is imbued with a sense of authenticity and individuality.
The episode ends by offering a compelling glimpse into the multifaceted world of interior design through Renae Keller’s experiences and insights. From the art of always sourcing and balancing creativity with deadlines to the significance of relationship building, communication, and embracing innovation, Renae’s journey serves as an inspiration for designers and builders alike. As the industry continues to evolve, the principles of trust, collaboration, and continuous learning remain timeless cornerstones of success.
Resources
This episode is sponsored by:
