Decorating Guides
Designer Sketch: Danielle Wallinger
Starting in an unexpected place, this interior designer talks about geothermal systems, inspiration sources and the most joyous color
Danielle Wallinger's interior design career started in the most unexpected place: the mall, where she worked at a popular juniors' store as the visual display manager. "It quickly became evident that I had a knack for arranging and rearranging things. My journey started when I had to figure out how to turn my strengths into a career. Interior design was it!" says Wallinger, who adds that once she started on the path to become an interior designer, she never turned back.
Houzz Profile: Danielle Wallinger | Find an interior designer or architect
Houzz Profile: Danielle Wallinger | Find an interior designer or architect
Is everything in your design process digital ?
The vast majority of my work is done digitally, but that is a relatively new approach. I learned how to draw by hand and did so for many years before I relented. ... I think there is still a great value in the skill of hand-drafting. Same goes for image and mood boards. Now everything can be done on the computer, but don't underestimate the value of learning about the hand of a fabric.
The vast majority of my work is done digitally, but that is a relatively new approach. I learned how to draw by hand and did so for many years before I relented. ... I think there is still a great value in the skill of hand-drafting. Same goes for image and mood boards. Now everything can be done on the computer, but don't underestimate the value of learning about the hand of a fabric.
Which professionals in your industry do you admire most?
The craftsmen who make my vision into a reality. How do they do everything?
The most important thing on your work desk is ...
My tape measure, because in interior design, size does matter.
Which iconic interior designer or artist would you like to work with?
Kelly Wearstler. She's not afraid to take risks, and that's why we all know her name today.
Bedding: Kelly Wearstler
The craftsmen who make my vision into a reality. How do they do everything?
The most important thing on your work desk is ...
My tape measure, because in interior design, size does matter.
Which iconic interior designer or artist would you like to work with?
Kelly Wearstler. She's not afraid to take risks, and that's why we all know her name today.
Bedding: Kelly Wearstler
Your ideal client is ...
Someone who isn't afraid to do something different that hasn't already been done. Someone with guts and who can trust in my expertise.
Can you describe your client for the living room above?
This space reflects my client's renowned personality and connection with the Western lifestyle. I mixed modern interpretations of classic pieces with textured finishes; the design encapsulates the new direction of Western.
Someone who isn't afraid to do something different that hasn't already been done. Someone with guts and who can trust in my expertise.
Can you describe your client for the living room above?
This space reflects my client's renowned personality and connection with the Western lifestyle. I mixed modern interpretations of classic pieces with textured finishes; the design encapsulates the new direction of Western.
Who are your design inspirations?
A person of inspiration for me is David Hicks. He was so far ahead of his time, and his ability to walk the line and successfully mix modern with traditional style is a true talent. I find other inspirations everywhere, usually when I'm least expecting it.
A person of inspiration for me is David Hicks. He was so far ahead of his time, and his ability to walk the line and successfully mix modern with traditional style is a true talent. I find other inspirations everywhere, usually when I'm least expecting it.
Where in the world do you want to go to next?
I love to travel, and I think being exposed to anything outside your element can inspire you in unexpected ways. I'd say top of my list would be Europe. There would be so much history and diversity to take in.
What inspires your work?
My clients — my work is all about them. Delving into their persona and interpreting that into a beautiful space takes patience, understanding and a true love for the craft.
If you could pick one color in the world to live with, which would you pick?
That's easy. I'd pick orange. I've always loved orange and always will. It's warm, joyful and quirky — all the characteristics that I value in my life.
More:
Designer Sketch: Noel Cross
I love to travel, and I think being exposed to anything outside your element can inspire you in unexpected ways. I'd say top of my list would be Europe. There would be so much history and diversity to take in.
What inspires your work?
My clients — my work is all about them. Delving into their persona and interpreting that into a beautiful space takes patience, understanding and a true love for the craft.
If you could pick one color in the world to live with, which would you pick?
That's easy. I'd pick orange. I've always loved orange and always will. It's warm, joyful and quirky — all the characteristics that I value in my life.
More:
Designer Sketch: Noel Cross
One of my current projects is using a geothermal system; it is very exciting to have clients that value environmentally sound technology. It will be the first geothermal home I've done, and I'm looking forward to the experience. I love doing something I've never done before.