Tracy Daoud is Designer and Founder of award winning design firm Interior Designs by Tracy. Based in Montreal, Canada, Interior Designs by Tracy work across both residential and commercial sectors. From a childhood of watching home improvement shows on HGTV to becoming a prestigious Interior Designer, Tracy talks us through her challenges of establishing the studio, her creative process and her favourite part of Interior Design.
So Tracy, how did you overcome the initial challenges of establishing the studio?
There are so many challenges to overcome once you start the business. I would say that over the years having gained experience in the industry helped me a lot, building a solid network foundation helped me kick start my business.
What is the first thing you do after receiving the brief for a new design project?
Most crucial thing is knowing and understanding your client. I would never start the job if I feel like I haven’t understood exactly what my client truly desires. It requires a lot of ongoing communication and receiving a lot of inspirational pictures in order to determine my clients taste and create their dream space.
What are you most favourite projects to work on?
I have so many! But to narrow it down, I would say #gascogneproject. I really enjoyed working on that space because sky was the limit and I was able to put my creative cap on and design such an original house. (Photos Below)
What would you say the morning bathroom routine in Montreal? And how does this affect your design?
Keeping a routine is very essential for my well being and it is known to improve a person’s overall health and establish great time management. My morning routine consists of brushing my teeth before anything that means even before making a conversation! I then wash my face with Kiel’s face wash & gently massage it with a jade roller and apply moisturiser right after. As much as I would love to have more time in the bathroom, let’s face it working/mommy duties calls! Having counter space is a must in all my bathroom designs.
How do you find products to use in your work? Do you have a favourite magazine / social platform you use? How about your favourite website?
Favourite website would be Wayfair I am truly obsessed because there are millions of suppliers I get to work with. I believe that e-commerce is always the way to go, I love working with suppliers all over the world, just reminds me of how technology has evolved tremendously and things are as easy as a click of a button! Social platform would definitely be instagram, I have built a great set of audience who refer me plenty of clients
If you had a time machine, what era of design would you go back to?
That’s a tough one! I would say during the Pop Art Era, if you scroll down my designs you see how I love incorporating pops of colour!
What are you most proud of so far?
I am proud of my constant determination, I am always seeking to learn more and be the best version of myself.
What is your most favourite part of Interior Design? And most disliked?
My favourite part is being able to see my client’s reaction when the space has been completed! The thing I most dislike would be taking on site measurements; it takes up a lot of time! Wish they came up with a faster solution for precise dimensions.
What advice do you have for young Designers and Architects reading this interview?
Don’t be afraid to pick other designers brains, get yourself a mentor! Try to go to as many networking events as you can!
So, what’s next?
Working on a lot of new office spaces this year, we are leaning more and more towards commercial spaces, which is very challenging and rewarding.
