TRADE SECRETS

Suzan Globus. FASID
Globus Design Associates

What is your definition of good design?
"Good interior design enhances the human activity within the space, does no harm to the environment and is beautiful."

What is the most common design challenge and how can people overcome it?
"The most common challenge is not knowing where to start. The referral service available at www.asid.org is a good first step along with tips on the site regarding how to work with an interior designer."

What is your favorite new design trend for all rooms?
"My favorite design trend is the increase in the introduction of sustainable materials into the marketplace and the public's interest in them."

What, in general, does the future hold for design?
"We are entering into an especially exciting time in the history of interior design. As more people become interested in design, a deeper exploration into the impact interior design can have on human beings' behavior and well being as well as the environment will occur."

What originally inspired you to become an interior designer?
"After reaching a career goal as a journalist ahead of schedule, I considered writing a book. I realized I had adequate knowledge about journalism, but not much else, and that writing a book about journalism did not appeal to me. I returned to college to study interior design with the intent to learn enough to write a book about it. I have been enjoying practicing interior design. I haven't written that book yet."

Where did you grow up, and how did it affect your sense of design?
"I grew up in a family of photographers, writers, artists, chefs and quilters who have woven design throughout the fabric of my life. I have wondered if my Eastern design sensibilities are attributable to having lived in Japan during my early childhood."

What is the most common (or uncommon) place you find inspiration for your designs?
"I find inspiration from nature regardless of my location, from the fashions on the streets in lower Manhattan and from watching the way people relate to each other and to their surroundings."

What rules of design should everyone follow?
"If everyone followed rules, we probably wouldn't see good design."

What is the best design advice you ever got?
"Observe people and read everything you can."

What new materials/technologies/products interest you?
"In addition to sustainable materials, the seamless integration of technology into the built environment is of special interest to me."