How did you end up in the design industry?
I was the stereotypical “design child” who loved redoing my bedroom every few months. I wasn’t sure interior design would make a great career, but my now mother-in-law encouraged me to give it a try after loving her own career in drafting.
While attending post-secondary school, I absolutely fell in love with residential design. For me, it’s all about solving the puzzle of how to make a client’s home the best fit for them and their family.
What does your team look like?
I’m the Design Lead, and I have a Design Assistant who helps with drafting and design work. I also have an Administrative Assistant who handles all things admin and helps keep our projects on track. In addition, I have someone who manages my social media, along with a separate copywriter.
Tell us about the project you're sharing.
This full-home renovation was designed to help a busy family fall back in love with their ’90s home. The existing layout felt very chopped up, with interior brick planters that went unused and sunken living rooms. The kitchen was also tiny, with very little storage. They wanted to revive their home with a timeless style that felt bright and airy while incorporating as many aging-in-place features as possible.
What was involved in this project?
This project involved an almost complete gut renovation of the main floor, updates to portions of the second floor, and transforming a basement that had become little more than a storage space. The home totals approximately 3,000 square feet, including the basement.
I was brought on by the contractor to rework the main floor layout, redesign the primary bedroom and bathroom on the second floor, and create a space plan for the basement. Once the layouts were finalized, I sourced all of the finishes and fixtures. The client also chose to furnish most of the home with all new furniture.
What's something you were really excited about creating for this project?
The family room fireplace wall with the built-ins on either side with arched openings.
Is there anything you changed about your business or processes as a result of this project?
This project changed the way I work with contractors who bring me onto their projects. I explain why I need full design control so the design process goes quicker and smoother, ultimately saving them time and money. Before this project, I was more likely to follow their lead, but I learned how time-consuming and difficult that made things.
What was your biggest learning from this project?
Do my own measurements for important items, like basement post placement, and don’t rely on the drawings given to me by someone else, whether the contractor or homeowner. Always doublecheck. I ended up having to redesign some of the basement elements to fit within post restrictions that I didn’t realize existed based on the drawings.
Is there a tool, tip, or business resource from Hot Young Designers Club that you use in your business?
I’m a proud Patreon member that is constantly improving my process and documents based on advice from other members. The monthly Hottie Hangouts are amazing.
Thank you, Chelsey Corea, for sharing more about your business and sharing this beautiful home with us! You can visit EBO Design on their website or Instagram.
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Photography: Homing Design Co., @homingdesign.co
Christina Louise Branding, @christinalouisebranding
