Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM OCTOBER 2021 36 A S S O C I A T I O N N E W S solutions, rolling library ladders, hardware – everything one would need when designing a high-end kitchen. NKBA: What's the process to select which brands are featured in your showroom? JC: I wouldn't say there is one particular process. However, with so much product being sold online, we try to target brands that aren't readily available for purchase online, or offer some degree of customization, as the end-consumer and designer may have difficulty navigating that process. Having attended industry trade shows such as KBIS and writing about the brands I love on my blog for the past eight years, I have established some really great relationships. These connections have naturally evolved into brands we wanted to showcase and sell in our showroom. When putting together the showroom, we were approached by numerous brands, but there were certain ones that were a natural fit, and those are the brands we ultimately chose to work with. The brands featured in our showroom will continue to evolve, but we will make sure that if we add a brand, it doesn't overlap or compete with any of the other brands we carry. NKBA: How does being an interior designer also help you be a successful showroom owner? JC: It comes in handy when putting together a showroom. A designer knows what types of tools are needed to sell their projects, and we make sure we have those tools on hand for designers. When you can physically show a client how their space can be optimized, they are on board and they often don't even question the added expense. Even if they may not have the budget at the time, we like to train their eye by showing them the best, and often they'll be back when they can afford it. NKBA: Do you have any advice for someone who wants to open a showroom? JC: Do your homework! Keep abreast of the industry players by attending trade shows regularly, and keep on top of what is trending, so you know what is currently available in the marketplace. Establish relationships and network often. Get to know the community – their habits, their likes/dislikes, and understand the demographic you are serving. Opening a showroom is hard work and not for the faint- hearted. To ensure continued success, you must be committed to evolving as the business and industry changes – it will, and the key is always to be one step ahead. The best-laid plans don't always work out as you think, so you have to be flexible and resilient. NKBA: Have you ever considered getting into virtual showrooms? JC: While the idea of a virtual showroom may be appealing, it is the experience that comes along with seeing and feeling the product in person that creates the emotion that brings about a sale, at least for the clients we work with. So for now, a physical showroom is what we are focusing on. I think a physical/virtual showroom has the ability to work in tandem with each other, and that may come about as we get further along on this journey. NKBA: How can people follow along with your work, and what are your social handles? JC: We're on all the major social platforms, but Pinterest and Instagram are our current favorites (@cozystylishchic). I'm really about the process and what goes on behind the scenes – it's not always that pretty – so I am less likely to overthink what is being posted when I know it will disappear after 24 hours. I am much more spontaneous there as well! NKBA: Now, on to the fun questions. What's your favorite color and texture combination right now? JC: I love rich ochre and deep teal mixed with fluted walnut and a leathered stone, preferably with a hint of color and lots of movement. I'm kind of over-predictable and am always looking for fresh new things that excite me. NKBA: One piece you're lusting after? JC: That's a no-brainer: the Monogram Hearth Oven. We have one in the showroom and I'd really love to have one at home. It makes the BEST pizza, and not only is it easy to use to cook everyday meals, but it is such a crowd pleaser and great for entertaining. Need I mention the beautiful brass finish, too? It's got both form and function, which is what I'm always looking for in the kitchen. NKBA: Top 4 design trends for 2022? JC: 1. Cleaner, more simplified lines and using texture for visual interest. 2. Natural wood tones in the kitchen and a move away from the ubiquitous white and gray, to which we've grown all too accustomed. 3. Emphasis on Indoor/Outdoor Living – there's a blur between indoors and out, and we've taken out those barriers that traditionally blurred the space, in essence extending our living space. 4. Technology – motion/touch activation in response to COVID-19. NKBA: Trend you wish would disappear? JC: Modern Farmhouse. It's way overdone, and even when it's done well, it feels tired. There is so much fresh design out there, so continue to look forward instead of doing the same thing over and over again. (continued) RO

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