Before & After Photos Courtesy of Monique Holland With everything going on in the world, many people have had to completely redesign their lives when telework and virtual learning became our daily norm. We were able to chat with renowned Interior Designer Monique Holland of Holland Custom Designs – Decorating Den Interiors, to learn a little bit more about how she and her team help bring your vision to life.
How has your business grown in 2020 in spite of the challenges the world has faced?
Unexpected growth has happened; notwithstanding, COVID-19. There was a slowdown in March, but in April we commenced with virtual presentations and by May the floodgates opened. There was clearly pent up demand. Additionally, as people were finding themselves at home and realizing that they may be there for a while they began scheduling consultations to determine how they could make their spaces more functional. Clients are also now more focused on the functionality while searching for ways to improve their spaces. I am happy to say that my business has continued to grow and we were able to bring on new hires. We have officially moved to a larger studio location.
How would you describe what you do?
I create beautiful spaces for people and view myself as an artist. My main goal is to help bring a client’s vision to life. I accomplish this by transforming clients’ homes into functional and beautiful works of art.
How long have you been in business? Why did you decide to work in the Alexandria area?
While I’ve been designing beautiful spaces for over 20 years, I have been in business for myself since 2018. Actually, Alexandria is not a location I found, it found me. My main focus areas are Washington DC, National Harbor and areas in Maryland north to Upper Marlboro, Maryland. My studio is right across the bridge at National Harbor, and many clients in Alexandria find me through an independent search.
What types of services do you offer for those looking to re-imagine their current space for more functionality and more time in the home? We are a full-service design studio. We offer interior design services, paint consultations, and project management for home construction projects where clients want to remodel kitchens and bathrooms. Sometimes, we offer services, not listed on our website to accommodate a clients’ needs.
We are ASID Certified in Health and Wellness in Interior Design and Biophilic Design. This knowledge is helping us addressing clients’ health needs as well.
What do you tell new clients who are coming to you for the first time?
I advise every client that I don’t take the fact that they contacted us for granted and that we look to earn their business. We view the initial consultation as an interview, a chance where we both get to decide if we are a good fit for one another. After discussing the entire process, I let clients know that they can expect constant communication and honesty throughout the process. I also want clients to think about the pieces they want to keep that have sentimental value. I don’t believe in throwing everything out if there are pieces you already love.
Where does your Inspiration come from when starting a new project?
My inspiration comes from the clients’ vision for how they want their space to feel and look. We conduct a design interview and in-depth fact finding during the initial consultation. I don’t start the design the same for every client. They may have a piece of artwork or an heirloom piece that inspires me or it could be a color that they absolutely love and want to see throughout their space.
What do you hope clients will take away from the experience once they work with you?
I want them to walk away feeling that they received a great value for the services provided. I want them to love the space. The reactions that I see from their newly designed spaces are priceless. I have a high percentage of repeat clients because once they are able to see what can be done for their budget, they start a new home project.
Why do you believe it is important for clients to use a professional (such as yourself) when redesigning their space?
We are trained to bring their vision to life. The reasons to hire a professional are vast, including saving money and time. I ask people to really think about all the money they have spent trying to get their space to have the look and feel that they have wanted, but have not been able to achieve over the years. Before [you] consider continuing along that path, try something different. Aside from the initial phone call, we provide complimentary in-home consultations.
For your complimentary consultation, visit mholland.decoratingden.com or call (301) 567-0680. November/December 2020 | 11
