Hi cuties! I'm just going to dive right in: I am so, so, so excited to introduce you to our latest Trade Member Spotlight designer: Angie Artigues of Angie Artigues Design Co.! Based in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, Angie has over 20 years of experience in the interior design industry and she specializes in delivering coastal modern spaces throughout the Charleston area (and beyond!) all while developing longterm relationships with her clients (many of whom have multiple homes).
When she's not busy at work making design magic with her clients, Angie finds joy and peace at home: "As I have gotten older, I have become more of a homebody. I like looking for ways to continue improving my own spaces and I know its never finished,: she explains. "The joy comes from knowing that it is ok to let it keep evolving though my husband might disagree!" Read on to learn all about Angie, her business, and her design style and philosophy."I just recently moved into the KKH Trade Program but have been purchasing from them for several years. I think the vast selection of vendors is most appealing, but I also like having a turnkey operation. KKH is designer 'savvy' so they understand what is important to their Trade members and that helps tremendously in delivering the best experience to our clients." -Angie Artigues
Tell our readers about your business—what are your specialities and core offerings?
I focus primarily on residential interior design. My business has evolved over the years but lately I have been immersed in new construction and renovation work. Charleston, South Carolina, is booming right now so I am just enjoying the opportunity to work on lots of different projects.Where is your business based? Do you take on projects nationwide or specialize in a specific location?
My business is based in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, but I have clients all over. I have had several clients through the years that own multiple properties allowing me to travel and work in different areas of the US. I am headed to Southwest Harbor, Maine, next week to finish a project!
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Do you have a favorite interior design style to work with on projects?
I don’t consider myself a Designer with a specific style. I believe the architectural style of a house, the location, and the client’s personal preferences should be the foundation for planning the interior design. I think I would get bored if I was doing the same things all the time.How would you describe the style of your own home? What’s your favorite piece of furniture or decor that you own?
My home is a modern coastal design. We completely renovated a 40-year-old Georgian style home, and I decided I wanted more color and pattern than I had in previous homes. I would have to say that the wallpaper selections and the artwork are my favorite design elements in my home."I do have a few original paintings from local artists and the colors are vibrant and happy!"
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Tell us about a notable project from the past few years.
I have had several large-scale projects the last few years, but one of my favorites was a ground up project for repeat clients. It was a rare opportunity to be involved in every phase from architectural drawings to completely furnished. I thought we would never finish it because things kicked off during COVID but in the end everything came together beautifully.What have been some of the biggest joys and challenges you’ve faced in your career in the design industry?
There is so much joy for me in design that I can’t narrow it down to one thing. My excitement when planning for a new project is invigorating and that is when I am most creative. I like to work on design plans late at night when the rest of the world is quiet. Have there been any challenges working in the design industry? Yes—everyday.
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What advice would you give someone who wants to work with an interior designer on their home, but they feel intimidated or hesitant? For someone who’s never worked with a designer, what’s the major upside?
My advice for anyone who might feel hesitant or intimidated about hiring an Interior Designer is to first recognize that all Interior Designers are not created equally. I think it is ok to set up interviews for the sole purpose of finding out what they would bring to the table and whether they would be a good fit for you. I would ask what gives them the most stress about doing it alone (or without a professional designer) and then go from there. I find that most people want to avoid making costly mistakes and that is reason No. 1 for considering a professional.Speaking to fellow design pros: what advice do you have about working a challenging client or overcoming unforeseen obstacles on a design project?
In my experience, you can usually assess whether a client will be challenging in the first meeting. There are most always a few red flags but when you are young or new to the industry your desire to have work can cloud your judgement.You are always going to have challenges but how you manage them will be of the upmost importance to your continued success. I would also advise setting your expectations with other trade professionals, vendors and employees—anyone who might be involved in your projects."I would advise new designers to have their practices and procedures locked down before taking on new clients."
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I think many of the design trends that were hot last year are still trending such as white oak, brass finishes, moody color drenching, and so forth. I do think color has made a strong comeback and will likely be seen in different applications throughout the year.Are there any design trends you see on the horizon for the year to come? Any trends on their way out?
"Last, I am seeing a reintroduction of traditional design elements which will make my southern clients very happy."
Where do you draw the most inspiration from as a designer?
I am inspired by the work of other design professionals. I can scroll for hours or pour over design publications which I still prefer over the screen. I do get inspired by places that I visit such as hotels, churches, restaurants. Design is everywhere and I have a deep appreciation for the talents of others. If something moves me, I remember it.
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The Kathy Kuo Home Trade Program
Feeling inspired by Angie Artigues? If you’re an interior designer or architect you can apply to our Trade Program to enjoy a wide array of professional benefits, as well as access to a thriving community of interior design pros. You can learn all about it HERE, but in brief, KKH Trade members receive: Competitive Trade Pricing, Low Storage Fees, Dedicated Trade Specialist to Coordinate Orders from Start to Finish, and More.
