Behind the Design: Ariel Richardson
Designer Spotlight: Ariel Richardson of ASR Design Studio, Santa Clara, CA
How did you get where you are today?
I grew up in Vacaville, San Francisco, Oakland, moved to Santa Clara for the boyfriend (local bay area). I always wanted to start my own business and saw the perfect opportunity after moving to the south bay.
ASR Design Studio
DESIGN
The moment I knew I wanted to be an interior designer was when…
I was 16 to Europe, it opened my eyes to how vastly different architecture, design, and culture shape the space and your experience.
The most memorable space I’ve ever been in is…
My grandparents house in Lake Tahoe. They built the house from ground up themselves. It has floor to ceiling windows, and a view of the valley and the mountains.
I get to know a new space by….
Getting to know the client, their needs and dreams. Walking through the space to get the feeling.
ASR Design Studio
My favorite city for design inspiration is…
Venice, Italy.
When I design I feel…
Inspired.
ASR Design Studio
LIFE
Every morning I…
Create priority to-do list, have a cup of coffee.
I treat myself with/by…
A glass of wine (or the bottle) – Powder Keg is my go-to bottle.
My personal style is…
Comfort is top priority. Black with pops of color. Love sweater vests, always wearing layers as the weather is constantly changing.
My tips for staying organized are…
Purge constantly, edit.
I never leave home without…
Sunglasses, tape measure, laser distance meter, notepad, pen.
ASR Design Studio
BUSINESS
My role model is:
Cara Alwill Leyba.
My business mantra is…
Work hard, stay humble.
For interior designers new to the business, I recommend…
I am pretty new to owning my own business but what I have learned through the years is double check your measurements and specifications.
I define success by…
Being able to change people’s life through design.
ASR Design Studio
The best advice I have received is…
Being an interior designer can be emotionally draining at times, always remember to stay true to yourself and hold strong. It’s just business at the end of the day.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned working in the interior design business is…
Always get client approval signature before moving forward with anything.
“I define success by being able to change people’s life through design.”
WHY IVY
Why did you decide to start using Ivy?
I needed to upgrade from excel spreadsheet to a more professional and fluid application.
In one word, what do you hope Ivy will bring to your work life?
Organization.
What’s your favorite feature on Ivy so far?
Everything is packaged together so I can work more efficiently. Online payments are great too.
ASR Design Studio
ASR Design Studio