An Interview with Lisa Steelman

 

Q&A with Designer Lisa Steelman: Navigating Life’s Canvas with Design and Joy

 

Tell us about yourself.

I’m not just an interior designer; I’m a passionate creator, trained strategist, devoted mother, and the driving force behind Bellissima Design Group. Having recently embarked on a new chapter in Loudoun County, VA my journey revolves around transforming spaces, making them uniquely welcoming and authentic.

 

Starting your own business – what’s the story behind it?

Starting my own design business wasn’t just a career shift; it was a calling to follow my passion for design that I’d nurtured throughout my life. Despite excelling in strategy and problem-solving as a senior executive, my heart was always drawn to transforming spaces. After my home was featured on PBS’s “If You Lived Here,” I took it as a divine sign to wholeheartedly commit to design. It became a journey of intense preparation, certification, and leaving the corporate world to embrace a lifelong passion for creating beautiful spaces. Now, clients benefit from a designer skilled in both strategic expertise and creative intuition, offering a unique blend to every project. This journey isn’t just about design; it’s about finding the courage to follow one’s true passion and inspiring others to do the same.

 

What’s the best thing about owning your business?

Running Bellissima Design Group is like having a canvas where my executive skills and personal touch come together. It’s more than just design; it’s about untangling problems, using smarts, and helping clients draw out what they really want. I find immense satisfaction in turning their needs into real, functional designs that make their spaces stand out. It’s not just a job—it’s like joining forces with clients to create spaces that tell their stories and truly feel like home. Clients are making a significant investment, and I take that responsibility seriously.

 

How has it changed your life?

Embarking on this design journey after my executive career is a dream come true. Crafting a puzzle of functional, beautiful, and budget-friendly designs, I get to employ both my creative and strategic skillset. Delving into the unique stories of my clients, I uncover the nuggets of their individuality and curate spaces that reflect their essence—all within their budget. Witnessing the emotional fulfillment when clients see their new spaces is immensely gratifying, and many times, transforms the client-designer relationship into a trusted friendship by the time the space is unveiled.

 

Your journey before the design world?

In my previous corporate life, I was a road warrior and found creative solutions to political and business development issues. While the experience was rewarding, it left me craving more fulfillment by tapping into my passion for design. As I started Bellissima Design Group, I became increasingly thankful for my business acumen because I have a unique business perspective when managing projects, communicating clearly with clients, and staying within budget.

 

What type of projects do you prefer?

I absolutely love the dynamic balance of my work! Revitalizing old spaces and breathing fresh life into them, playing with vibrant colors, and even embracing virtual collaborations for projects like draperies—it’s this mix that keeps my design journey thrilling and inspiring. Whether it’s large-scale commercial ventures feeding my business side or the intricate art of residential design nurturing my creativity, every project is a new adventure.

 

Personal favorite styles and why?

Transitional style captivates me, skillfully intertwining contemporary and traditional elements in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. It’s not about conforming to a standard; instead, it’s about infusing unique details that resonate with each client’s individuality. For those with an equestrian flair, envision spaces enriched with the tactile warmth of rich leathers, subtly echoing the sophistication of riding gear. These thoughtful incorporations go beyond mere aesthetics; they’re a commitment to translating a client’s passions and lifestyle into a personalized design narrative.

In the commercial realm, my preference leans towards the classic and opulent, drawing inspiration from the timeless richness akin to Ralph Lauren. Picture a space radiating sophistication, with a palette of deep, inviting tones, bold patterns, and sumptuous textures – a hallmark of my approach to commercial design.

 

What can a client expect from you?

Expect not just a designer but a partner who values honesty, fun, and encourages you to step beyond your comfort zones. Each space I craft is a unique reflection of the client, designed with meticulous respect for their budget. Leveraging my many suppliers I find the best pieces, many of which are customizable to your style.

 

How do you work with clients?

Our creative journey starts with a discovery call, an essential step to understand the nuances of their project. For in-person clients, an at-home consultation allows us to immerse ourselves in the space, feel its energy, and discuss ideas firsthand. For those who prefer a virtual approach, we kick off with a Zoom call, ensuring a seamless collaboration where clients take measurements to guide the design process accurately. In both scenarios, I leverage 3D modeling, providing a lifelike visualization of the proposed design and making the decision-making process enjoyable and interactive. This virtual approach is particularly beneficial for draperies, offering a comprehensive view of custom and semi-custom options.

 

Why should a client work with you?

Imagine having a seasoned design friend, a certified pro, and an executive all rolled into one. I bring a unique blend of design creativity, executive insight, and coaching skills to the table, ensuring that crafting your dream home is not only a personal journey but also one that stays comfortably within your budget. We’ll delve into your design wish list, align it with your budget, and embark on a creative adventure together. I’ll leverage the power of Decorating Den vendors across different price points, curating a look that’s not just yours but uniquely and authentically yours. It’s more than creating spaces; it’s about sculpting a home that resonates with you—minus any financial surprises.

 

Tell us about your family and spare time.

In my blended family, alongside a lovable Bernadoodle, spare time is a cherished luxury. Learning pickleball and golf, working, and immersing myself in the joy of design define a life filled with love, creativity, and the pursuit of turning spaces into personal sanctuaries.