Michele Salazar
Photo Credit: @YSV_Photo / Yara Virreira
Michele (Cozy) Salazar was born in Miami, Florida, daughter of Suzanne “Sissy” De Maria and Joseph De Maria. Her childhood nickname “Cozy” stuck, evoking the warmth and charm she exudes. "Cozy" eventually evolved into her burgeoning brand name.
Michele recently took the time to formally introduce herself and explain a bit of her design philosophy and what she envisions for the future of Cozy Salazar.
Haute Design: If you could describe your design style in three words, what would they be?
Michele Salazar: Traditional meets contemporary.
HD: When was the first moment you realized you wanted to become an interior designer?
MS: My mother says my birthday request was always to redo my bedroom growing up. We still have my "dream bedroom" I drew when I was about 10 years old!
HD: What would you consider to be the most crucial moment in the design process?
MS: I would say the important stages are:
- Establishing your clients' wants and needs while managing their expectations.
- Remaining organized throughout the duration of the project. Organization is vital to a successful outcome. In design, there are so many moving parts, so keeping everything tight and organized is the best way to avoid any unnecessary complications or misunderstandings.
Photo Credit: @YSV_Photo / Yara Virreira
HD: Describe your ideal relationship with a client.
MS: It's so important for me to connect with a client. My ideal relationship with my clients is one where they feel heard and understood, that way they know their wants and needs are my priority when working on their project. When a client knows you have their best interest at heart, they are more comfortable and as a result, more trusting of your vision. Trust is key! If the client doesn't trust you, they won't be willing to stretch out of their comfort zone, and that is where the magic happens!
HD: Which is your favorite space to design in a home? Why?
MS: Every room is so important. I suppose the kitchen or dining room. Both spaces bring people together and offer up a unique set of requirements. For example, a client with small children who wants a very formal dining room but needs practicality, or a couple with conflicting ideas for their kitchen (one spouse wants minimal design and the other, a chef's kitchen). Each special request offers up a fun challenge and allows us to stretch our creativity.
HD: What is your vision for the future of Cozy Salazar?
MS: I would love for our team to continue to grow. Every project is more exciting when there are multiple creative minds working together. It's always incredible to look over the progress of a project from our initial vision to the final. This is often due to collaboration and different perspectives. Additionally, it's important to me that we stay true to our style and edge. We are not 'one style fits all' here. We are constantly mixing looks and styles, which is what makes us unique.
If you are interested in booking Cozy Salazar Interiors for an upcoming project or wish to earn more about Michele Salazar, CLICK HERE.
