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

Jessica, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

Success in interior design goes beyond just having a creative eye. It requires a mix of qualities and skills. Creativity is important, but being innovative and thinking outside the box is what truly sets top designers apart. A solid grasp of business principles, including marketing, finance, and legal aspects, is crucial for running a successful business. Strong interpersonal skills are needed to build and maintain relationships with clients, contractors, and vendors, while effective communication helps manage expectations.

Financial management is key to keeping projects on budget, and project management skills are necessary to oversee all the moving parts of a design project. The ability to handle conflicts calmly and effectively can make or break a project’s success. A deep understanding of construction processes and materials ensures that designs are not only beautiful but also practical and durable. Managing stress, both your own and your clients’, is essential for a positive work environment. Lastly, staying adaptable and updated with industry trends and technologies keeps you competitive.

Balancing these aspects can be challenging, but mastering them is essential for success in the interior design industry.

Jessica, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My journey into the world of interior design began with a passion for creating beautiful and functional spaces. From a young age, I was fascinated by how different elements within a room could come together to create a harmonious environment. This curiosity led me to pursue formal education in interior design, where I honed my skills and learned the intricacies of the craft.

Before venturing into interior design, I attended business school and gained valuable experience working in finance. I also worked on a construction site, which gave me a deep understanding of the practical aspects of building and renovation. These diverse experiences have equipped me with a well-rounded skill set that I bring to every project.

Products and Services
Today, my business offers a wide range of services designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients. These include:
Residential Interior Design: From single rooms to entire homes, we create personalized spaces that reflect each client’s unique style and personality.
Renovation and Remodeling: We manage and execute renovation projects, ensuring a seamless transformation from old to new.
New Build Construction: We collaborate with architect to handle new build construction projects, from initial design to final build, ensuring a cohesive and streamlined process.
Consultation Services: For clients who need professional advice or a second opinion, we offer consultations to guide them through their design decisions.

Problem-Solving for Clients
One of the main problems we solve for our clients is turning their vision into reality. Many people have ideas about what they want their spaces to look like but struggle with how to achieve it. We bridge that gap by providing expert guidance, detailed planning, and professional execution. Additionally, we help clients manage the stress and complexities that come with design projects, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

What Sets Us Apart
Our holistic approach to design and comprehensive project management services set us apart. We believe a successful design is not just about aesthetics but also functionality, comfort, and sustainability. Our designs are tailored to meet each client’s specific needs and preferences, ensuring that every project is unique and personalized.

We manage everything from permit drawings and submissions to contractor procurement, budget management, and FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment). This end-to-end service ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience for our clients, allowing them to focus on enjoying the transformation of their space without the stress of managing the numerous details involved.

Proud Achievements
I am particularly proud of our designs’ positive impact on our clients’ lives. It is incredibly rewarding to see their joy and satisfaction when they see their transformed spaces.

Key Messages for Potential Clients and Followers
Personalized Approach: Every project is tailored to meet our clients’ unique needs and preferences.
Comprehensive Services: From design and planning to execution and management, we handle every aspect of the project.
Client-Centric Focus: Our clients’ satisfaction is our top priority. We strive to exceed their expectations in every project.
Passion and Expertise: With a deep passion for design and years of expertise, we bring creativity and professionalism to every project.
Through our work, we aim to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also improve the quality of life for our clients. We are dedicated to making their vision a reality and ensuring the design process is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

My reputation in the market has been shaped by a combination of my personal experiences, practical approach, and commitment to respect and transparency. I didn’t grow up in a home filled with high-end designs or extravagant budgets. Instead, my background was grounded in the essentials and functionality. This perspective has deeply influenced my approach to interior design, where I believe that great design isn’t about having a champagne budget—it’s about being resourceful and making the most out of what you have.

I pride myself on being down-to-earth and relatable. I understand that not everyone has unlimited resources. I am committed to working within my clients’ budgets and making sure that every dollar is spent wisely. My straightforward communication style helps set clear expectations and ensure that everyone involved in the project is on the same page.

Respect is at the core of my interactions. I treat all my tradespeople and representatives with the utmost respect, recognizing their expertise and contributions to the project. My hands-on experience, including working on construction sites, has given me a practical understanding of how things are built and the cost implications of different design choices. This practical knowledge allows me to create designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also cost-effective and feasible.

Ultimately, my goal is to show appreciation and respect to everyone I work with while delivering designs that are both beautiful and functional within the budget constraints. This approach has helped me build a strong reputation for being a practical, honest, and respectful professional in the industry.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team is undoubtedly challenging. Different personalities, communication styles, and backgrounds can create a complex dynamic that requires careful navigation. I’ll be honest—this can be tough, and I sometimes struggle with it. However, I’ve learned some key strategies that help maintain high morale and effective team management.

Lead by Example: One of the most important things I do is show my own dedication and commitment to the team. I hold myself to high standards and strive to demonstrate the work ethic and attitude I expect from my team. This helps in setting a positive tone and encouraging others to follow suit.

Set Clear Expectations: I have high expectations and am known for being a tough boss. It’s important to communicate these expectations clearly and consistently. While this can be demanding, it also ensures that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.

Embrace Mistakes as Learning Opportunities: Everyone makes mistakes, and viewing these as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks is essential. Encouraging a culture where mistakes are seen as learning experiences helps build resilience and fosters continuous improvement.

Understand and Appreciate Differences: It is crucial to recognize and value the different personalities and backgrounds of team members. By understanding and appreciating these differences, I can harness each individual’s unique strengths to create a well-rounded and effective team.

Be Willing to Apologize and Learn: As a leader, it’s important to admit when you’re wrong and apologize when necessary. I believe in owning up to my mistakes and acknowledging that I’m still learning and growing. This openness fosters trust and shows the team that I’m human and approachable.

Ultimately, maintaining high morale involves balancing clear expectations, mutual respect, and continuous learning. By focusing on these aspects, I strive to build a supportive and motivated team that can achieve great things together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jessicabremnerdesign.com
• Instagram: @jessicabremnerdesign
• Facebook: Jessica Bremner Design

Image Credits

Ishot
Ema Peters Photography