We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Cristie Schlosser a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Cristie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

Go the extra mile. Details, follow up and tenacity are what it takes to be a successful interior designer. Interior designers responsibilities include every aspect of a project and running a business. Missing any detail can derail your project and upset your client. Client’s hire the interior designer because of their expertise and style. Creativity is 20% of the job. Percision, communication, details and business accumen are the remaining 80%.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

We launch SDG (Schlosser Design Group, LLC) in 1998, working on a variety of spaces from residential remodels to light commercial work such as medical offices. As we gained success, we developed expertise in kitchen and bath design and custom cabinetry as well as custom furniture and lighting. By redesigning existing spaces we were able to better utilize the flow and function of any area. In the early 2000s we were designing frameless cabinetry that was not widely used in the US. By doing so, we were able to create unique cabinetry solutions that consumers expect today, in 2023. Our designs are simple when viewed but complicated to create. That’s the beauty of Modern and Contemporary design. You can’t hide mistakes – therefore, construction must be done correctly. Working with trades that go the extra mile and appreciate technical design are our best partners. We are proud of being on the forefront of design. Because we are client/project driven, we don’t let the products drive our designs. We find solutions that fit our client’s needs and we work tirelessly to make sure our projects are implemented and very intentional.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Our reputation was built on our positive client, trade and showroom relationships. Our professional approach and getting input and feedback from all partners involved makes us better at completing our projects with excellent outcomes. We have won multiple awards for our designs which has allowed us to gain respect from our peers. I’ve been active in the design community serving on the board of ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) and NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association). Building relationships in the industry is key and always respecting others and showing kindness is our goal.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Involvement in the community and attending social events where I have the opportunity to engage with friends and their broader social network. Referals are the best source of new clients. From time-to-time, direct mailings have also lead to new clients. The mailings are targeted to neighborhoods I am working in or I live in so that our name is familiar.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://schlosserdesign.net/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schlosserdesign/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SchlosserDesign/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristieschlosser/

Image Credits
Michael Hunter Photography Heacox Photography