Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Brazil.
Hi Carolyn, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My background is a study in contrasts, with my mother’s side influencing me in the arts and music, and my father’s side exposing me to a more traditional business world. My maternal grandfather was an abstract and figurative painter, and my mom and her brothers were very musical. I always had my hands in some type of creative endeavor, be it music or art. I studied Psychology at UCLA because I was interested in learning about why people are who they are and what motivates them. My first career was as an executive recruiter for several large consulting firms, which built my business acumen and developed my strong organizational skills. However, it wasn’t a totally fulfilling job for me as it lacked creativity. Fast forward many years later, and my husband and I decided to make a lifestyle change and move to the PNW from the Bay Area with our three school age children. After my move up here, I started staging homes for sale. Those projects lead to referrals from realtors and clients asking for design help. From there, my business has steadily grown through referrals and repeat business. I love when a client reaches out to me after a project to discuss our next project together. Or, when I receive a call from a new client and they tell me they were a referral. It’s the highest compliment I can receive.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Working independently can be challenging at times because I don’t have a partner to turn to for that casual chat to brainstorm an idea or to creatively address a dilemma I may be facing on a project. However, I am fortunate to have very talented circle of trusted friends and family who always lend an ear and provide insight when needed. And equally important, the design community in this area is incredibly friendly and open, and there are always networking events and educational opportunities. On top of all that, I work with a fabulous vendor community with reps who are always available and willing to help with sourcing and ideas.
We’ve been impressed with Carolyn Brazil Design LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I started my interior design business at 50 years old. While that may seem old to some, or crazy to others, it was the best decision I could have made, and I have years of perspective and experience to draw upon. I also have kids who are grown and the time and flexibility to completely dedicate myself to my career and pursue those projects that inspire me creatively. I specialize in residential remodels and furnishing. I work alongside my clients to select materials for their remodels (flooring, countertops, tile, cabinetry, lighting, color palette, etc.) and furnishings for those spaces that don’t necessarily need a remodel. but would benefit from a refresh. I love to take an existing space and transform it through paint, wallpaper, furniture, lighting, decor, etc. (Never underestimate the impact that books, plants and lighting has on a space!) I love the smaller projects as much as anything else. While I design both traditional and contemporary spaces, I definitely lean toward incorporating a warmer palette and a mix of textures. I use as many existing pieces from my client’s homes as possible to keep the character of the space. Bringing a piece back to life through refinishing or reupholstering is very satisfying to me. The feedback I receive from clients is that they appreciate my ability to see the potential in a space, bring creative ideas to the table, and commit to the project to see things through to the finish line. I have not advertised, and I am admittedly terrible at posting on social media, but despite that, my business has grown through referrals. That is the best compliment I can receive.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Risk-taking is an essential part of growth. Without putting ourselves into new territory, pushing boundaries or taking on challenges, we stagnate. I suppose starting my business was a risk, and I’ve taken creative risks on projects. All of these have turned out for the best. When things have not gone as planned, I make a mental note, learn from it and move on.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://carolynbrazildesign.com
- Instagram: @carolynbrazildesign
