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 floorplans—presented as someone else's creation. That’s exactly what happened to me.
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.
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.