Trade Tales: How Better Boundaries Helped Adam Hunter Fall Back in Love with His Business

Episode Release Date: June 4, 2025

Introduction to Adam Hunter's Journey

In this insightful episode of Trade Tales, Kaitlin Peterson, Editor-in-Chief of Business of Home, sits down with Adam Hunter—a dynamic interior designer whose unconventional career path from Broadway to design offers a unique perspective on creativity and business management. Adam’s background in performing arts provided him with exceptional communication skills, which he seamlessly integrated into his design practice.

From Broadway to Design: A Unique Transition

Adam Hunter shares his eclectic journey, starting with a decade-long career on Broadway. “I graduated Michigan at 21, and I was in Les Mis a couple months later,” Adam recounts (00:02), highlighting his early immersion in the performing arts. This theatrical background not only honed his ability to communicate but also instilled a deep appreciation for collaborative creativity—a trait that later became pivotal in his design firm.

Early Business Challenges: Reputation and Transparency

Launching his design firm in 2008, Adam faced significant challenges related to the interior design industry's reputation. “Interior design has a very weird reputation with rich people. They all think we're out to scam them,” he explains (05:30). This skepticism stemmed from past practices where designers marked up prices exorbitantly, damaging trust with wealthy clients. Determined to differentiate his firm, Adam emphasized transparency and authenticity from the outset. “I am always authentic and honest and open and transparent. Sometimes to a fault, I would say,” he notes (06:28), underscoring the importance of integrity in building lasting client relationships.

Building the Team: From 2 to 17 Employees and Back

Adam’s initial team was small, comprising two key members who brought complementary skills to the table. “We were all extremely creative, but they had much more of an eye for implementation, spreadsheets, project trackers,” he describes (07:53). However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, demand surged, leading Adam to rapidly expand his team from seven to seventeen employees in just three months. Reflecting on this period, he admits, “I was not successful with it, to be totally honest. I had learned how to run a business pretty darn well. I had not learned how to scale a business” (10:36). This rapid growth introduced complexities and challenges, ultimately leading Adam to scale back and refine his team to seven dedicated members who align closely with his vision and values.

Client Relationships and the Importance of Transparency

Central to Adam’s approach is fostering genuine, long-term relationships with clients. “I have genuine relationships with some of these people. I have sung in their children's weddings or bar mitzvahs,” he shares (07:16). This deep connection not only builds trust but also ensures that clients feel valued beyond mere transactions. Adam insists on clear communication and setting realistic expectations, which he believes is crucial for maintaining integrity and client satisfaction.

Navigating the Business Side: Financial Models and Billing Practices

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Adam’s evolving approach to billing and financial management. Initially, he experimented with different billing structures, ultimately settling on offering clients three options: hourly rates, flat fees, or design plus markup. “Always the cheaper one… the lesser number up front,” he observes (28:05). Adam acknowledges the psychological barriers clients face when adjusting to transparent pricing models, emphasizing the need for regular updates and clear communication to mitigate discomfort. “Clients will pay your fee for the two years,” he advises, highlighting the importance of flexibility and adaptability in financial negotiations (26:00).

Handling Celebrity Clients and Setting Boundaries

Adam's clientele often includes high-profile individuals who demand a high level of privacy and responsiveness. “Celebrities don't have any boundaries. They'll call you in the middle of the night, yelling about their coffee table,” he explains (38:41). To manage these relationships effectively, Adam has implemented strict boundaries to protect his time and well-being. “I've learned to not be emotional about it. It's totally fine now,” he states (30:22). By establishing clear guidelines—such as no weekend work and zero tolerance for disrespectful behavior—Adam ensures that his interactions remain professional and respectful.

Personal Growth and Reconnection with Business

The episode delves into Adam’s personal journey of rediscovering his passion for his business through the establishment of better boundaries. “I don't want to worry anymore. And I've worried my whole life,” he shares (52:01). Achieving sobriety and addressing personal challenges have significantly impacted his approach to business, allowing him to foster a more balanced and fulfilling professional life. This transformation has reignited his enthusiasm for design, leading him to explore new ventures aimed at community betterment, such as developing affordable housing in the Palisades.

Future Plans and Evolving Mission

Looking ahead, Adam is focused on expanding his impact beyond traditional interior design. He is actively involved in developing initiatives like La Can Do, a foundation providing free furnishings to disaster-affected communities. Additionally, Adam is exploring real estate development projects aimed at creating sustainable, fireproof housing in the Palisades. “I can take what I've learned as a communicator, as a therapist, as a Broadway guy, as a salesman and as a designer and that this is what I was meant to do,” he concludes (45:17). His vision encompasses not only aesthetic excellence but also meaningful contributions to the community and environment.

Key Takeaways and Insights

• Authenticity and Transparency: Building trust through honest communication is essential for long-term client relationships.

• Managing Growth: Rapid expansion requires careful planning and the right team dynamics to maintain quality and consistency.

• Setting Boundaries: Clear professional boundaries protect personal well-being and foster respectful client interactions.

• Adapting Financial Models: Flexible billing options and transparent pricing can enhance client satisfaction and business sustainability.

• Personal Development: Addressing personal challenges and prioritizing self-care can lead to renewed passion and business success.

Notable Quotes

• "Interior design has a very weird reputation with rich people. They all think we're out to scam them." — Adam Hunter (05:30)

• "I am always authentic and honest and open and transparent. Sometimes to a fault, I would say." — Adam Hunter (06:28)

• "I was not successful with it, to be totally honest. I had learned how to run a business pretty darn well. I had not learned how to scale a business." — Adam Hunter (10:36)

• "Celebrities don't have any boundaries. They'll call you in the middle of the night, yelling about their coffee table." — Adam Hunter (38:41)

• "I don't want to worry anymore. And I've worried my whole life." — Adam Hunter (52:01)

Conclusion

Adam Hunter’s journey underscores the importance of balancing creativity with business acumen. By setting clear boundaries, fostering authentic relationships, and embracing personal growth, Adam has rekindled his love for his business and is poised to make meaningful impacts both within and beyond the interior design industry. His story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of resilience, integrity, and continual personal development in achieving professional fulfillment.