Nazila Kohanarieh

MY FAQ’s:

 “How do you first approach a space? In other words, what’s the first thing you think about when you first see a client’s closet space/storage problem?”

I try to figure out what bothers my client the most about their space and then we collaborate on the best solution to fix it.

 “What is the biggest design obstacle you’ve overcome? i.e. awkwardly angled walls, electrical sockets in bizarre places, big collections in small spaces.”

The biggest obstacle that I’ve overcome in a closet was a walk-in closet that was not wide at all and two people had to share it. Another company’s designer suggested that the poor husband hangs his clothes like they do in stores on the wall with hooks. I suggested that we utilize the space by having a half wall in the middle of the walk-in where we could have a double hang on one side and shelves for shoes and folded clothes on the other. Problem solved!

 “Since collaboration is such an integral part of the design process, how do you like to engage or connect with clients in order to help them realize their vision for a space?”

Since closets are such personal spaces and no two people use them the same way, designing them is a collaboration between me and the client. The best way is to go over the inventory first, then start the design process in the actual space by using masking tape as a visual aid for the client.

 “How are you inspired by a home’s existing décor? Is there anything specific that you look for during an in-home consultation?”

The home’s existing décor tells you a lot about the client. It gives me an idea about the coloring and material scheme, also how the client likes to store things. For example, if I see shelving mostly utilized without doors, or baskets instead of drawers – this offers me insight I can use to design their new space.