Helping clients solve their design problems
Q&A with Janelle Miles, lead interior designer, World of Style, Porter Davis Homes
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I see the main part of my role being able to help clients through the design phase of their build journey. It’s important that I understand what the client wants in order to guide them in creating their own style and helping to achieve a look and feel that’s suited to their needs, wants and desires.
I have both a Diploma of Interior Design and a Diploma of Visual Arts specialising in Photomedia.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU?
I have always had a creative flare and after exploring different artistic avenues, I decided I wanted to be doing something that had an impact on changing people’s lives. I compiled all my interests — visual merchandising, design, fashion and art — and then researched what direction to take. I felt that through interior design I would be able to help people express themselves through their living spaces.
WHAT’S SURPRISING ABOUT INTERIOR DESIGN?
Interior design is not just about selecting fabric for a couch or styling and fluffing cushions. It is all about problem solving, designing for functionality, providing technical thinking and creating the client’s desired look and feel – all need to be considered.
At the same time you need to be aware of budget and space constraints within the home.
WHY NOT WORK FOR YOURSELF?
I have found that working with a company can give you great exposure as to how a business operates and can offer a huge support network that might not exist when working for yourself.
My role at Porter Davis Homes allows me to work collaboratively with a team of like-minded creative designers and provides a diverse group of people that I can learn from.
I am also able to obtain industry knowledge and skills from supply partners and have the luxury of not having stress about looking for work, providing me financial stability.
I believe that if you work for a successful company you can ultimately learn how to be successful yourself.