Get to Know Your Designer: Stephanie Charest
Photography by: Up and Away Studios
1. What is your opinion on the rule of thirds? Is it ever okay to style in pairs instead?
I like to break rules, so if it makes sense then yes, pairs can work (like hanging two large pendants over an island). But more often than not, the rule of thirds is necessary.
2. What’s something you're tired of?
Grey! I’m loving the warmer neutrals and earth tones that we are seeing now. There are so many options to combine colours and shades for a really beautiful space. But if you have committed to grey in a past renovation or update, add in cognac leather and mushroom tones to switch things up.
3. What does creativity mean to you?
It is life giving! I NEED to create. I’m sure the people around me can tell that my mood sours if I don’t get a chance to create… so being involved in client projects and the design (not just the management) is really crucial for me to remain a happy person!
4. What is your favourite part of a project?
I love it when we’re at a fabric showroom and we start playing and it all just starts to come together! That's when I get excited! The combination of colours, textures, and patterns is how I see a home come to life. I always say “it isn’t your baseboards that make you happy.” It’s the details like the cushions, fabrics, and textures that give your space that feeling of home.
5. What’s your morning ritual?
Photography by: Up and Away Studios
My alarm goes off at 5:30 am. I typically spend too much time on my phone but sometimes I get up and get a workout in so I can shower by 7 at the latest. I make a smoothie, shower, get ready and I’m out the door by 8. Then I make coffee and answer emails before the rest of the team gets here.
6. What’s your favorite design “trend” of all time?
While I don’t worry too much about trends the one thing that’s entered the scene and seems to have staying power is coloured or wood toned cabinets. While white cabinets will potentially always reign supreme, clients are definitely much more open to colour and natural wood in their kitchens again.
7. Who is your favourite designer to follow?
Jason Saft. He’s a designer in New York and Brooklyn that stages luxury apartments to list for sale. His before & afters are to die for! I LOVE seeing his transformations and what kind of design the people of NYC are into. Plus it’s pretty astounding to see the listing price after he’s worked his magic!
Photography by: Up and Away Studios
8. Where do you often find inspiration?
Travel is always the best source of inspiration! But seeing as I haven’t gone anywhere for far too long, I’m turning to design magazines for new ideas. Pinterest and Instagram are always good for accessible design inspiration and I’ve come across some fabulous vendors and designers on both platforms.
9. What do you think will have changed about the interior design industry a year from now?
That is a very hard thing to predict - no one could have seen the 2020 shut downs coming from a mile away! Not to mention the demand on designers, contractors and suppliers that resulted from people being stuck at home and the supply chain issues. So I can only say what I hope changes… and that is the value of the services being offered. If you are spending the time and money to renovate or build your home - invest in design. Good design is the foundation of your entire project.
10. What are three things you couldn’t get through a work day without?
Coffee, Bubly water and my team!