When Credit is Lost but Pride Remains: An Interior Designer’s Reflection

Watching your work come to life is one of the greatest joys as a designer. But imagine turning on your television and seeing your designs—a layout painstakingly sketched, a color palette thoughtfully chosen, even your schematic floor plans—presented as someone else's creation. That’s exactly what happened to me.

The entry mood board, E-design rendering and final design as shown on the show.

Designing a home is more than picking pretty finishes or arranging furniture—it’s about pouring your heart into every detail, creating a story in every room, and making someone’s dream home come to life. That’s exactly what I did for this gorgeous colonial revival home in Syracuse, NY that was being eyed for demolition by the local government.

When a friend and colleague brought this home to me with the request for me to bring it back to its former glory, while also infusing their individual personality and style, I jumped into the project head-first. And thus, Project McAllister was born. From the moment I saw this stately home in person, I could feel it’s undeniable potential to be a beautiful home again. Reimagining it back to life was a labor of love that spanned months, and no matter what’s happened since, I’m incredibly proud of the work I did.

This historical house stood vacant for almost 30 years

The Beginning of Something, the End of Something Else

Here’s how it happened: after I finished the design for the first floor, my friend decided to use my design renderings to apply a television show—without my knowledge. In spite of that, I was pretty excited at first, thinking it would be an incredible showcase of all the work we’d done. And though I made it clear I wasn’t interested in being on camera, I expected to be credited. My friend had signed a contract with me months before that clearly laid out my intellectual property and professional copyright. I could’ve asserted this from the beginning (and in retrospect, I should have). But, I didn’t want to create a stir; I didn’t want to ruin this opportunity for my friend.

Pretty naively, I even helped them at the beginning of the process with the network’s production team, participating in multiple video calls and supplying design help outside of the scope of our original design agreement. All with the mind that I would be given a proper call-out in the credits of the show.

The truth of things was later revealed that the network was not interested in crediting me as the designer for this project, and my friend was not willing to fight for it either. It was a huge blow. And when the episode aired, as painfully expected, Abode Above’s name was nowhere to be found. Not once was it mentioned that they worked with an interior designer for months on the home’s design. What’s worse, my former friend was on camera taking credit for all of my design ideas. I think that part hurts most of all.

A Shining Design Comes to Life

The project’s first floor schematic design plan, an aerial view.

The kitchen, before demo

Even with that sting, though, I can’t help but feel proud of what I created.

That kitchen? A clear showstopper. I reimagined the whole layout, tearing down the walls to birth a larger, longer space that made room for a gorgeous kitchen with an island with waterfall counters. I configured a creative cabinet layout with plenty of storage and a beautiful copper farm sink. The terrazzo backsplash? A thoughtful and deliberate nod to her husband’s Italian heritage and a way to create visual interest for the shelves that would hang above the sink. I was so incredibly intentional about keeping the vibe timeless but fresh with the combination of old and new elements that spoke to it’s new life.

The kitchen mood board, E-design rendering and final design as shown on the show.

The living room, before demo

The before images of the living and dining room spaces are a poor illustration of just how dilapidated this space was, but through all of that I could still see the potential for cozy evenings in, lively dinner parties and treasured family memories. I imagined that it would become the heart of the home, featuring restored trim, rich colors, and cozy, layered textiles that balanced elegance with comfort. The most noticeable thing about the space was it’s bright and unique color story. I opted to use bright yellow and forest green on the walls and ceiling to modernize the traditional styling of its former glory. Though, in the end the design had some small changes, likely due to the network’s strict use restrictions, it was my design that shone through to create a gorgeous result.

The living room mood board, E-design rendering and final design as shown on the show.

The primary suite was a creative highlight—designed with a touch of whimsy and function, including a window bench seat with extra storage and a charming sense of comfortable luxury. The darkly bold bedroom, with its sensual and dramatic color story, is one of my favorite spaces. Its deep plum walls invite relaxation and a feeling of sophistication, proving that bedrooms can be more than just places to sleep—they can be statements, too.

