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LOCAL STORIES
Sunday, November 3, 2024
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From Heartfelt Designs to Award-Winning Spaces: A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Discovering the Power of Personal Connection in Creating Meaningful Interiors
Published on:
Sunday, November 3, 2024
Ignite Business Insider shares the stories of businesses that are making an impact in their local markets. We highlight their stories in order to inspire entrepreneurial growth and to let readers learn more about businesses across the world that are growing and scaling.
Featuring
Farha Syed
Owner/Principal Designer
Farha Syed Design, LLC
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Thank you for taking the time to sit with us and share your story. Can you share a little bit about you and your company?
Thank you so much for having me! I’m Farha, and I lead an interior design studio that’s all about creating thoughtfully personalized spaces for each of our clients. Our mission is to design homes that truly feel like home, tailored to each client’s lifestyle and vision. We focus on collaboration and making the process enjoyable, taking time to understand the unique ways our clients live so that every detail feels just right.
Whether working hands-on in your space or guiding you virtually, we bring our award-winning expertise to every project, ensuring it’s both beautiful and functional. Designing homes is truly my passion, and I’m grateful for the chance to help people live authentically in their spaces.
Since we last caught up, what new changes have you or your business been through?
Thank you for asking! Since we last connected, something incredible happened—I was honored with the Best of 2024 award for my town, which was based entirely on client feedback about their experience working with me and my studio. It feels like the most rewarding gift after twelve years of dedication, hard work, and pushing to make a mark in this industry. Breaking into design wasn’t easy, but building meaningful connections with clients and creating spaces that genuinely reflect their lives has always been my driving force. This recognition from the very people I set out to serve means everything, and it’s truly inspired me and my team to continue delivering that level of care, vision, and quality in every project. I couldn’t be more grateful!
How exciting! Now, how do you see this impacting either you, your business or your customer?
Receiving this award has been so meaningful, and it’s really energized me in a positive way. For me personally, it’s a huge milestone—one that reminds me why I fell in love with interior design in the first place. It validates all those years of persistence and reinforces that our clients feel genuinely seen and cared for, which is the heart of everything we do.
For our business, it’s inspired us to keep elevating our service and craft. Knowing our clients value their experience with us makes us want to go above and beyond in every project, bringing even more creativity, personalization, and detail. And I think for our clients, this recognition reassures them that they’re in great hands. They can trust that they’re working with a designer who is passionate about making their space uniquely theirs and who truly values the relationship we build along the way.
Did you have a person, or brand, that was influential in your early formation of business, or career?
Absolutely—my mom was my biggest inspiration. Growing up, I watched her as an architect and a natural interior designer, bringing incredible spaces to life. She also ran a custom furniture business in Pakistan, where we lived for five years. I saw firsthand how she managed her work as a businesswoman, blending creativity with professionalism. It left a lasting impression on me.
When choosing a career path, I was drawn to interior design mainly because of her influence. But first, I went into marketing and earned my degree there, which gave me a great foundation. Eventually, though, I felt that creative pull and knew I had to pursue my passion for design. My mom’s example gave me the confidence to trust my vision, and I’m so grateful for her influence in shaping my journey.
Now, I have found that with successful people, there is always someone pivotal as either a mentor, parent, teacher, or someone that you look to for advise, that helped set you on this path. Could you share who that person was? And what impact that had on the person you are today?
Yes, there was a pivotal moment for me, and it was the passing of my mom. Losing her was incredibly hard, but it also brought a sense of clarity and purpose that I hadn’t fully embraced before. She was such a powerful influence—an architect, a natural designer, and someone who poured her heart into her work. Like her, I realized I had this passion and a creative talent that I wanted to channel meaningfully.
In a way, design became my outlet—a way to honor her memory and practice my passion with the same dedication she had. It helped me redirect my energy and gave me a purposeful and fulfilling focus. This path has become so much more than a career for me; it’s a way of keeping her spirit alive in the work I do every day.
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What was one take away that you learned from that person? And how did it translate into your business today?
