Experts Share Their Thoughts on What Makes a Good Design

Aug. 24, 2011 - PRLog -- On August 12th, the Houston Chronicle featured an article in the Home & Garden section asking five notable Texas designers, “What is good design?” Among these five designers was Laura Umansky, interior designer and creative director of Laura U Design Studio and owner of the retail boutique Laura U Collection. When asked “What is good design?”, Laura states “Good design must consider three things: intention, function, and beauty.” In other words, the intention of the design must always reflect the client’s needs. The functionality of a space is also essential because this ensures that the space is used for a smart and useful purpose. And overall, a space must also include a special meaning to the client. Laura concludes her viewpoint on what a good design is by stating, “Ultimately, if the person experiences the space in a joyful way, then the design is good.”
The feature also included award-winning architects, David Lake and Ted Flato of Lake|Flato based in San Antonio; hotelier and designer, Liz Lambert; and furniture and interior designer, Julie Schaff Risman, who is also owner of the Inside Story Design located in San Antonio. Each designer gave a different approach on what makes a good design. Flato believes “good design needs to make the larger environment a better place.” Flato’s partner- Lake, adds, “Everything we do has to be sustainable. The man-made world and the natural [has] to be in harmony.” While Lambert defines good design as “finding a balance between elegance and simplicity, vibrancy and calm, old and new.” And Risman feels in order to achieve good design, “your home should tell your story. [For example,] art and artifacts from your travels, collections and artful photos [can] turn a house into a home.” Each designer brings a refreshing take on what is good design. For the modern day homeowner, good design is bringing your own personality, style and taste into the design of your home. While for a designer, achieving good design for a client must include a balance between form and functionality.
Laura U Collection: An atelier for the designer and the designer-inspired, Laura U offers customized, handmade furniture and unique accents for the home. Laura Umansky, (Owner and Creative Director) also brings her spirited design sensibility to her clients’ interiors. With a focus on luxury residential and commercial interiors, the team at Laura U brings a classically current look to every design.
For additional information about this event or press inquiries, please contact Karee Laing at (713) 522-0855 or press@laurau.com. To learn more about Laura U, visit our website (www.laurau.com) or stop by our furnishings boutique located at 1840 Westheimer Rd. Houston, TX 77098 in the River Oaks area.