The primary bedroom mood board, E-design rendering and final design as shown on the show.

The main bathroom, before demo

And the main bathroom? This small-footprint bath took advantage of a stunningly beautiful wallpaper paired with timeless tile that made it a true gem. The design delivered on blending classic style with a contemporary edge by repurposing an old dresser into a vanity and leaning into the use of bold colors. The navy and deep red color story in this space create a feeling of drama that makes this bathroom feel even more impressive.

The bathroom mood board, E-design rendering and final design as shown on the show.

Being an interior designer means pouring yourself into every design project, whether or not the world gives you the credit you deserve. It’s about the joy of creation, the passion for making spaces beautiful, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve done something meaningful. It’s bittersweet that I wasn’t along for the ride of the realization of my design vision for this home, but every idea that was brought to life was a piece of my soul.

Losing credit stings, but it doesn’t define me. If anything, it’s made me more determined to honor myself and my work moving forward. I’ll keep creating, keep pushing design boundaries, and keep loving this craft. Because at the end of the day, this is what I’m meant to do—and no one can take that from me.

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Where to Start Your Design Project: A Step-by-Step Guide from Your Go-To Interior Designer

Hey, boss! Ready to transform your space but not quite sure where to start? You’re not alone. Kicking off a design project can feel like a whirlwind, but it doesn’t have to be. I’m here to guide you through the process like a pro. So, let’s break it down, step by step, with a little designer wisdom sprinkled in (because that’s what I do!).

Step One: Get Clear on What You Want

Before you even think about paint colors, trendy Pinterest boards, or swatches scattered across your table, you’ve got to have a clear idea of what you’re truly after. Take a moment to think about how you actually use the space and how you want to feel when you step into it. Are you aiming for cozy and warm vibes that wrap around you like a favorite blanket? Or perhaps modern and sleek lines that create a refreshing ambiance? Remember, function meets style, baby, and I’ll be right here to help you discover that perfect sweet spot that makes your heart sing!

Designer Tip: Don't get hung up on trends right now. Focus on how you live and what brings you joy in your home. Trends come and go, but your happiness in your space is the goal!

Step Two: Set Your Budget (!)

Money talk! It’s not always a walk in the park, but it’s absolutely crucial to the success of your project. You should know how much you’re willing to invest upfront to avoid any surprises later. A realistic budget will help steer you toward the best decisions without overwhelming you as we progress mid-project. And here’s where I come in: I’ll work diligently within your budget while ensuring we make every single dollar count—whether we’re talking about that swoon-worthy statement couch you’ve been dreaming about or that affordable but fabulously chic light fixture you didn’t even know you needed.

Designer Tip: Always set aside a little extra (around 10-15%) for unexpected costs. Trust me, those surprises always pop up, and when they do, you’ll be ready.

Step Three: Define Your Style

This is where it starts to get wonderfully fun! Dive into a world of inspiration that ignites your creativity. Think deeply about the colors, textures, and designs that truly make your heart skip a beat with excitement. Is it all about that effortlessly minimalist vibe, creating a serene atmosphere? Or perhaps you’re more drawn to bold patterns and rich colors that make a statement and add personality to your space? This is the perfect opportunity for your unique taste to shine bright like never before. And don’t worry if you’re feeling a little stuck or unsure at any point. That’s exactly why I’m here by your side! Together, we'll work hand-in-hand to curate a stunning style that feels authentically, unmistakably you.

Designer Tip: Don’t just rely on Pinterest or Instagram. Think about places you’ve traveled, nature, art—these are all great sources of inspiration. And yep, I’ll be pulling ideas from all of those to create a space that’s one-of-a-kind.

