Diary by ASID Designer Carol Spong
We had a delightful visit. My client Lori was so well prepared with a list of her health concerns as well as ideas she’d collected to address those concerns. She had thoughts about how to ease the strain on her back, knees, arms and hands.
Lori even had a wish list at the ready. She’d clipped magazine photos of kitchens that inspired. She was full of enthusiasm and good humor. In fact, I think she only frowned once. She had just finished sharing her favorite looks when she stopped abruptly and met my gaze. She uttered two words but they had the weight of unwavering conviction, “No country!”
She didn’t make me promise anything overtly but I have no problem ensuring that images of roosters and checkered café curtains are omitted from my designs.
Lori’s daughter was present for the meeting and was a huge help as we measured everything in the kitchen. It never fails, however, when I’m working with clients as friendly as Lori and her daughter, the conversation flows so easily so we missed a few measurements that we’ll have to go back for.
This diary entry wouldn’t be complete without a copy of Lori’s thank you note to me after our initial interview:
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Hi Carol,
It was great to meet you and Bianca yesterday, and truly exciting. I have honestly never done anything like this, my focus for many years has been on raising kids and working!
I just looked at your website, and now I am even more excited. I had to let you know that I love your designs - the kitchens are beautiful, and really seemed to align with a feeling I like. I described it to you as modern, but not too modernistic, and that seems to be just the sort of atmosphere you create. And gosh, I didn't see anything that looked like "country" at all! How did we end up such a good match?
One thing I wanted to express is that I am a very happy person. I have such a great life, and I appreciate it every day. My loving family is just what I always wanted, and it is such a compliment that our kids wanted to move near us. I have so much fun with my husband, and even with my health problems this is unquestionably the best time of my life. Having a kitchen that would function more comfortably for me would surely enhance the family interaction that I enjoy so much. I am trying to say that in addition to having the helpful changes, I would love for my kitchen to express how happy I am! Yep, I want a happy kitchen. And since we intend to stay in our home forever, we are not in any way concerned about things that would affect resale value - this design is all about us! I love things that are a bit different and fun.
If you have any questions or want more input from me, feel free to use email in addition to my cell phone. I check email at least 2 times a day. Thank you so much for working on this project on our behalf! Wow, I am so excited I couldn't sleep last night. I can't wait to see what you come up with.
Lori
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