Welcome back to another episode of Bee-Spoke with Anthony Hellman! On this week’s segment of ‘Bee-Spoke with Experts’, Anthony invites guest Jessica Kelly on the podcast! Jessica is the owner of Jessica Kelly Designs, a full service interior design firm in Toronto with over 15 years of experience, committed to a thoughtful and individualized design philosophy.
The episode kicks off with a glimpse into Kelly's journey into the world of design, revealing a serendipitous path that led her from a marketing background to pursuing her passion for interior decorating. Kelly's design philosophy revolves around the concept of "contemporary with character," where she combines approachable, comfortable contemporary spaces with unique, bespoke elements like antiques and vintage pieces. Throughout the conversation, Kelly emphasizes the importance of personalization and creating spaces that feel truly one-of-a-kind.
A highlight of the episode is Kelly's invaluable advice for budding designers, particularly stressing the significance of acquiring business acumen alongside design skills. She encourages aspiring designers to invest in courses and programs that cover pricing, contracts, and project management, citing her own experience of learning from mistakes and carving out a niche in the competitive design industry.
The discussion delves into the intricacies of client relationships and the vital role of effective communication in ensuring successful projects. Kelly shares anecdotes of memorable projects and clients, underscoring the significance of building trust and rapport with both clients and suppliers. She also candidly discusses challenges she has faced, emphasizing the importance of accountability and problem-solving in maintaining credibility within the industry.
Moving onto another fun topic; colour trends and what Kelly is enjoying working with right now! Kelly predicts a shift towards richer, deeper hues in interior design, departing from the neutral colour palettes that have dominated recent years. She expresses excitement for the resurgence of colours like buttery yellows and deep greens, signalling a departure from the monotonous greys and beiges of the past.
As the episode draws to a close, Kelly provides insights into her company's approach to project management and client engagement, emphasizing transparency and efficiency throughout the design process.
We hope you enjoy this episode as it offers a captivating exploration of the multifaceted world of interior design, featuring expert insights and practical advice from one of the industry's leading voices. Whether you're a seasoned designer or a design enthusiast, this episode promises to inspire and inform, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the art of crafting bespoke spaces.
Got a topic you’d like Anthony to cover on the podcast? Send your questions to our instagram at @Studio321B and be sure to check out Jessica Kelly Designs using the social links below!
Jessica’s Links: