How did you end up in the design industry?
I always loved design and I was definitely an artsy kid. Once I realized this could be a career, I didn’t look back! I went to school for it and have a career of 15+ years in the field.
What does your team look like?
It’s me and my part-time project manager, Christie Florio, who is a GEM!
Tell us about the project you're sharing.
I met the client as a daycare parent (our sons were friends at the same daycare), and I developed a friendship with her outside of that. Then she moved away… but I was surprised when she reached out a year later inquiring about our services for her new house! They hadn’t done anything with the place, and the client really wanted to make it homey for her, her husband, and their two boys. I instantly understood the assignment. Missy wanted something country chic but not maximalist—a fresh, modern take on country chic with pastel-like colors. The living room had many openings, so it was hard to plan. Their back sitting room had a weird layout and was not being well-utilized or maximized. And their foyer could do more. We infused their essence into their space with our design, and they are so happy with the results!
What was involved in this project?
We worked on their sitting room, living room, and foyer, mixing pattern and color to match our clients’ sunny personality. We loved meeting with the client (who said yes to everything —especially the pricey wallpaper!) We upholstered an existing chaise with Studio Four fabric and transformed the sunroom into a cozy TV room that’s now full of color, bright sunny patterns, and decor. I design all of my projects and get help with the execution from our Project Manager, Christie—and this was one of her first projects. She did an amazing job!
What's something you were really excited about creating for this project?
The wallpaper in the foyer with Rebecca Atwood wallpaper. It was truly the perfect color!
What was your biggest learning from this project?
When people are secure in your abilities, there’s barely any pushback. From the beginning, the client had a very clear vision so I wasn’t left guessing who my client was, or what they wanted.
Is there a tool, tip, or business resource from Hot Young Designers Club that you use in your business?
I’ve begun to add a Purchasing Guide, and this may have been the first project I used it with. When it came to discussing money, they felt very prepared based on all the resources I sent them.
Thank you Abigail Horace for sharing more about your business and sharing this beautiful home with us! You can visit Casa Marcelo Interior Design Studio on their website or Instagram.
Designers, we want to learn more about you and see your recent projects! Click here to submit a project to be featured on Hot Young Designers Club
Photography: Rachel Robshaw, @rachel_robshaw
