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Designer Friday: An aspire Exclusive Interview With Alissa Johnson

Alissa Johnson Interiors is a full-service interior design firm, specializing in curating timeless residential and boutique commercial interiors with a wide array of services for clients in Chicago, NYC, Houston, and beyond. Alissa is a firm believer that interior design should enhance people’s lives, and like every client, every project is unique. Her most important objective is to create spaces that are elevated, yet warm and functional – no matter the style. Creating the unexpected while maintaining a sense of timelessness, Alissa’s engagement in every detail from conception to completion, results in a specialized approach for every project, from new builds to a simple quick makeover. See some stunning designs in today’s Designer Friday.

The plush bedding and bright color scheme create the perfect blend of comfort and energy, making it easy to feel refreshed and cozy as you linger in bed for those extra morning minutes.

The plush bedding and bright color scheme create the perfect blend of comfort and energy, making it easy to feel refreshed and cozy as you linger in bed for those extra morning minutes.

Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Alissa Johnson: My parents had an interior designer growing up and I remember the shift in how we felt in the space after – it gave us a further sense of warmth in our home and we were always so eager to spend time in the rooms that the designer focused on. I’ve also always had a huge passion for textiles, color, etc and I naturally had a keen eye for design. This, coupled with my experiences growing up, took me down the path of interior design!

Andrew: How do you stay creative and inspired?
Alissa: Burnout can be real in the interior design field from constantly managing trades on site to championing projects through completion while simultaneously needing to be creative at all times. I believe that learning is a never-ending process and I make it a point to constantly consume interior design content, be it through coffee table books, or digital platforms like Instagram as well as get inspiration from visiting hotels and restaurants. These avenues not only help me stay creative and inspired but also keep me updated with the latest trends and provide a fresh perspective on design concepts.

The seemingly melted marble sink, gold accents, and dark lime washed walls create a dramatic, luxurious statement in this bold powder room.

The seemingly melted marble sink, gold accents, and dark lime washed walls create a dramatic, luxurious statement in this bold powder room.

Andrew: What is your favorite thing about being a designer?
Alissa: One of the primary reasons for pursuing a career in design was the desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives by transforming their surroundings into spaces that they love and feel comfortable in. Nothing brings more joy than finally completing a project and it is time for our client to enjoy the space that we have put so much time and effort into. It’s these moments that reaffirm my love for design and motivate me to continue creating spaces that resonate with people on a personal level.

Andrew: Can you tell us about a specific moment in your career that made you feel accomplished?
Alissa: A huge moment for me was when we started to consider prospective clients’ personalities to ensure that their communication and collaboration style was aligned with our firm’s preferred way of working. When you are starting, you don’t realize that when a prospective client is interviewing you, you are also interviewing them, as not everyone will be a fit for your firm. The day that we turned down a high net-worth potential client because they had exhibited some red flags with how they acted towards me and my team, was a huge win for me. Having the power and flexibility to say no to jobs that aren’t a great fit is such a luxury and I feel very thankful that I am in a position where I can do so and prioritize my firm’s well-being.

With the sunlight pouring in, this marble bathtub offers the perfect spot to soak and sunbathe.

With the sunlight pouring in, this marble bathtub offers the perfect spot to soak and sunbathe.

Andrew: If you weren’t a designer, what would you be and why?
Alissa: If I wasn’t an interior designer, I would be in fashion. I absolutely love playing with different looks and it all goes back to making someone feel comfortable and their best self.

Andrew: What’s your favorite cocktail?
Alissa: Skinny spicy margarita always!

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