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3 Begin With the People One thing I've learned throughout my career is that good design is never just about how a space looks. I can walk into a residence or a commercial environment and immediately start imagining possibilities, but before making any design decisions, I want to understand who will experience that space and what they need from it. I ask questions. I listen. I pay attention to the little things people mention in conversation because those details often become some of the most meaningful parts of the design. Give Every Space Its Own Identity I've never wanted my projects to all look alike. To me, that would take away one of the most interesting parts of being a designer. Every project gives us an opportunity to create something different. A home may need to feel warm and personal, while a commercial space might need to communicate a brand and function beautifully for everyone who moves through it. A show home gives us freedom to introduce fresh ideas, and product design challenges us to think about form, function, and materials on an entirely different scale. Whatever we are designing, I want it to have a point of view and a sense of place. DESIGNER'S ADVICE Beyond Beautiful: Beyond Beautiful: Designing Spaces for the Way You Live Designing Spaces for the Way You Live By Lori Carroll Lori Carroll & Associates, Tucson, AZ Pay Attention to the Details I love the details—the way materials meet, how lighting changes a surface, the scale of an unexpected fixture, or how something custom can completely transform a space. Those decisions may seem small individually, but together they create the experience. I also encourage clients not to be afraid of something unexpected. Some of the most memorable design moments happen when we move beyond the obvious solution. Think Beyond What's Trending Trends can be wonderful sources of inspiration, but they shouldn't dictate an entire home. I prefer to think about what will continue to feel good years from now - quality materials, thoughtful proportions, beautiful craftsmanship, and details that have meaning. Ultimately, a successful space isn't simply one that photographs beautifully. It should make your everyday life better. When a home functions naturally, reflects the people living there, and still brings them joy years later, that's when I know we've created something special. "Trends can be wonderful sources of inspiration, but they shouldn't dictate an entire home." Photography by Jon Mancuso Modern Modern

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