Photo Credit: Matt Delphenich

Leslie Saul recently discussed how she approaches each design project and shared some lessons she has learned throughout her successful career.

Haute Design: You have nearly 30 years of experience in running and operating your own design and architecture firm. What is the most valuable lesson you have learned during that time?

Leslie Saul: Do the right thing, even if it's hard. You will build trust and loyalty with your clients, suppliers, vendors, contractors, artisans and employees.

HD: What is your favorite part about serving the Cambridge, Massachusetts region?

LS: We love New England and South Florida! While people might associate New England's climate with snow storms, it is the design climate here that makes our work so fun. Additionally, our clients and team members are extraordinarily smart and collaborative.

HD: When approaching a new design project, what is the first thing on your mind?

LS: Who are the people who will be living in this house? What makes them different from other clients? Even if we have done the same program many times, each client and each site or setting is different. We specialize in additions and major renovations, so we think about the big picture to start. Later, we think about some wonderful, personalized details that can make a difference in our clients' lives.

Photo Credit: Matt Delphenich

HD: What is typically the most difficult room to work on within an interior design project?

LS: The hardest rooms to design are the multi-purpose rooms. My theory of 'keep it simple' is put to the test when one space must serve many uses. We were hired to design a studio apartment in Manhattan, and there was a whole lot of living going on in a small space. Whenever faced with the impossible, I think about the creativity of the RISD environment and try to imagine, 'what can be?'

HD: To what do you attribute the continued success of your firm?

LS: When you like to create bespoke spaces tailored to your clients' needs and dreams, and when you like to work collaboratively with the client and the team of builders and the artisans who bring those dreams to life, it's so much fun! The process is part of the fun of making good design. Luckily, our wonderful clients keep coming back for more.

Also, I try to express my appreciation for everyone involved in every project. My mother taught me to write thank you notes.

Photo Credit: Matt Delphenich

The post Leslie Saul & Associates do Right by their Clients appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.

Photo Credit: Alex Zapirain Designs

Alex Zapirain, founder and Principal at his eponymous design firm, shared his initial experience in the design world and what he hopes to accomplish this year.

Haute Design: What is your first memory within the design industry?

Alex Zapirain: My very first memory within the design industry was life changing for me. It was actually a very challenging project in Miami. It was an ultra-modern and minimalist space and I believe it awoke my great passion for design. The experience definitely got me more into the design and architectural field and led me to explore and grow within the industry.

HD: What do you love most about your job?

AZ: I love the fact that I don't have to work a day in my life. My work is my life and I love to challenge myself with every project. Every day is a new learning experience which definitely requires teamwork.

Photo Credit: Alex Zapirain Designs

HD: To what do you attribute the success of your firm?

AZ: Definitely all the hard work and dedication contributed on behalf of every client. We do our best to deliver the quality of work each project deserves. Our team puts their souls and passion for architecture and design into every project.

HD: What do you believe is your strongest quality as a designer?

AZ: I would say I listen closely to every client's needs. Aside from my passion for design, I would say that practicality and functionality are key to me.

Photo Credit: Alex Zapirain Designs

HD: What is your goal for 2022?

AZ: Our goal will be to complete new and exciting projects which are already underway. I look forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone for some of these projects. It should be a pretty busy year ahead but full of excitement.

The post Alex Zapirain is the Successful Designer who Doesn’t Work a Day in his Life appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.