Why Strategic Design Matters
- Jennifer DeWitt
- Jun 2
- 2 min read
Beyond Aesthetics to Purpose
As my firm approaches its 16th anniversary this September, I've been doing some deep thinking about what truly sets professional designers apart in today's crowded market. The answer? Strategy over tactics.
Strategic vs. Tactical Design
What is tactical decorating? In a nutshell, it’s solving the problem right in front of your face without considering the bigger picture.
Strategic design, by contrast, considers the entire ecosystem of your home. We begin by asking deeper questions: How do you actually live? What frustrates you daily? How might your needs change over time? What feelings should your space evoke?
Sure, we could pick a paint color for you today, but what if, in a year, you decide to buy all new furniture, and you have your heart set on a certain color of sofa… but what we chose doesn’t work with it? We didn’t know when we picked that color what would eventually end up in that room, and now you’re facing an even bigger project by having to re-paint.
Why We Don't Do Piecemeal Projects
Clients often ask: "Can you just help me pick a paint color?" While tackling projects piece by piece seems manageable, my 16 years of experience proves this approach is:
Unprofessional - We can't properly diagnose design problems in isolation
Inefficient - Creating disconnects in flow, scale, and cohesion
More Expensive - Leading to purchases that don't work long-term
Never-Ending - Leaving homes in perpetual "almost done" status
Instead, we design holistically while implementing in strategic phases if needed. This ensures every decision supports your larger goals, even when executed over time.
The 30,000-Foot View
What separates our approach is our insistence on stepping back to examine the entire home before recommending solutions. This broader perspective helps us identify root causes rather than symptoms, prevent creating new problems while solving existing ones, and create spaces that flow seamlessly together.
Professionalism Matters (Talent Isn't Enough)
Social media has created the misconception that good taste equals professional capability. The truth? Managing successful design projects requires technical knowledge, project management skills, budget expertise, and established business practices, not just an eye for beauty.
I've seen too many clients come to us after disappointing experiences with "designers" who had wonderful Pinterest boards but no systems for execution.
The Experience Is Part of the Design
What I'm most proud of as we approach our sweet 16 is the joyful experience we've crafted for clients. We manage all the complex, technical details so you don't have to, and we have FUN doing it! Some of my dearest friendships have grown from client relationships, as there's something deeply connecting about creating the backdrop for someone's life.
Ready to experience the difference? Our comprehensive design services create spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful, and we promise to make the process enjoyable along the way. Schedule a consultation with our team now.
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