In this instalment of Design Files, we discuss creating spaces that you love with licensed builder, Cindy Scott of KC Custom Designs. Spruce’s Design Files series brings local Victoria home experts and their insights on trends, investments, and design to Victoria locals looking to refresh and spruce up their home.
Meet Cindy Scott, a licensed builder and owner of KC Custom Designs Ltd. in Victoria B.C. KC Custom Designs has been building homes on the island for 14 years. Cindy used her building and design experience to create a custom home niche.
Spruce spoke with Cindy about her design style, why working with design experts is so important, and why the pandemic has created more intentional homes.
“During this recent pandemic, people have spent more time in their homes than ever before. I think we are seeing a real appreciation for where we live and a desire to make our homes a place we enjoy being.”
Q & A With Cindy
How would you describe your interior design approach?
As a contractor/builder with KC Custom Designs, I think that my approach to interior design may come from a bit of a different angle. I often have the luxury of being a part of designing homes from conceptual drawings to completion. This enables us to ensure that the exterior and the interior complement each other and have the same ‘feel’. I am drawn to homes that feel as though they belong in their surroundings. I want the interior to feel ‘right’ when you come into someone’s home. My goal is for a house to feel like a home, I want people to feel as though they could and would love to live here. Calm and comfort are important elements, I love to add layers and textures that make people feel this way.
If you could give one REALLY amazing piece of interior design advice to someone who doesn’t know where to start, what would it be?
Working with a designer is always a good idea, especially one who offers the kind of esthetic and style you are drawn to. If hiring a designer is not an option, I tell people to focus on one room. Give yourself somewhere to start, picking one room and focusing your efforts and resources on that room gives a person a better chance of achieving success. The personal satisfaction they feel will inspire and fuel the beginning of another space. A great magazine or Pinterest inspiration board/picture never hurts, I find it helps people stay on track. Be patient, the more effort you put in the more pride and enjoyment you will feel.
What is something few people understand about interior design? Or a misconception about being an interior designer?
I think that people would be surprised at the amount of time, effort and brainpower it takes to put together a well-dressed space. There is a lot of research, planning and sourcing of products that takes place. Coordination and patience are then required as delivery times can be lengthy but well worth the end result.
What is something you think is really worth investing in when it comes to designing your home?
I believe in investing in pieces you love. Often times when I am purchasing a ‘big furniture’ commitment’ furniture piece, I will take my time, do my research and sit with my choice – and tape out the size and location in the space. I have found that only pieces that I really love will make the cut and these pieces will be in my home for a long time. Trust what you love and be aware of spatial factors.
What’s the most important factor in choosing an interior designer to renovate your space?
What I would look for first when choosing a designer and contractor is your ability to work with that person. It is important that the client feels heard and that there is a mutual respect and trust between both the client and the designer/contractor. I think that fairly quickly into meeting with people you are able to ascertain whether it is an appropriate fit. Listen to your gut, it is important to make good decisions. From my experience in KC Custom Designs, the best working relationship with clients is when they know you have the same goals, when there is a transparency in expectations and open communication.
Are there any trends you’re seeing that homeowners should be excited about?
A trend in design that I am excited about is the focus and care people are putting into their homes and how they live in them. During this recent pandemic, people have spent more time in their homes than ever before. I think we are seeing a real appreciation for where we live and a desire to make our homes a place we enjoy being. This means giving more thought and care to how we use our space, what brings us comfort and joy. With the slow down, people have had a chance to be more thoughtful about their homes, design and what represents comfort and functionality to them.
Continue Reading… Design Files with Ivan Meade