One of the biggest lessons my mom taught me was the importance of truly listening—to people, spaces, and my own intuition. She believed that every detail mattered and that design wasn’t just about making things look beautiful; it was about creating spaces that felt right for the people in them.
That approach has become the foundation of my business today. When I work with clients, I prioritize understanding their needs, stories, and visions for their homes. I listen closely, just like she taught me, so every design reflects something profoundly personal and meaningful. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that feel authentic, welcoming, and exactly what my clients have dreamed of. That value of listening and connecting has shaped everything I do.
In business, it's good to have a differentiator. What is your greatest differentiator? And, why?
My greatest differentiator is my ability to connect deeply with clients who share my cultural background and understand what makes their home feel truly personal. I love working with clients who want their spaces to reflect where they come from—whether through unique elements that remind them of home or by showcasing treasured items they’ve carried with them along their journey.
This connection allows me to design spaces that look beautiful and tell their unique story. By weaving cultural touches and personal treasures into each space, I create designs that resonate on a deeper level, making clients feel comfortable and genuinely at home. This approach brings an authenticity to my work that clients deeply appreciate, and I’m incredibly proud of it.
Let's dive deeper into your products and services. You already gave an overview, but how do your products or services help your customers? And what makes them different from your competitors?
Absolutely! My products and services are designed to create truly personalized experiences for my clients, helping them transform their spaces into homes that reflect their unique stories and lifestyles. Whether through my *Designer By Your Side* service for kitchens and bathrooms or my *Turn-Key Decorating* offerings, I focus on collaboration and understanding each client’s vision.
My emphasis on cultural connection and the personal touches I infuse into each project sets me apart from competitors. I take the time to listen to my clients’ backgrounds and values, allowing me to incorporate elements that resonate with them on a personal level. This makes the design process more meaningful and results in spaces that feel authentically theirs.
Additionally, I offer virtual design services, making it easier for clients across the country to access my expertise. This expands our reach and allows us to connect with a diverse range of clients. This combination of personalized attention and cultural sensitivity truly sets my services apart, ensuring that each project is not just about aesthetics but about creating a home that tells a story.
Let's unpack that even further. Let's pick one aspect of your business. What makes it so unique? And how does it change you or your customer's experience?
One aspect of my business that I find particularly unique is my ability to weave together a specific aesthetic while honoring my clients’ authentic styles through art and furniture. Every space should reflect the personality and story of those who inhabit it, and that’s why I take a tailored approach to design.
When a client comes to me, I don’t just impose a style on them; instead, I dive deep into understanding what resonates with them, their tastes, and the memories they want their space to evoke. For instance, if a client is drawn to a particular aesthetic—like mid-century modern or bohemian—I’ll curate a collection of art, furnishings, and decor that fits that aesthetic and includes personal touches that reflect their history and cultural background.
This approach transforms the design process into a collaborative journey where clients feel seen and valued. It’s not just about making a space look good; it’s about creating an environment where they feel a genuine connection to their home. The result is a cohesive and deeply personal space, enriching their everyday experience and bringing joy and comfort to their lives. This discovery and integration process ultimately sets my work apart and leaves my clients with a home that feels uniquely theirs.
Let's dive into your customer's journey a little bit. Can you share with us, how do your customers discover you and your brand? What are their next steps? And what is the experience you would like to see your customers go on, when working with you and your brand?
Absolutely! Many of my clients discover my brand through word of mouth, social media, or my website, where they can see the various projects I’ve worked on and my personalized approach. I think the authentic connection and the stories behind my designs resonate with them, which draws them in.
Once they reach out, the following steps involve an initial consultation, where we chat about their vision, needs, and preferences. I love to really listen and understand their journey—what inspires them, what they love about their current space, and what they’re hoping to change. It’s a conversation that sets the foundation for a strong partnership.
I want my clients to have an experience of trust, collaboration, and excitement. I want them to feel like they’re not just hiring a designer but inviting a partner into their home who genuinely cares about making their dreams a reality. I aim to create an enjoyable process where they feel involved in every step, from brainstorming ideas to seeing their vision come to life. My goal is for them to end up with a beautifully designed space that reflects who they are and brings them joy daily.