Step Four: Create a Game Plan

It’s time to bring all your fabulous ideas together into a solid, cohesive plan. This is where we meticulously map out the project timeline, decide on key priorities, and figure out exactly what happens when. Whether we’re talking about a minor, refreshing update or a full-on, transformative remodel, having a clear roadmap truly keeps everything on track and ensures we stay organized throughout the entire design journey.

Designer Input: I’ll help you figure out what should happen first and how long things should realistically take (because HGTV makes it look way too fast and easy, am I right?). From ordering furniture to scheduling contractors, I’ll make sure you’re not missing a beat.

Step Five: Start Small, Dream Big

Don’t get overwhelmed by the whole project at once! Instead, start with just one room or even a cozy corner that inspires you. Focusing on one specific area at a time allows you to build confidence and see the delightful results much quicker—plus, it makes your design journey way more enjoyable and fun! Taking it step by step will let you savor each little victory along the way.

Designer Tip: I always suggest starting with a space that gets the most use or where you’ll notice the impact right away. Whether it’s your family room or bedroom, it sets the tone for the rest of the house.

Step Six: Make Selections (with a Designer’s Eye)

Now, it’s decision time! From selecting furniture to exploring paint swatches to choosing those perfect accessories, this is where everything truly starts coming together in a delightful way. It’s all too easy to get lost in the multitude of options here, but don’t worry—I’ll be your trusty compass guiding you through the process. We’ll ensure that each piece plays beautifully with

Designer Input: Trust me to be your expert eye here. Whether you’re buying that statement chair or just picking hardware, I’ll ensure it aligns with the overall vibe and keeps your project looking high-end, even if you’re working with a tighter budget.

Step Seven: Execution (a.k.a. Making Magic Happen)

This is where the rubber truly meets the road. After all the meticulous planning and careful choosing of colors, textures, and styles, it’s finally time to bring your unique vision to life in a vibrant way. I’ll enthusiastically guide you through any DIY aspects that you might want to tackle yourself or coordinate professional help if that’s needed to achieve the best results. And of course, I’m here for the entire process, making sure that nothing gets lost in translation and that your home reflects your personality beautifully.

Designer Tip: Be patient with the process. Great design doesn’t happen overnight, but the wait is totally worth it. From watching paint dry (literally!) to waiting on that custom couch, the magic unfolds piece by piece.

Step Eight: Add the Final Touches

Once the big pieces are thoughtfully arranged and in place, it’s finally time for the little details to truly shine and make their mark. Think about adding accessories, lush plants, vibrant artwork, and cozy textiles—this is where your space goes from merely nice to absolutely WOW. These final, carefully considered touches tie everything together beautifully, giving your home that polished, cohesive, and complete look that speaks to your unique style.

Designer Input: I’m here to make sure we’re not overdoing it. Less is often more, but when we do add something, it’ll make a statement.

And voila! You’ve done it. Take a moment (or several) to truly bask in the beauty of your newly designed space. This is where all the hard work and creativity come together and pay off, and you finally get to live in a home that genuinely feels like an authentic reflection of you and your unique style. Enjoy every corner and detail!

Designer Tip: Don’t forget to snap some pics and share your journey with me—I love seeing how your space transforms. Plus, we all know that “after” shots are everything.

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Working as a Staging Professional – A Designer’s Perspective

As an interior designer, I usually dive into projects that are all about personalizing a space, making it perfect for a homeowner's everyday life. But every now and then, I take on a different type of project – one that's fast-paced and driven by a whole different goal: staging.

Staging homes is like hitting pause on the usual creative process and switching gears. Instead of designing a space around someone’s unique tastes, the goal is to create a neutral, welcoming look that appeals to anyone walking through the door. And honestly, it’s a refreshing change of pace.

