Preston Bailey, a fabulous event planner/designer, (in my humble opinion), wrote this recent post on his blog: “Common Mistakes – Being Too Concerned About What Others Think” I love to read Preston’s posts as they are written with the wisdom of having many years of business experience, in a creative field, as well as I believe they truly come from the heart. (He writes his own posts rather than assign them to someone else.) Preston was spot on with his conclusions and if you are a professional in the field of interior design, or even a consumer looking to hire a designer, this is a great read. It brings forth the question - “Should there be kindness in the world of design?”
(Here’s Preston creating one of his own blog posts. I enjoy his combination of elegance and humility. He honors his past, while looking towards the future.)
I appreciate constructive comments as they are good for dialogue and help non-designers understand more about the process and world of interior design. I appreciate them when they come from a trusted peer or advisor. (Those of whom I admire their degree of expertise and their integrity. I know the comments will be honest but with good intention.) I often ask those special people for their advice and objective opinions, even though I know the world of design and art can be very subjective. Ultimately, my “design judge” will be the client or the potential clients who might be looking for my services.
(An interior designer’s portfolio. It’s more than a stack of photos. It’s our body of work and the heart and soul of our clients’ projects.)
If a third-party posts portfolio photos online, it should be done with respect and admiration for that designer’s work. If an individual, be it the designer or the homeowner, is not made aware their work is being put out for public critique, (as being solicited on some social media sites), it opens up an opportunity for a misunderstanding as to the intent of the post, especially if placed in a position of which the topic regards ill humor or snarky comments. In some cases, not only are comments being made about the designer's work, the poster may also be commenting on a design client’s personal residence. Professionals should understand the concept of restraint and good taste in all areas of design, even with their words. I think most consumers would choose talent, professionalism, class, and kindness. (At least, that's the kind of client with whom I enjoy working the most.)
(Thank goodness for diversity! Otherwise snowflakes could be awfully boring.)
We have to remember that opinions are just what they are. The intention is what sets them apart. What is the gain for the other party? Does it build them up or support them? If not, I remember what my southern mother has always shared with me - "When in doubt, don't do it" and the old adage about, "If you don't have anything kind to say . . . ." Finally, the Golden Rule works very well, too. I often wonder, given the face-to-face opportunity with the interior designer and their clients, if some of the comments I've seen made on those media outlets would be openly shared?
I think the beauty of interior design is not only in applying its functional aspect; it’s the personal expression for the client. We, the designers, offer our professional guidance. The final signature of approval comes from the client.
Thanks for letting me share my musings, today. I appreciate your time!
With kindest regards,
Wanda
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