Simply Chic Interior Designs by Andra

Simply Chic Interior Designs by Andra is a full service interior design business here in Sudbury offering colour consultations, lighting & fixture design as well as home decor. Andra is a recent graduate from the Interior Design Institute and she opened Simply Chic Interior Designs in 2015. We spoke with Andra about her interior design business and what design trends to look out for in 2017!

What inspired you to start Simply Chic Interior Designs by Andra?

As I got older, I realized I wanted to do something that truly made me happy and inspired me. Ultimately, I always knew I was an artistic person at heart so I wanted to incorporate that into every aspect of my life.  It was not until years later I realized my true passion was for creating unique spaces. Two years ago, I finally decided to take the leap and start Simply Chic. 

Why did you decide to get into the design industry?

For a few years, I had worked at a big box store in Sudbury that was all about “the home”.  Although, it was great meeting new people, I truly loved that I could help people with questions about decorating their homes. I would have repeat customers coming in to ask my opinion on particular items for their home, whether it was the colour scheme, or entire home renovations.  After a few months, I decided to go back to school for interior design. Thankfully, the entire program could be completed online and in just under a year, I had successfully graduated from the program. I stayed with the company for another two years before I felt confident enough to officially start my own business.

Owning our own home has also played a significant role in making the decision. My husband and I are continuously renovating and redesigning every part of our home. I truly believe this is what gave me the confidence to help others.

How would you describe your style? 

Although, it is continually changing I think my style is traditional, with a mix of modern.  When we first bought our home, I loved everything country or Victorian.  However, like all trends, I have found that over time my style has shifted. As our lives change, so does your style. You shouldn’t feel confined to one type of style – this is what makes interior design so intriguing!

When you are decorating a home, what is the design process like? 

First things first, the client and I meet to discuss what they would like their room or area to feel like.  Is the room too dark right now?  Do they want it to be brighter, airy?  Once we determine the type of environment they want, this is where the fun begins. After the initial consultation, research begins. I put together an outline of everything I think the client would like.  Often times, a simple change of paint colour can sometimes do the trick.  Research is a crucial part of the design process. I spend a significant amount of time researching paint colours, fabric swatches and other decorative items such as rugs, tile choices, furniture types, kitchen counter tops, etc. After this has been determined, I bring my clients with me to physically look at the items / options. This helps to expedite the process.

Meeting with the client is key, and my favourite part of the process.  I always remember that they are the ones living in this space and are trusting me to help them along.  Their opinion means everything, so I ensure the client is involved in every process along the way.

Do you have a favourite project?

My favourite projects are usually the ones involving paint choices.  I think paint is the best way to improve the look of any room and the easiest way to bring a different feel to any room.  It also brings the client instant gratification and who doesn’t appreciate that? 

I did however have the pleasure of picking out window treatments for a newly built (dream) home.  I was able to see it at the drywalling stage.  The kitchen cupboards were installed but nothing else.  No flooring, no paint on the walls, nothing.  We worked with the paint sample and the colours of the cupboards to determine the window treatments we would go with.  It turned out amazing and the homeowner loved the entire feel of the room.  Not only did we start looking at pictures together, we also went to the store to pick them out together. 

What is the biggest interior design trend of 2017?

Every year, Pantone releases their ‘Colour of the Year’, which always has a tremendous influence on interior trends. This year’s colour, greenery offers nothing short of calming. Simply adding little plants, green pillows or even a throw to any room can spruce up the atmosphere.

Another 2017 trend, bars. Yes, bars are back in style. Built-in bars that will accommodate much more than just a few bottles and glasses. Although, bar carts have been extremely popular in the past few years, we’re seeing bigger, better built-in bars in 2017!

How do you keep up with these design trends?

I’m an avid magazine reader. It’s easy to stay up-to-date with interior magazines, especially at the beginning of each season. Style at Home is a great resource. I’m also a big fan of Pinterest. You can find so many inspiring projects! 

Any budget friendly decorating ideas for our readers?

Budget is my main focus.  I pride myself on doing everything on or below budget.  Not everything has to be expensive to look good. Look around your house, is there anything that can be painted and reused in another area?  We all have items we don’t use anymore… repurpose them.  Use them in another format in another area.  Paint them.  You will feel more satisfied when you have made something out of nothing or saved yourself some money.  Decorating does not have to be expensive, it has to be fun!

Find out more about Simply Chic Interior Designs by Andra on her website or follow along on Facebook and Twitter!

Emily Franceschini

Emily Franceschini is former full-timer and lover of all things purple. In a past life, Emily worked as a marketing manager and spent her free time searching for the perfect cup of coffee. Now all of her time is free time and she's spending it exploring the world.

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