Why The Design Industry Must Remain Optimistic In The Face Of COVID-19


Design by Four Point Design Build.

Everyone in every industry is in crisis mode about life and business and how we move on in this time of a pandemic. Let’s all agree COVID-19 is a serious cluster you-know-what!

This is especially hard for small entrepreneurs that work in the architecture and design space. Certainly, with so many major industry events being canceled and gatherings of all kinds ceasing to a halt for the foreseeable future there is a serious economic impact. But what if there is a bright side?

What I love most about the Interior Design culture is that homes are what soothe and support our souls in times of uncertainty and it times of sheer jubilance. That is the special power interiors designers, architects and makers have – they create experiences in our homes that impact our interior lives.


Design by Alexandra Naranjo.

We seek a calming space when we frequently head to the spa, beach or mountains to relax and rejuvenate. We know it will have a profoundly positive effect on our wellbeing. But those trips are not happening. Interior Designers know how to create a sanctuary for your soul in your everyday life – in your home and even at work.

Our nervous system is greatly affected by our surrounding environment. We respond, whether we know it or not, with the production of stress hormones – no one needs those nefarious hormones in the time of a health crisis.


Design by Victoria Sanchez: Victoria at Home.

So while there is a serious short term impact, what if there is a long term benefit. I was speaking with my friend, Ann Feldstein, who said “With all these people sequestered at home for the next two-three weeks, it is going to inspire people to want to improve their home. And that is where the glimmer of hope lies… people instinctually want to improve their surroundings and if you are spending lots of time there – it’s time to seek out the guidance of a professional.”


Design by Alan Tanksley.

Now is the time to learn to love your loved ones a little deeper, to rethink your business and it’s long term goals, and to embrace your home – because we are all stuck there for a while. Be kind to yourself, be good to others, do good for the world and most of all, think about how your home influences your well being and outlook.


Design by Kammi Reiss.

I end with this passage that I was reminded of listing to the New York Times Daily from C.S. Lewis On Living in an Atomic Age: “If we are all going to be destroyed by an atomic bomb, let that bomb when it comes find us doing sensible and human things – praying, working, teaching, reading, listening to music, bathing the children, playing tennis, chatting to our friends over a pint and a game of darts – not huddled together like frightened sheep and thinking about bombs. They may break our bodies (a microbe can do that) but they need not dominate our minds.”


About Andrew Joseph | Andrew Joseph’s passion for design and rich journalistic history led to the launch of his boutique PR firm in 2012. Prior to enjoying the successes of Andrew Joseph PR, Andrew honed his editorial skills at Vanity Fair and Allure. This experience, as well as the strong network of contacts developed over the years in public relations, brings a valuable edge to his role as contributing editor. See more of his work for ASPIRE here. Photo by Mary Dorn.

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