You know this week’s Haven Maven feature is going to be good when her work has been featured in publications including Elle Decor, California Homes, Luxe Magazine, Interiors CA, and more. Robin Strickler, Founder and Principal of Design Works, has been a driving force in the interior design industry for more than two decades, shaping the meaning of stylish living in Southern California. Today, we’re getting to know Robin a bit, featuring some of her selected design work captured by Ryan Garvin and dying over the fact that she recently completed a Victoria’s Secret model’s home! Let’s dive in!
What do you love about being an interior designer and how did you get your start?
I love just about everything about being an interior designer. I got my start by being a fashion merchandiser and working with a lot of different textiles and staying on top of all of the different fashion trends. When we moved to Orange County I began working with a model home company, a friend of mine owned. After doing a small set of models I was asked to do several of the homeowners interiors and that lead me in to the residential sector.
How would you describe your design style?
I have a more timeless, monochromatic style style with more subtle pops of color and mixing different textures.
What is your favorite part of the design process? The most challenging?
I love building from the ground up or remodeling older homes. The transformation is the most exciting part.
Walk us through a typical day in the life with Design Works…
A typical day usually begins at 8:30 am at the office and then we don’t stop until after 6:00pm.We are always working on projects and juggling meetings. It’s never boring or the same.
What is your best advice for growing an engaged community on Instagram?
We try to always post our projects in all of the different stages of design.
With a diversely talented design team in your studio, what is your best advice for others who want to expand their business and hire employees?
I typically look for people that have completed design school and are eager to learn the ins and outs of the industry. That way you can train them and have them grow in your firm.
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned as a business owner?
Not to get too attached to people. This is an ever changing industry and after people gain a lot of experience they tend want to go on their own.
If you could nominate a designer on the rise that you’re currently loving, who would it be?
Brooke Wagner
What is your proudest accomplishment to date?
The home of Jasmine Tookes (the Victoria Secret model) we just completed in Brentwood.
If you could brunch with any boss babe in the world, who would it be and why?
Nate Berkus. I love his style and adorable persona!
If you had to use only ONE paint color throughout a home, what would it be?
Crystal Haze, Dunn Edwards
Instagram account(s) you’re currently crushing on:
Amber Lewis
Current favorite book and/or podcast:
I love listening to Nick Kokonias
3 apps you can’t live without:
Instagram, Google Maps, Starbucks
Favorite beats usually playing in the studio:
Sara Barelles
Interior Design: Design Works | Photography: Ryan Garvin
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The Haven Workshop is an intimate, community-driven learning experience for interior designers who are looking to up-level their business and build a successful brand.
