Interior design is more accessible than ever before, especially for those living in the Baltimore area. However, in a world that prioritizes DIY projects, this might not be apparent. You’d rather try to curate furniture yourself, or maybe you think you can re-design that bathroom and use subs for the installation. Unfortunately, Baltimore’s architecture poses unique challenges that, often, can only be properly addressed by a professional interior designer. We spoke with Meghan Friedman of Redhead Design about the world of Baltimore interior design, as well as the challenges residents and designers face.
What Drives People Toward Design?
Interior design is a thriving industry, but certain times of year draw more business than others. “We are typically busiest in the spring and fall,” Friedman began. “Once the holidays are over, people get excited about taking on new projects. The fall is also a popular time for design projects. Once kids are back in school and families are able to settle back into their normal routine, it’s easier to focus on new things.” Despite these trends, Friedman clarified what she believes drives most of her clients: “While there are certainly busier times of year, mostly what I see is that clients just come to a point in their lives where they are ready for a new look.”
Several factors comprise this phenomenon of wanting a new look. Friedman has noticed a few popular trends among her clients: “Often, much of their furniture has been inherited over the years, creating a non-cohesive look, and they are ready to make their homes reflect their own style. Other clients are simply interested in downsizing or want to move away from traditional to a fresher look.” Whether her clients are looking for a drastic change or a simple, modern update, Friedman has designed homes all over the Baltimore area: “I work in and around all areas of Baltimore. I’ve done many homes in Fells Point, Canton, and Federal Hill, as well as homes in the Roland Park/Homeland area. Lately, I’ve seen an influx of clients from Northern Baltimore county, as there seems to be quite a bit of growth in that area.”
Interior Design in Baltimore
As with most industries, interior design trends vary by city. Friedman confirmed, explaining, “Given Baltimore’s dynamic and diverse neighborhoods, interior design in Baltimore runs the gamut, allowing me to work with a wide range of styles.” Local trends, however, are generally determined by architectural makeup, and Baltimore is no exception: “The farmhouse style and industrial look are still very popular, but I also have clients who prefer a cottage style. I am currently working on a new construction home, a converted ranch home, and also a farm house.”
However, Friedman believes it is the job of the designer to not only work with the makeup of the space, but to also introduce a unique and innovative approach: “While a client—or even the architecture of a house—may lean toward one particular style, it is my job to bring out their own unique personality and make sure it is comfortable and livable.” This is of particular importance in Baltimore, as “cookie-cutter” row homes and small cottages comprise much of the city’s architecture.
In addition to determining trends, cities also produce distinct challenges. For Friedman, it’s storage space: “One of the biggest challenges I see in Baltimore homes, especially around the city, is a lack of storage space—closets, pantries, you name it. There just never seems to be enough space.” While investing in a Baltimore storage unit may be one way to mitigate the problem, Friedman advocated strongly for the use of a designer before making any big decisions: “Using a designer allows people to see their space in a different way—from an experienced, outside perspective—providing the opportunity to be more efficient and find creative solutions to their storage problems.”
How Can a Designer Help?
In addition to in-home storage allocation, Friedman can assist with most home-related problems. “Another common challenge I see among clients is unfinished DIY projects,” she began. “Do it yourself projects are popular everywhere, but a lot of times, people encounter obstacles or simply run out of steam, leaving them frustrated with a partially-done project.” She said that, though these projects seem like small, doable home improvements, they’re often far more complicated than someone might expect: “There are countless ways to make a change in your home and to make a project interesting—finish treatments, upgraded hardware, fresh fabrics or paint, new furniture, innovative lighting, upgraded technology, etc. These upgrades and projects, however, are often not as simple as they may seem. Bringing a designer in takes the stress and frustration out.”
Looking for a Baltimore Interior Designer? Redhead Design is at Your Service
If you’re in the market for a Baltimore-area interior designer, consider Redhead Design. Friedman has been in the business for years, and she mentioned one of her most recent projects—a townhouse in Lutherville: “This was for a wonderful couple who were looking to make their style less formal. They wanted to create an open floor plan, but still keep separate areas for the living and dining rooms. They were also eager to liven up the space with a bright palette.”
“The homeowner is a woodworker, so he was really interested in unique wood projects and was open to the idea of custom furniture. Not only were we able to create a custom dining table and side tables, but he also ended up making his own coffee table with a custom finish.” This type of tailored expertise is necessary in an interior designer—you need open, honest communication to convey exactly what you want. Friedan echoed the sentiment: “One thing that’s really important to me as a designer is to have solid communication with my clients in order to ensure that we make their house into a home that’s not only comfortable for them, but that truly reflects their personality and style.”
Friedman and her team offer a personalized service for Baltimore residents. “As a local, hands-on designer,” she explained, “I offer comprehensive design services. I love to focus on spaces that include antiques or pieces made from reclaimed items or wood—one-of-a-kind pieces that give richness and depth, making a home truly extraordinary.”