Let's rave about your customers for a minute. Can you share a story about one of your clients or customers, that either touched your heart, or made an impact with you and your team?
One project that genuinely touched my heart was when a dear friend reached out during the COVID-19 pandemic to help decorate their new home. I had decorated their first home, so they already had a sense of my style and approach, but this time felt even more significant. They handed me the keys to their new house, even before they had moved in, trusting me to create a space reflecting their vision and personality.
This home required extensive remodeling, including two bathroom renovations, a complete kitchen overhaul, and furnishing most of the space. Their confidence in me to manage such a large-scale project was humbling and inspiring. It was an opportunity to showcase my ability to carry a project from start to finish. I poured my heart into every detail, ensuring it felt like a true reflection of their lifestyle.
Seeing their joy and satisfaction was incredibly rewarding when the renovations were completed. They were thrilled with the results, and their trust in me meant the world. This experience not only strengthened our friendship but also gave me a significant boost in confidence to take on larger projects in the future. It was a powerful reminder of the impact that thoughtful design can have on people’s lives, and it reinforced my passion for creating spaces that genuinely make a difference.
How has that inspired you or your team?
That experience profoundly inspired me and my team to explore new and innovative ways to achieve our clients’ desired results. It reminded us of the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones—not just for our clients but also for ourselves as designers. We learned that by encouraging our clients to embrace new ideas and styles, we could create spaces that truly surprise and delight them.
I’ve adopted a hand-holding approach in our process, where I take the time to explain how various design elements work together holistically. This means guiding clients through the journey, addressing their concerns, and helping them see the bigger picture. When they can visualize how different design aspects come together, they feel more confident to try something new, and often, they love the results!
This collaborative spirit has invigorated our design philosophy. My team and I now actively seek fresh concepts and approaches, knowing that our clients are often willing to take that leap of faith with the proper support. It’s a beautiful cycle of inspiration that leads to beautifully unique spaces and deeper relationships with our clients.
While we still have you with us today, what are some takeaways you would like to share?
I’d love to share a few key takeaways that I’ve gathered throughout my journey in interior design. First and foremost, always remember the power of listening. Every client has a unique story and vision for their space, and taking the time to truly understand their needs makes all the difference in creating something that feels authentic.
Secondly, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s trying a bold new color palette or incorporating unexpected elements, some of the best designs come from pushing boundaries and embracing creativity. What can happen when you allow yourself and your clients to explore new possibilities is fantastic!
Lastly, cherish the relationships you build along the way. Design is not just about the finished product; it’s about your journey with your clients. Nurturing those connections leads to trust, collaboration, and a shared celebration of the beautiful spaces you create together.
Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts—I hope these insights inspire others on their journeys, whether in design or any other passion they pursue!
Well, it has been great sitting with you and learning about your latest announcement. How can people follow you and learn more?
Thank you so much for having me! It’s been a pleasure sharing my story with you. If people want to follow along and learn more about my work, they can check out my website at https://farhasyeddesign.com, where you'll find our portfolio and details about our services.
You can also follow me on social media—I'm active on Instagram and Facebook, where I share design tips, behind-the-scenes looks at projects, and inspiration for creating beautiful spaces. I love connecting with my community, so feel free to reach out, ask questions, or share your design dreams!
And for the latest updates, I send out regular emails. If you sign up for a complimentary design guide, you'll receive emails from me with the latest updates, design tips, and industry news. I'm excited to continue this journey and would love for you to be a part of it!
Thank you so much for sitting with us and sharing your story.
Thank you so much for having me and for the thoughtful questions. I appreciate the opportunity to share my journey and my passion for design. It’s been a humbling experience to reflect on how far I’ve come, and I’m grateful for the support I’ve received along the way. I'm always happy to connect if there’s anything more I can share or if anyone has questions. Thank you again for this conversation—it truly means a lot to me.
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