Step One: The Walkthrough

The process usually starts with an empty home or condo. My first task? Measuring and photographing every room from top to bottom. At this point, I’m not focused on style or aesthetics just yet. It’s all about capturing the space in its bare bones form so I can plan for the best furniture placement and flow later. This part may seem boring, but it's actually crucial to ensure everything comes together smoothly later on

Step Two: Designing for Appeal

Once I’ve got all the measurements and photos, it’s back to my office to design the staging plan. This is where it gets interesting – instead of designing for one family, I’m designing for everyone. The trick is to create a space that highlights the home’s best features without overshadowing them. Whether it’s choosing neutral-toned furniture to make a room feel bigger or adding small touches to cozy things up, every decision is about making the home feel inviting.

Step Three: Installation Day

Then comes the day where everything comes together: installation day. This is where the magic happens. Furniture and décor get delivered, and I jump right into setting everything up. It’s fast-paced – there’s often a tight deadline to meet before listing photos or an open house. But seeing an empty home transform into something beautiful in a matter of hours? That never gets old.

Why Staging is Essential

Staging may be a shift from my usual design projects, but it’s no less important – in fact, sometimes it’s even more crucial. A well-staged home can make a huge difference in how quickly it sells or gets rented. It allows potential buyers or renters to picture themselves living there, which is key when it comes to making that sale.

For clients and property owners, staging is a super convenient step. It takes the pressure off them to figure out how to present the home, while also making sure it looks its absolute best for viewings. And for me, it’s a chance to switch things up and use my skills in a different way. It’s a fun challenge to create a look that’s both neutral and eye-catching at the same time.

At the end of the day, whether I’m designing a home for someone to live in for years or staging one to sell, the goal is the same: to make a space feel full of potential. And with staging, it’s all about letting potential buyers or renters see the possibilities for themselves. Sometimes, giving a home that fresh, blank slate is just what it needs to tell its next story.

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Bold Statements and Vibrant Spaces: A Year-Long Interior Design Journey

View of the Dining room

Transforming a new construction home into a vibrant, creative haven is a journey that takes vision, patience, and an eye for drama—and this project had it all. Over the course of a year, I worked closely with the client to infuse bold colors, custom fixtures, and statement furniture into each room, creating a home that truly inspires. Let’s dive into how each space came together.

Dining Room: Regal Vibes, Bold Colors

The dining room was all about making a statement. We started with a rich teal feature wall, complete with custom millwork that adds a sleek, textured backdrop to the space. Then, we dialed up the drama with deep jewel tones, pairing velvety, curved dining chairs with a striking purple high-back throne at the head of the table. The furniture didn’t just invite you to sit; it demanded your attention. Adding an oversized mirror and chrome light fixture added a modern, reflective element to balance the bold colors. This room? Total regal vibes—dining in here feels like you’ve arrived in the most stylish place in the house.

View of the Sitting room

Sitting Room: Where Color and Comfort Meet

The sitting room is where we doubled down on drama. Those twin purple tufted sofas? Plush, cozy, and designed to make you feel enveloped in luxury. But they’re not just comfy; they’re a bold design move that transformed the space into a creative hub for the family. The teal accent wall creates the perfect backdrop for eye-catching, vibrant artwork that reflects the family’s energetic, artistic personality. The geo-patterned rug echoed in these adjacent rooms tied everything together with a bold graphic punch, grounding the spaces and adding just the right amount of edge. This room is an explosion of color, texture, and style that invites you to sink in and get inspired.

Living Room: High Drama and High Ceilings

In the living room, we took full advantage of the home’s soaring ceilings with oversized, colorful artwork that draws the eye upward. The custom two-story drapery in a soft turquoise pattern softened the room, adding a light, airy feel despite its impressive height. The neutral sectional grounds the room, while pillows in a mix of bold colors give it that signature pop without overwhelming the space. This room strikes the perfect balance between being sophisticated and approachable, making it an ideal spot for family time or casual entertaining.

