Learning From Designer Linda Merrill

Here’s a blog that reaches out to two audiences, Surroundings authored by Linda Merrill, interior designer and owner of Chameleon Interiors, based in Masschusetts. She caters to the retail furniture and accessory buyer and she offers good information to the interior designer who reads her blog.

The first thing I noticed is an invitation to designers to compete and get publicity:

George Little Management, LLC (GLM), producer and manager of the ICFF, and Bernhardt Design announce a call for entries – deadline January 15, 2008. ICFF Studio invites submissions from designers working on any and all the product categories exhibited at the ICFF: furniture, seating, carpet and flooring, lighting, outdoor furniture, materials, wall coverings, accessories, textiles, and kitchen and bath. Selected designers win a spot to display their prototypes at ICFF Studio, a group area with individual booths on the exhibition floor.

A ways down the page, Merrill lets us know that,

BravoTV is seeking undiscovered interior design stars for the second season of its hit competition series TOP DESIGN! They're looking for all types of artists, interior designers - up-and-comers, established professionals and those aspiring to greatness. The winner will receive a spread in ELLE DECOR, $100,000 and lots of media coverage.

Her appeal to the retail buyer is characterized by pictures of great design with a hook to something about which we have an interest. For example, she has some extrensive pictures of the mansion featured in the movie Atonement and the decorated White House.

She does one more smart thing. She has a company called To The Trade Buyer’s Service:

Ever see something in a magazine - fabric, furniture, wallpaper or accessories - that you just love, but it's listed as "To the Trade"?

If you've been frustrated by the fact that you don't want to hire a designer just to purchase a single item, then this service is for you.

Bev & Mike
Landfair Furniture + Design Gallery