WHAT OR WHO DO YOU FIND INSPIRING?
Color is one of my biggest sources of inspiration, and I usually frame an interior story around what colors I want to use or can convince a client to get on board with. I tend to look to natural elements and how they pair with architecture. Since moving to San Francisco, I’ve enjoyed photographing potted plants adjacent to the brightly painted Victorians. More specifically though, when I first visit a job site, I research the surroundings of the space. Significant landmarks, neighborhoods, other buildings or natural features. This context serves as invaluable forms of creativity and inspiration, while also helping to keep me focused, so the overall project concept is meaningful and more impactful for the clients.
HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR CREATIVE PROFESSION?
In my early twenties, I visited the Jewish Museum in Berlin and was completely moved by Daniel Libeskind's design. The space evoked so many emotions and I realized how powerful interior design could be. Immediately, I wanted to design spaces that excited people, made them curious or told a story. I pursued a masters degree in Exhibit Design, which focused on many of these ideals, and later worked in event planning, trade show design, furniture design and merchandising. Eventually, I started my own Interior Design firm, where I focus on both residential and commercial interiors, and have the joy of working closely with my clients to tell their stories.
WHAT IS THE TOUGHEST THING YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH PROFESSIONALLY?
Owning your own business has to be one of the hardest things. Especially once you realize how much of it is not the sexy design stuff. With each project or deadline I feel like I'm gaining more insight into what could go wrong, and sadly I don't think I've had to endure the "toughest thing" yet. My approach now is learning how to avoid a major freak out when minor things don't go as planned, so when the big ones come I can take them in stride. This industry requires extensive thought and planning for the smallest details, and that's the hardest part to try manage.
WHO ARE THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL TO YOUR SUCCESS?
My former bosses at From the Source in New York really helped me spread my wings. The owners, Philip & Bob gave me tremendous responsibility to grow their business. I truly had creative freedom and some fantastic on the job learning. While at Pratt Institute, Jon Otis and Keena Suh taught me what an actual concept was, and how to formulate one with meaning. I have a creative network thats too deep to list, but has showed me how much I love to collaborate. My family has provided tremendous guidance, support and have been there through it all.
WHY DO YOU LOVE ADHESIVE?
Brian Bergeron introduced me to Adhesive when we reconnected after his move to SF. I always loved the concept of connecting creatives, especially for independent contractors who live on referrals. Having a network to share resources, approaches to business and ideas with has been essential to the growth of my business. The best part is that you never know who you might meet and what business can come from it. I always say that it only takes one person to get you the big one, and you just never know!
Visit Kristin's upcoming display at Sotheby's International Realty at 1934 Union Street in San Francisco, May 14th through June 2015.
Full Name: Kristin Elizabeth Riccio
Profession: Interior Designer
Industry: Commercial & Residential Design
Website: greeneandgreydesign.com
Facebook: facebook.com/greeneandgreydesign
Instagram: instagram.com/greeneandgrey
Twitter: twitter.com/greeneandgrey
Pinterest: pinterest.com/greeneandgrey
Please contact member directly for information about production, permission and usage.
All images are copyrighted.