We are sharing a Q&A with our very own, Lawrence Levy. Lawrence started his own firm, www.lawrenceallaninc.com, in 2006 and continues to operate it today. Lawrence was introduced to us when we were assigned to the same project by a mutual client. Lawrence officially joined The O’Dell Group this year and works as our Interior Designer. Read below our Q&A where Lawrence describes his line of work, where he gets his inspiration from, and so much more!

What is your role and responsibilities at The O’Dell Group?

I am the Interior Designer for The O'Dell Group. Working with the client and the rest of the team I focus on the development and implementation of a comprehensive interior design. I am a “big picture guy” developing floor plans, ceiling plans, lighting plans, elevations, sections, sketches, and architectural details that help bring to life our custom kitchens, bathrooms, living spaces, indoor/outdoor spaces. I also work closely with the client on furniture and furnishings, Iighting, window treatments, and architectural finishes.

What do people commonly misunderstand about your line of work?

There is still a good deal of confusion as to the difference between an Interior Designer vs. an Interior Decorator. To be able to call yourself an Interior Designer, you must have completed schooling and formal training at an accredited college or university. Upon graduating you should apprentice with a registered and established interior designer. And you should be NCIDQ certified. Given that I teach at the New York School of Interior Design, one of the nation’s most highly rated schools in our profession, I am a big believer in education and training.

How do you work with a client to define their needs?

Lots of communication and lots of listening. When meeting with clients I am always eager for them to talk more and me less. Having worked in the profession for many years, there are key questions that you need to ask to, but I work very hard to make the clients comfortable. I believe the work we do together should be joyous, clients sense that and are eager to share with you their wants and needs and most importantly, their vision. The best designer/client relationships are collaborative.

Where do you find everyday inspiration? 

I have always been a creative guy so I find it in many places. Also, I am a really restless guy so I am always eager to learn more… I find traveling and art particularly inspiring. I find delving into and learning about different cultures inspiring. I can find inspiration in a piece of music, or right now sitting here looking out at this beautiful autumn day. But the best inspiration often comes when the clients reveal something about themselves.

When designing a room what is the most important factor for you?

The client’s needs and the feeling the client wants the space to evoke.

What do you love most about your field of work? '

With each new client comes the opportunity to create something original, that new “spark of creating”.