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WHAT INSPIRES DESIGNER ALLISON?

From creating layouts for multipurpose rooms to knowing how to perfectly accent neutrals, Allison Rachlis is one of our design superstars.  

Most of the time, she’s focused on you. But this week, we thought we’d turn the tables and give you a chance to learn a little more about her.   

Don’t mess with her morning coffee.

“My days are jam packed. They usually begin with my boys waking me up before the alarm goes off and don’t end until much later than I’d like. In between there are client meetings, designing sessions, hours of sourcing, and often team meetings. I rely on my Nespresso to get me going. I keep a full stock of the the purple Arpeggio pods at all times!”

She shops online, but scouts the stores.

HGTV and Instagram are my go-tos for inspiration when sourcing items for a client. But I couldn’t do my job if I didn’t keep up with the inventory of major retailers, because I need to know what I can choose from. Crate & Barrel and West Elm are compulsory stops. I often check in with World Market and go searching for treasures at Home Goods as well.”

Her office is mobile.

“Thank goodness for technology that lets me work from virtually anywhere. I take my trusty Mac with me wherever I go, since I always need to reference my client notes, floor plans, and shopping lists. And as long as I have a reliable Wi-Fi network, I can design from wherever feels most comfortable that day. Most often that’s a desk, but occasionally it’s a local coffee shop, an outdoor space, or even somewhere more inspiring! I love that I can change it up.”

She’s all about balance. 

“I’m a firm believer in balance. Sometimes it’s okay to indulge or do something you usually wouldn’t, as long as you compensate for it elsewhere. In life, I try to be healthy and active. I keep healthy snacks on hand and try to squeeze in a run most mornings. But I definitely love cake and won’t pass it up when offered. In design, I say go for the bold color or crazy print – just keep in relatively contained and balance it out with neutrals colors elsewhere.”

Being a mom helps her be a better designer.

“I have two wonderful sons: Alden who is four and Hudson, who is two. Their hugs when I pick them up them up from school are the highlight of my day. The workweek gets chaotic but on Sundays, we try do something fun as a family activity. Some of our favorites are apple picking, a trip to the beach and birthday parties.

“In many ways I feel like I’m a stronger designer since becoming a mom. Many of our clients are parents, and I instinctively grasp their needs. That can be especially helpful when working with new or expecting parents. And of course there’s nothing like designated family time to keep you on track with your work.”

Her mind is working, even she isn’t. 

“When I do get out, I like to take advantage of all that the city has to offer: great restaurants, museums, and in the summer, the beach! Although I’m not actually working, it fills me with general inspiration and sometimes even gives me specific ideas.

“On nights in, I like to browse magazines, print and digital, to keep up with the trends. HGTVHouse Beautiful, and Elle Decor are all regular reading for me. They have such great ideas!”

You are her favorite part of her job. 

“It’s always a little thrilling to see a vision you see in your mind get translated into a physical space. And because no two clients are alike, no two projects are alike, so each result is unique.

“But by far the best part of what I do is knowing that I’ve actually made a difference in someone’s life. When your space looks better and works for you, you feel better, and when you feel better it makes everyone around you a little bit happier.”

Be sure to check out more of Allison’s work on our Facebook and Instagram pages. Want to work with her? Book your free consult now!

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