Designer insights with Karen Nielsen

Karen Nielsen is a professional home stager working from her brand Dandy Pack, that takes the inconvenience out of home staging. Karen offers an easy and manageable staging solution using light weight furniture. Her furniture looks amazing, yet weighs considerably less. This makes each piece ideal for delivery to a new project or for intricately positioning in a new interior. The majority of her products are made using corrugated cardboard and are made using 75% recycled materials. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Karen Nielsen.

Designer Insights - Karen Nielsen

Image Credit: 1) Joybird 2) All Modern 3) Benjamin Moore Tissue Pink 4-5) Uncommon Goods

- Transcript -

1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?

Not that it's particularly unique, but I like design that is clean and simple with an obvious purpose.

2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?

I am constantly surveying my surroundings for inspiration that I keep like little idea bulbs in the back of my mind for future use. A new project usually then starts with a cup of hot strong black coffee and a little daydreaming to bring those ideas into play.

3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?

It's probably cliche, but I am going to have to say my husband. He is the most resourceful designer that I have ever met. He can make amazing things out of items I would have thrown in the trash.

4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?

I imagine I have infinite resources at my disposal (because I am nothing like my husband-haha!). This helps to eliminate stress which is my creative block and frees my mind to be open to endless possibilities.

5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?

Fate, fortune, and misfortune. I did not choose many of the twists and turns that we have faced but have learned to adapt to what comes my way. It is helpful to be prepared with a good business plan but understand that it needs to be flexible enough to allow for unforeseen circumstances and opportunities. Try to remember to enjoy the journey, even in the difficult times.