You all know by now how social media is a critical tool I use, and I love sharing not only MRI projects, my home, and family; recently, I took a walk down memory lane – scrolling ALL the way to the bottom of my Instagram. I was struck by how much has changed in my world as MRI has grown! I am continually evolving in both my personal and professional life.
Over the years, I have finessed my “signature” design aesthetic and evolved not only as an interior designer but also as a small business owner. In today’s Q&A, I am diving deep into the hows and whys. I believe it is essential to continue evolving as an interior designer and to understand how the interior design industry is evolving.
Q&A with Melissa Roberts, a Houston Interior Designer
How do you see yourself evolving as an interior designer?
Interior design is continuously evolving, which means that I have to stay current with not only the latest trends but also with the latest tech and how clients are evolving. I have ave so many ideas on where I want to take MRI, but I want to create something that benefits other designers, and that benefits clients. I can’t tell too much at this point but do know I am working hard to create something unique and special. Maybe I can even work on designing some furniture or rugs one day, the possibilities are endless, and I am just getting started!
*Click photo to see more about each project*
What has become your signature design aesthetic that clients request the most?
“I want my house to look just like yours” is probably what I hear most. As a new designer, it can be difficult to only work on one design style because you can’t be too selective, or you won’t have enough clients to survive. All clients I have worked with (no matter the style) have all asked me to modernize their homes. They aren’t necessarily saying they want to incorporate a Modern design (clean lines, wood, and earthy elements); they want to update the pieces in their home. Contemporary design is very popular, and one of my favorites!
How do you see MRI evolving in the future? Any upcoming collaborations/projects?
I would love to take MRI to the next level. Including what I touched on before, but also as a home décor “influencer.” Working with brands, I genuinely love bringing you the best deals, and I would love to get more involved in the latest trends!
With the ever-evolving web and interior design at your fingertips available through websites, why do you see the importance of utilizing an interior designer?
We live in an age where we can Google anything we want and have it in our home two days later. Interior designers bring a lot more than that to the table. As a designer, it’s essential to make sure my client loves the pieces that I incorporate into the room but ultimately, I need to use pieces that fit the room well too.
A client can buy a piece of art that she thinks is beautiful, no problem. But often the client doesn’t know what size of art to buy, or how to hang it properly, or that a piece of art is not what the wall needs after all. The internet allows me to reach clients all over the country and brings an even more affordable design service for those who don’t necessarily need a complete design package.
Rapid Fire Questions
What is one design element you could never tire?
Natural elements. That could range from live plants to metal pieces, ornate items, or wood.
What is one design element/feature you would love to see go away?
Antique Farmhouse
How do you get creative juices going?
I drink wine! Besides that, I listen to my clients and let them inspire me. Also, I love a good home magazine.
Is there a particular time of day you are more creative?
Evenings… don’t talk to me in the mornings, please!
What do you find most challenging when designing a home?
Typically, the biggest challenge is bringing my client’s dream to life within an unrealistic budget.
What are you most inspired by (design-wise)?
Travel! Landscapes, hotels, outfits, it all inspires me, and I love seeing different parts of the world.
Do you ever get burnt out? If so, how do you move past it?
Absolutely. The feeling is real, and it can be overwhelming. I take breaks, plain and simple. It is important that I block out time so I have freedom from work and can refocus on the most important thing: my family. Typically, I take the summers and Christmas time off. I have found that this leaves me inspired and ready to generate more business.
Advice from Melissa Roberts, founder of MRI
Any advice for “newer” designers for honing their “known” for style/design aesthetic?
Share your home, over and over! Let your home speak for your design style and share it with the world! I just had this conversation with another designer. Use social media to reach the world and creatively showcase your home. If people love your home, there’s a good chance they’ll call you to help with theirs!
For a more seasoned designer, do you think it is necessary to evolve/change their aesthetic?
Yes, if we don’t evolve while the world evolves, we will be stuck feeling defeated. I often see designers complain about the E-Design world and the ease with which clients can purchase products online. Instead of getting stuck in this trap, learn how to become part of the solution. I am actually excited to see how interior design evolves over the next few years.
One of my favorite sayings is, “If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you,” and that is how I view not only running my own business but also the world of interior design. If every project were easy and the same, truth be told, then this wouldn’t be the industry for me. The need to evolve as an interior designer constantly forces me to grow in both my professional and personal life, and for me, that’s the ultimate end goal. I look forward to hearing about how your style is evolving.