Beyond the Showrooms: How High Point Market Elevates My Design Process

Lovely day when my friend Debbe Daley and I met Dr Susy Paisley, founder of Newton Paisley. Her stunning designs share the stories of endangered and overlooked species while celebrating their remarkable diversity and beauty.

Every year, High Point Market (HPMKT) is a must-attend event for interior designers, but for me, it’s more than just a trade show—it’s an experience that inspires my designs, strengthens my vendor relationships, and expands what I can offer my clients.

From the moment I step onto the show floors, I’m not just browsing furniture—I’m curating an experience for my clients. The sofa I sink into today might be the one a family gathers on for movie nights in their home theater. The textile I run my hands over might be the one that makes a bedroom feel like a luxury retreat. And those stunning acoustic panels? They’ll be part of a space that not only looks incredible but sounds just as amazing.

Vendor Relationships: The Backbone Of A Designer’s Work

Always love visiting with my friend Carol who founder Red Egg Furniture to share a cultural and design aesthetic that truly inspires her. Asian inspired with a twist, a true gem at HPMKT!

As a designer, I don’t work alone—I have an entire network of skilled vendors, artisans, and manufacturers that help me bring my vision (and my clients’ dreams) to life.

HPMKT gives me the chance to put a name to the faces behind these brands and build relationships that make all the difference. When I need a custom dining table for a unique space or the perfect performance fabric that balances beauty and durability, I know exactly who to call. These relationships allow me to source better, problem-solve faster, and offer my clients exclusive options that aren’t just beautiful, but built to last.

Opportunities To Learn & Grow

I absolutely loved meeting Price Latimer, co-founder of Alkemis Paint a Cradle to Cradle Certified®, it is ethically crafted to promote cleaner breathing and a more harmonious lifestyle.

One of the most valuable aspects of HPMKT is the training and education available. As designers, we never stop learning—about materials, innovations, sustainability, and the psychology of spaces.

Workshops and panels offer insights into emerging design trends, business strategies, and sourcing secrets. The best part? These lessons don’t just stay at Market—they influence the way I approach every project.

A Hands-On Approach To Design

Spending time with Splashworks’ Tom Van Dessel.  We created one of a kind pieces for a lovely client who had the artwork commissioned for his project. It is relationships like these that help me curate one-of-a-kind experiences for my clients.

There’s only so much you can see in a catalog or online—design is a sensory experience. At Market, I can:
✔ Touch and feel the textiles that will drape my clients' windows.
✔ Test out the ergonomics of a chair that will sit in a home office for hours a day.
✔ Hand-select the artwork that will become the focal point of a space.
✔ Examine the details of a casegood, ensuring the craftsmanship meets my standards.

This hands-on approach ensures that when I present options to my clients, I know exactly what I’m recommending—because I’ve sat in it, felt it, and seen it in person.

Expanding What I Can Offer My Clients

Lighting by Schwung

Every trip to HPMKT adds another layer to what I bring to my clients. I return with:
✨ Fresh ideas and inspiration from beautifully curated showrooms.
✨ Stronger relationships with vendors and manufacturers.
✨ Exclusive access to new products before they hit the mainstream market.
✨ Confidence in my selections, knowing I’ve personally tested and approved them.

Design isn’t just about making a space look good—it’s about creating an experience, enhancing functionality, and delivering quality that stands the test of time.

Looking Ahead To HPMKT 2025

This year is extra special because I’ll be leading an Insider’s Tour at HPMKT! Seven years ago, I attended my first Market as a tour participant, and now, I have the opportunity to guide new buyers through this incredible experience. It’s a full-circle moment, and I can’t wait to help others build the relationships and insights that have been so valuable to me.

If you’re a first-time attendee, I’d love to connect and help you navigate this exciting event. Whether you’re on my tour or just attending Market, I encourage you to explore, ask questions, and take full advantage of the opportunities here.

HPMKT isn’t just about furniture—it’s about building a foundation for better design, stronger businesses, and long-lasting partnerships. And I, for one, can’t wait to be back.

📢 Are you attending High Point Market this year? Let’s connect! Drop a comment or send me a DM!

Register for the Spring High Point Market Insiders Tour

Designing a Vacation Rental That Feels Like Home: Blending Luxury and Functionality

A vacation rental should be more than just a place to stay; it should be an experience. For owners, it’s about creating a space that feels like home for their guests while maintaining the sophistication and functionality that luxury travelers expect. Here’s how to achieve the perfect balance.

Section 1: Prioritize Comfort and Style

• Invest in quality furniture that combines durability with elegance. Pieces with clean lines and neutral tones create a timeless appeal.

• Use textiles like plush throws, soft area rugs, and high-thread-count bedding to make guests feel pampered.

