Let us introduce you to the Valley’s top design and build professionals. Today, let’s get to know Traci Taylor of Arise Interiors.
How did you get started in the design/build industry?I grew up in it, as my mother is a designer and my father a developer. I studied at the Art Institute of Colorado and then moved to San Diego landing a great job at a design build company. I worked there for 10 years before starting my own company in 2012.
What is your favorite project in Arizona? I am blessed with the opportunity to work on some commercial and residential project. For commercial I loved design for the Autism Academy in Tucson and for residential this whole house remodel in a fun neighborhood called Colonial Solana, one of Tucson’s Historic Residential Districts.
What inspires you and your work?At heart I am a problem solver. I love getting to know my clients and learn what problems they have with their space and how we can make it work better for them. I love innovative design solutions and coming up with things that break conventions. Sometimes this includes classic and timeless pieces and others we’re going pretty far out there with materials and uses. Either way, it has to be a solution for the client and really function well. We’re changing the way people live and use their spaces.
What is something timeless every home should have? Great natural lighting and cloth napkins. Art is really important too. It does not have to be expensive but it does have to be unique and well done.
What is considered trendy in homes at this time? Being at home. All. the. time. But really over the last year I saw and used a lot of black. window frames, cabinets, you name it. I don’t think that would have flown in 2018 for example. I think all of this this is going to get shaken up by “shelter in place” restrictions. We are all looking at our homes differently now and really assessing how well it works for you. Comfort and functionality are going to be really important considerations for people.
What do you consider your biggest professional accomplishment? Truthfully it is having been able to balance a career with raising a family and not having monumental sacrifices to either. There are a few awards I am pretty proud of, particularly ASID awards which are judged by peers. To me that is evidence of a good balance. Happy, health kids and designs that get recognized. I’m delighted by it.
What advice do you have for young people or students hoping to pursue a design/build career? Do what you love but don’t short cut the time needed to learn how to design the details. Always remember to consider what is happening beyond the four wall that you are designing within.
What are you working on now? I am working on half a dozen projects right now including a new modern salon in Tucson and a contemporary hacienda master suite.
