Stephanie Michaan
Stephanie Michaan
Designer + Founder of the Interior NY
New York City
www.TheInteriorNY.com
Instagram @the.interior
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I’m a design and home enthusiast. I have been working as an interior designer + decorator for almost a year now. I launched my website, design services and blog centered around interior design. ”
I love the process of working on residential design projects (and small commercial) but have to say my favorite thing is sourcing furniture, finding unique pieces and getting to know new creators. I've been working on a blog section of my site featuring different people in the creative field ranging from yoga teachers, furniture makers, clothing designers, photographers and so on. I love connecting with other people and finding ways to collaborate so starting this has been especially fun for me.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
I've always loved interiors and the idea of creating a home so it seemed like a natural step. I have a background in the creative field but not with an interior design firm. I realized one day that I should be involved in design in some form or another and took classes at Parsons.
I moved out of the city to Bridgehampton, NY about two years ago and renovated an old farm house. I loved seeing the space transform but also loved doing the research, sourcing furniture and creating a certain feeling. The renovation was eye opening how much time, energy and work go into a renovation - but also how personal it is. I think that's what made me realize how important it is for me to connect with a project before committing to it.
With a few projects under my belt, I'm now trying to figure out where my strengths and interests align best. I've always dreamed of having a design store and really moving forward with a blog to create a bigger community with people of a similar mindset.
FOR OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR FIELD, WHAT DO THEY USUALLY LACK?
I think often times interior designers don't listen enough. It's so important to stay true to your own aesthetic and beliefs but when someone else hires you to work on their home I think the biggest thing I've learned is to really listen and work together to create their story and vision.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I'm working on an apartment in the city and in March am starting a villa design in St. Barths! Having the opportunity to work on a villa in such a beautiful environment is a dream - but the best part is how aligned I am with the client. When I am able to connect with someone it becomes a true partnership. The process becomes more fun and in turn the results are even more thoughtful and personal.
Aside from interior design projects, I am always trying to meet new people and get ideas for my next step. I think my calling is to curate a small store so there has been a ton on my mind to make the dream a reality!
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
Serene, minimal, warm and inspired by the ocean and travel. I love being near the water and I think my taste reflects that. I love soft, cool colors and things to feel fresh.
I recently featured a photographer/designer who I admire. She designed a beautiful little villa in St. Barths and her style is a great example of where I would like to grow myself.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
I wish I could focus solely on creating a diverse and interesting design blog and open a design concept store.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
The most frustrating thing at this point is that I work mainly on my own. Since I am still in the beginning stages it hasn't been possible to bring someone on full time but I think I am at the point that having some help to move forward is key!
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
I would love to have someone help fulfill online orders - I currently have a section of my website that is an ever-changing shop of items chosen from affiliate partners/links. I am switching over to a real e-commerce shop and working with a few some brands to sell their products. Having someone to just take on the task of organizing orders and shipping out the products would be such a help!
It would also be beneficial to have someone to assist in all aspects of The Interior.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
Trust my instincts! I often doubt myself and then always end up happiest with my initial plans.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
Probably contracts and billing - not my area!
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Interior Design / Creative Collaborations
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
I look at my jobs as partnerships with the client - so ideally working with people who are open, honest and we can enjoy the process together.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
It depends on the size of the project - but typically I charge a retainer at the beginning of the design project depending on how many hours I think it will take.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Email me at stephanie@theinteriorny.com and we can just chat! See what your needs are and take it from there.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
the beach, travel, chocolate
This member profile was originally published in February 2017.