Whether we like it or not, fall is approaching. What interior design trends do you predict in the coming months? 

For fall, I've been seeing a lot of brighter, saturated hues such as jewel tone colors, brass, metal and lacquer. Designs are also taking a more feminine look, with lace and floral patterns.

However, I strongly believe that any home should follow its resident's personal aesthetic and needs rather than what is in style that year. This allows clients to create a space that is timeless, and which they will enjoy and appreciate year after year after year.

What would you like to see as a new design trend?

One of the new trends I see evolving in design is what we're referring to as "emotionally durable design," which is design that has a long shelf life.

What I think is a great asset and feature of emotionally durable design is that it allows clients to make investments on design which fit their own wants and needs, while being able to mix in inexpensive seasonal pieces.

In order to achieve this, I typically start with a neutral, monochromatic palette and spice it up with a few small "trendy" accents. For example, I like pairing a comfortable, neutral sofa against a neutral wall, with an accent colored or patterned pillow in that season's color. I also like selecting a trendy piece of artwork to hang or place in your family area.

To learn more about Reiko Lewis, visit her Haute Design Network profile, website and blog.

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Social media is a great tool and asset for any business professional, but particularly a great source of inspiration for those in the design field. In particular I find that a lot of my clients get ideas from social media outlets like Pinterest. Using these examples, I can work closely with them to translate these ideas into real-life designs that fit their specific needs.

I would recommend to clients or anyone planning an interior design project to turn to social media – if they haven’t already -- as a great outlet to spark creativity and get excited about design. One that I love is Houzz (www.houzz.com/) an online tool for home remodeling and design. Houzz connects homeowners with design enthusiasts and professionals from around the world, helping users get design inspiration, advice and information.

By using tools like Houzz and Pinterest you can find things that you haven’t thought of, color combinations you haven’t tried or new breakthroughs in interior design. It’s great to be able to take the best of things you do like and marry it together into a project that is truly your own!

How do you feel like social media has changed your industry and career? How do you use social media to your advantage?

Social media has changed the interior design world – I believe for the better. While I see the importance and benefit in utilizing social media for business, I understand the significant investment of time and resources it requires to do it right.

While I currently only utilize LinkedIn, there are definitely other social media tools out there that I would like to start using. For example, Pinterest is a great social media outlet to find, create and cull ideas and inspiration for future projects, as well as to share ideas from past projects with clients and others looking for ideas.

To learn more about Reiko Lewis, visit her Haute Design Network Profile and personal website.

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Insist on the right of humanity and nature to co-exist in a healthy, supportive, diverse and sustainable condition.

Recognize the interdependence of human design with the natural world, with broad and diverse implications at every scale.

Expand design considerations to recognizing even distant effects.

Accept responsibility for the consequences of design decisions.

Click here to read the full article and what drives her aesthetic. To learn more about Reiko Lewis, check out her Haute Design Network profile and personal website.

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Has there been a specific project that challenged you more than others? If so, what have you taken away from that project that has shaped you most as a designer?

The core values of Ventus Design are based on four core Japanese philosophies, which we put into practice on all projects we work on. One of these philosophies is “Wa” or harmony, which we believe is the key for a successful project. We take the time to help clients realize that “Wa” is the best way to help them meet their goals. From a practical point of view, the designer’s role is as a project leader, who leads, while bringing the team together (customer, suppliers and staff) and instilling each member with a level of pride in the contributions they make to the project.

When a client wants to select a designer, there are often many options to choose from. What do you offer your clients that no one else can?

We know that we are not a fit for everyone. Our clients tell us that our ability to involve them in translating their dreams, visions and goals into tangible and inspiring environments is the greatest benefit working with us. Because clients are invited and expected to play a specific role on the project team, we are able to help one another appreciate and realize both their aesthetic dream and business goals.

If you had to pick one color scheme that has most inspired you this season, what would it be? Why did it inspire you? Have you had the opportunity to use it in your work?

I believe in “harmony” or a balance in colors. If I have to play with one color though I would prefer a neutral such as a Dusk Blue or Gray Jade. They give off a serene yet sophisticated aura and create a good foundation for any project color scheme.

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Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

I think of design all day, every day. Design is something that is a part of my life. Walking along the street, nature inspires me. Appreciating art, reading poetry, experiencing unique cultures and philosophy and listening to the life experience of others also helps to inform my design.

Are you looking forward to following any new design trends this year?

Design trends are usually followed by new technological developments. I would like to be on top of the new technologies that lead to more sustainable products. Over all, I think they contribute to the increased well-being and happiness of residents and guests.

What should a client expect from you should they choose you as their interior designer?

I strongly believe that the design of a space should reflect that space’s culture, location and time. Today, many designs are “cookie cutter” without showcasing the special environment they are a part of. My designs are always simple, sophisticated, inspiring, stylish, warm, inviting and elegant, and they always reflect a true sense of place and time while remaining “timeless.”

To learn more about Reiko Lewis, check out her Haute Design Network Profile and www.ventusdesignhonolulu.com

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