Karen Wirrig is the founder and owner of Karen Cole Designs, a design firm specialising in interior design for homeowners, boutiques and offices. Karen specialises in full condo refurbishing and even offers a complete condo furnishings package. Karen is an active member of the Arizona Chapter of the International Furnishings and Design Association, and was elected as a Director for three years in 2005. Her work has even been featured in local magazines and publications. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Karen Wirrig.
Image Credit: 1) Dakota Jackson 2) Linea Verdace 3) Pierre Frey 4) Sophie Hallette 5) Acrila
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I prefer a cleaner aesthetic as I believe that promotes a calmer and happier life. I personalize each design to the client’s lifestyle and the architecture of the space.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I like to take clients to design centers to see what excites them. You can look online all you want but you need to see things in person to know if you can live with them.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
Interior designers are influenced and inspired by many people they have not personally worked with. Dakota Jackson for his amazing creativity; Karim Rashid for his relentless drive; Candice Olson for her professional command of design on television and for introducing good lighting to the masses; Tim Gunn for his willingness to take a new path at a time when many people are considering shutting down; And my IFDA colleagues.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I think back to what I’ve seen in my travels that may be relevant to this client. Or visit an art gallery or museum for inspiration; trade shows give me lots of new ideas too.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I continue to be excited with each new project. Listening to clients is SO important. Understand their priorities and then create a design plan to make their space better than they imagined. It is our job to introduce them to new ideas while still allowing their voice to be heard.