Section 2: Add Local Flair

• Incorporate elements inspired by the local culture or natural surroundings. For example, coastal rentals can use driftwood accents and ocean-inspired colors.

• Showcase regional art to create a sense of place and elevate the design.

Section 3: Functionality Is Key

• Create multi-purpose spaces that cater to different guest needs, such as a living area that doubles as a workspace.

• Design with families in mind by including features like kid-friendly furniture or durable finishes that withstand wear and tear.

Section 4: ROI-Driven Design

• Focus on amenities that enhance guest satisfaction and justify premium pricing, like spa-like bathrooms or a chef’s kitchen.

• Use cohesive, professional-grade design to increase bookings and positive reviews.

Conclusion
Blending luxury and functionality ensures your vacation rental stands out in a competitive market. With the right design, you can create a space that not only feels like home but also maximizes your return on investment.

Designer-Assisted AI: A New Way to Inspire

We’re excited to share that the images featured in this article were created using Designer-Assisted AI technology. This innovative approach allows us to visually communicate our design concepts while ensuring they reflect our professional standards and creative vision.

By blending human creativity with cutting-edge AI tools, we can showcase ideas that inspire and guide your journey toward transforming your spaces into luxurious, functional retreats.

If you’d like to learn more about how these designs can come to life in your own property, feel free to reach out to us!

Saint Johns,Florida Kitchen Renovation: Making Your Home a True Reflection of Your Life

Your home is more than just a place to live; it’s a reflection of your lifestyle, history, and aspirations. A well-designed home should tell your story and support your daily activities and future goals. Today, we’ll explore how to achieve this balance, showcasing a recent kitchen renovation that perfectly embodies the unique journey of its owners.

Understanding Your Lifestyle and Goals

Before diving into design, it’s crucial to assess your lifestyle needs and future goals. Consider how you use your space daily and what changes could enhance your life. Do you love entertaining guests? Is cooking a passion? Do you need areas for relaxation or work? By understanding these aspects, you can create a home that supports and enhances your activities and aspirations.

Making Sure Your Home Reflects Your Lifestyle, History, and Goals

A great addition to this kitchen was the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine.

Our featured project involves a kitchen renovation for a couple who loves traveling, coffee, conversation, and hosting friends. Their original kitchen was closed off and lacked the flow needed for their lifestyle. The renovation aimed to open up the space, creating a seamless transition between the kitchen and living area. This design encourages conversation and makes entertaining effortless, reflecting the couple’s love for hosting and their adventurous spirit. A great addition to this kitchen was the Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine, it allows everyone to grind fresh coffee beans and make their favorite cup, effortlessly and with almost no cleanup at all! The coffee maker coordinates with the other finishes in the space, since we outfitted the kitchen with Café Appliances.

Infusing Personal History into Design

Curated Collection of Treasures:
The couple’s travel treasures are prominently displayed in the kitchen, adding personality and charm. These items tell their unique story and create conversation starters. Integrating personal artifacts into your home design not only adds character but also makes the space feel truly yours.

Copper Farmhouse Sink:
Choosing this antique copper farmhouse Quiroga Antique Copper Sink, by Tompson Traders, added historical significance and timeless appeal to the kitchen. This feature ties into the couple’s appreciation for history and enduring elements, creating a focal point that blends functionality with aesthetic value.

The stars of the show: Tompson Traders Quiroga Antique Copper Sink, and Dune Ceramics beautiful, and durable terracotta tiles.

Spanish Tile:
The Spanish tile by Dune Ceramics used in the renovation brings cultural richness and timeless elegance to the kitchen. It reflects the couple’s travels and adds a unique character to the space. Incorporating such elements ensures the design is both personal and enduring.

Creating a Welcoming and Functional Space

The open layout of the renovated kitchen promotes a seamless flow, inviting conversation and making entertaining effortless. Rich textures and personalized accents create a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. These design choices not only enhance functionality but also make the space a reflection of the couple’s lifestyle and goals.

The Role of a Designer

Working with a designer who listens to your priorities and integrates them into the design is vital. A good designer helps you create a space that tells your story and supports your daily life. In this project, the renovation was a collaborative process, resulting in a kitchen that perfectly embodies the couple’s journey and passions.

Let’s Peace It Together

A well-designed home should reflect your lifestyle, history, and goals. By personalizing your space and choosing elements that tell your story, you create a home that is not only beautiful but also functional and meaningful. If you’re planning a renovation, consider how your home can support your daily activities and aspirations while reflecting on your unique journey.

Let’s Start Your Design Journey, Contact Us for a Discovery Call

We’d love to hear your design stories and experiences. Share them in the comments below! If you’re ready to create a home that truly reflects your lifestyle and goals, contact us for a consultation. Don’t forget to check out our previous blog post on timeless design choices for a lasting home.