Business of Home Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Rita Koenig Knows What Clients Really Want
Host: Dennis Scully
Guest: Rita Koenig, Interior Designer
Release Date: January 20, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of the Business of Home Podcast, host Dennis Scully welcomes back renowned interior designer Rita Koenig. Building on their previous conversation about Rita's upbringing in England and her early career as a design columnist, this episode delves deeper into Rita's expanding profile, including her recent accolades and strategic business moves.

Expanding Horizons: Opening an Office in America

One of the standout topics is Rita's decision to open an office in America, specifically in Palm Beach, Florida. She shares the journey of how her senior designer, Lara, relocated from Chile to Miami, prompting Rita to extend her business presence to the United States.

Rita Koenig [08:33]: "It's really amazing because I probably wouldn't have sent somebody, and having Lara there has been incredible."

Rita reminisces about her childhood visits to Palm Beach, explaining her fondness for the area and how it aligns with her business aspirations.

Adapting to the American Market: Cost Challenges and Solutions

Rita addresses the rising costs in the American interior design market, highlighting the impact of inflation on project budgets. She discusses strategies to deliver exceptional quality without overwhelming costs, emphasizing the importance of client satisfaction over mere price considerations.

Rita Koenig [12:23]: "One does have a responsibility to your client to make sure that they get absolutely the best thing."

She contrasts the cost dynamics between the UK and the US, noting that while inflation has made American goods more expensive, Rita's team successfully imports certain upholstery pieces from the UK to maintain quality and manage costs.

Rita Koenig [13:22]: "Oddly, we seem to do lots of things less expensively. When I lived in the States, everything in America was so much cheaper than it was in England."

Balancing Tradition and Modernity: Shopping Trends

The conversation shifts to the evolving shopping habits of interior designers, particularly the balance between online and in-person shopping. Rita values the relationships and unexpected discoveries that come with traditional shopping trips, while also acknowledging the efficiency and broader selection offered by online platforms.

Rita Koenig [17:46]: "Going out shopping is really good too. I like that."

She highlights the unique experiences and personal connections that physical shopping fosters, which are often lost in the digital realm.

Embracing British Aesthetics in the US

Rita confirms the enduring popularity of British countryside style among American clients. She credits influencers like Robyn Birley and emphasizes the blend of comfort, modernity, and layered aesthetics that appeal to her clientele.

Rita Koenig [19:31]: "Robyn Birley’s done a lot for this look and showing people how rooms can be so comfortable and collected."

This British influence aligns with current trends favoring collected and layered interiors that remain uncluttered and modern.

Recognition and Achievements: House and Garden Designer of the Year & AD100

Rita shares her excitement about being named the Interior Designer of the Year by House and Garden and her inclusion in the prestigious AD100 list. She reflects on her long-standing relationship with House and Garden since 2001 and the personal significance of these accolades.

Rita Koenig [22:44]: "It was really lovely. It really took me by surprise."

She discusses the impact of these recognitions on her confidence and business growth, noting a sense of personal and professional maturation.

The Role of Create Academy and Future Endeavors

Rita elaborates on Create Academy, her educational platform that offers design courses. She is currently expanding the academy with new courses and is exploring multimedia avenues like podcasts and YouTube to reach a broader audience.

Rita Koenig [30:19]: "I'm working on something with them that we can do something more that's a bit quicker, that's more podcast or YouTube."

Looking ahead, Rita envisions her firm focusing on high-impact projects in collaboration with excellent architects and clients. Additionally, she plans to expand her business through licensing partnerships with renowned companies like Schumacher.

Rita Koenig [31:29]: "I would love to do a few terrific jobs... and also build this other side of the business, which is either with licenses like Schumacher."

Originality vs. Copying in Design

The discussion turns to the significance of originality in interior design, particularly in the context of the AD100 list. Rita emphasizes the importance of fresh, original perspectives and cautions against copying others' work.

Rita Koenig [37:54]: "I think new, original eyes. I think that original eye is really exciting. And the only thing that really pisses me off is copying."

She advocates for nurturing young designers who bring unique viewpoints and innovations to the industry, ensuring the field remains dynamic and evolving.

The Intersection of Media and Design

Rita highlights the symbiotic relationship between media exposure and design practice. Her columns have allowed her to share her expertise widely, fostering a deeper connection with her audience and positioning herself as a thought leader in the interior design community.

Rita Koenig [35:04]: "I always think, well, three people go into a paint shop and buy all the same paintbrushes, paints and paper, and paint the same thing. They're all going to look very different."

This philosophy underscores her commitment to educating and empowering both aspiring designers and DIY enthusiasts.

Conclusion: Growth, Recognition, and Future Vision

As the episode wraps up, Rita expresses gratitude for the opportunities and recognitions that have shaped her career. She reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing her professional growth, positioning herself to take on more ambitious projects and expand her influence both in the UK and the US.

Rita Koenig [41:03]: "I... have had my column. When I came back from the States, I had a column on House and Garden. And so I really know the team there."

Dennis Scully commends Rita for her substantial achievements and the poised confidence she now brings to her expanded role in the global interior design arena.

Notable Quotes

• Rita Koenig [08:33]: "Having Lara be the person there is really... she's such a support and such a vital person in my team."
• Rita Koenig [12:23]: "One does have a responsibility to your client to make sure that they get absolutely the best thing."
• Rita Koenig [17:46]: "Going out shopping is really good too. I like that."
• Rita Koenig [19:31]: "Robyn Birley’s done a lot for this look and showing people how rooms can be so comfortable and collected."
• Rita Koenig [22:44]: "It was really lovely. It really took me by surprise."
• Rita Koenig [30:19]: "I'm working on something with them that we can do something more that's a bit quicker, that's more podcast or YouTube."
• Rita Koenig [31:29]: "I would love to do a few terrific jobs... and also build this other side of the business, which is either with licenses like Schumacher."
• Rita Koenig [37:54]: "I think new, original eyes. I think that original eye is really exciting. And the only thing that really pisses me off is copying."

Final Thoughts

Rita Koenig's conversation on the Business of Home Podcast offers invaluable insights into navigating an expanding interior design business across continents, maintaining quality amidst rising costs, and the enduring importance of originality in design. Her reflections on personal growth, professional accolades, and future aspirations provide a comprehensive look at the journey of a leading interior designer striving to meet and exceed client expectations in a dynamic industry.