View of the Living room

View of the Bedroom

Bedroom: Sophisticated with a Touch of Whimsy

For the bedroom, we went sleek and custom, designing built-ins that add both style and function. The matte black cabinetry brings a level of sophistication to the space, while the pops of color in the purple curtains and teal accents keep it playful. The round mirror above the custom desk provides a chic focal point, and the built-in lighting creates the perfect spot for a little creative work or late-night inspiration. The balance of clean lines and fun pops of color gives the bedroom a relaxed yet stylish vibe—just what the client needed to unwind and recharge.

View of the Loft

Each phase of this project was carefully crafted to ensure the home evolved alongside the family’s needs, resulting in a space that not only looks incredible but also inspires creativity. From bold colors to custom fixtures, this home is a perfect reflection of the family’s artistic spirit and vibrant energy. If you’re looking to turn your home into a space that inspires and energizes, I’ve got you covered!

View of the Eat-in Kitchen

I’m so grateful to work with clients who aren’t afraid to go bold with color and let their personality shine through in their spaces. Color is such a powerful tool in design—it can completely transform the mood and energy of a room. Whether it’s creating a serene retreat or an inspiring, energetic space, I love using color to make each project unique and meaningful. If you’re ready to embrace color in your home, I’m here to make your vision come to life!

Finding Your Home's Perfect Color Palette: Embrace Bold Colors and Textures

When it comes to decorating your home, choosing the right color palette is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The colors you choose can set the tone, create a mood, and reflect your personality. While it might be tempting to play it safe with neutral tones, there’s something truly magical about embracing bold colors and textures to add personality and style to your space. Here’s how you can find your home’s perfect color palette and make a statement.

1. Start with Inspiration

Before you start painting walls or buying furniture, gather some inspiration. Look through home décor magazines, Pinterest boards, and design blogs. Pay attention to the colors and textures that catch your eye. Are you drawn to deep, moody hues or bright, vibrant shades? Do you love the look of sleek, modern materials or cozy, textured fabrics? Creating a mood board can help you visualize your preferences and see how different colors and textures work together.

2. Consider Your Space

Think about the size and layout of your rooms. Bold colors can make a small space feel cozy and intimate, while lighter colors can open up a room and make it feel larger. Textures can also play a role in how a space feels; for example, a plush, textured rug can add warmth and comfort to a large, open room. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different textures to create depth and interest.

3. Choose a Color Scheme

Once you have a sense of what you like, it’s time to choose a color scheme. There are several classic approaches to color schemes that can help you create a cohesive look:

• Monochromatic: Stick to one color in varying shades and tones. This creates a sophisticated and harmonious look.

• Analogous: Choose colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. This creates a serene and comfortable design.

• Complementary: Pick colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. This creates a vibrant and dynamic look.

Remember, these are just guidelines. Feel free to break the rules and mix colors in a way that feels right for you.

4. Add Bold Accents

If you’re hesitant to go all-in with bold colors, start with accents. A brightly colored sofa, a bold piece of artwork, or a vibrant rug can make a big impact without overwhelming the space. You can also use bold colors in smaller details like throw pillows, curtains, and accessories. These pops of color can add energy and personality to your room.

5. Play with Texture

Textures can add another layer of interest to your color palette. Think about how different materials feel and look. Velvet cushions, woven baskets, metallic accents, and wooden furniture can all add texture and richness to your space. Mixing textures creates a more dynamic and engaging environment.

6. Test Before You Commit

Before you commit to a bold color or texture, test it out. Paint a small section of your wall or bring home fabric swatches and samples. See how they look in different lighting throughout the day. This can help you avoid any surprises and ensure you’re happy with your choices.

7. Trust Your Instincts

At the end of the day, your home should reflect your personal style and taste. Trust your instincts and choose colors and textures that make you happy. Don’t be afraid to take risks and make bold choices. After all, it’s your space, and it should feel uniquely yours.

By embracing bold colors and textures, you can create a home that’s full of personality and style. So go ahead, take the plunge, and let your creativity shine. Your perfect color palette is waiting to be discovered!