Designer Crush: Heidi Caillier
Author:Michelle Konstantinovsky1. When did you first become interested in design and what was the journey to eventually building your own firm?
I’ve always been interested in design but it took many years to end up on this path. After going to grad school for international public health at Tulane I realized that wasn’t what I wanted to do. I spent several years job hopping until I finally started my old design blog which lead to my first interior design job in the Bay Area. I always knew I wanted to work for myself and many years and a few firms later I launched Heidi Caillier Design.
2. You’re known for mixing old and new and integrating textures and colors – what are some ways you incorporate different styles while retaining an overall cohesive feel?
I love working with different styles, and I love mixing styles. I’m not a fan of rooms that feel overtly “traditional” or “mid-century modern.” I think what makes a design shine is the layered use of furnishings and textiles working cohesively to make a space feel well-rounded. I do love patterns and textiles and always find ways to weave them throughout my projects in interesting ways.
3. What are some of the reasons you gravitate toward vintage pieces that “feel travelled and have history”?
I spent a good deal of my 20s traveling all over the world – from Africa to Europe. I also moved all over the US growing up and have always had an innate curiosity and love of other cultures and how different people live. Bringing in pieces that embody that feeling elevates design for me and tells a story.
4. How is the creative process different for a ground-up remodel versus a simple room refresh?
A ground up remodel often means starting from scratch, including furnishings. You really get to express your vision for the home completely and concisely. With a simple room refresh you are working within a frame that feels somewhat cohesive with the rest of the home. Our creative process is actually very similar though.
5. What’s your process for getting to know a client and their goals?
We look through inspiration images via Pinterest or our office binders, and a lot of initial conversations about goals and budget.
6. Describe a project that’s really stood out to you as unique and special.
I love our Queen Anne II project for so many reasons. The clients are really dear to me and they also have great taste and are wonderful to work with.
7. Which musical album/artist has influenced you most and why?
Ha, can I say Fleetwood Mac and Jay-Z?
Lightning round!
8. Netflix or night out?
I love a night out.
9. Sand or snow?
Sand, no contest.
10. Early bird or night owl?
Early bird.
11. Kindle or hardcover?
Hardcover.
12. Gelato or fro yo?
Gelato.
