Julie Schuster Design Studio was born from a desire to blend creativity with a commitment to community well-being.
Guided by a mission to create spaces that are not only visually stunning but also functional, accessible, and wellness-focused, Julie Schuster leads her team in transforming environments that truly enhance their clients’ lives. In her interview with MysticMag, she discusses how the studio’s unique combination of interior design expertise and a deep understanding of feng shui principles ensures each project is both tailored and innovative.
This approach has set them apart in the competitive New York City design scene, where quality and originality are paramount.
What inspired the creation of Julie Schuster Design Studio and what is its primary mission?
When I decided to transition into a more creative business, I wanted to ensure that the company I built would also contribute positively to the community. Our mission at Julie Schuster Design Studio is to guide business professionals by using wellness-focused design to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also safe, accessible, and functional. In doing so, we believe we are making a positive impact by crafting environments that genuinely enhance our clients’ lives.
How does Julie Schuster Design Studio help clients bring their creative visions to life?
One of the most important aspects of my work as an interior designer and feng shui practitioner is to have extensive conversations with clients about their desires and the pain points in their spaces. We ensure that we thoroughly understand these needs before specifying any products, color stories, or even moving beyond the initial discussions.
Once we’ve gathered this information, we move on to developing plans and presenting options. It’s crucial to provide clients with different perspectives, as visualizing without some form of imagery can be challenging. We create to-scale plans, show product photographs, and carefully map out a direction before proceeding with any shopping, whether we’re shopping together or selecting products independently.
Additionally, we focus on identifying what about their space isn’t working for them—whether it’s the aesthetics, functionality, or specific needs like accessibility or lighting. Understanding these elements is essential to creating a space that aligns with their vision and truly enhances their lives.
What unique design services or approaches set Julie Schuster Design Studio apart from other studios?
What sets our studio apart is our unique combination of interior design and customer education. I am deeply involved in the design community, constantly learning about new trends and innovations. Additionally, we distinguish ourselves by incorporating both living-in-place design and feng shui principles into the spaces we create with our clients.
Can you share a success story where Julie Schuster Design Studio significantly transformed a client’s brand or project?
Certainly. In a recent project, we undertook a complete overhaul of an apartment in the city that was part of an estate sale. The previous owner had lived there for many years, and the space was outdated and not suited to the new clients’ needs. These clients, who were empty nesters, wanted a second home in New York City where they could spend quality time with their children and grandchildren. They also envisioned the apartment as a potential full-time residence in the future as they aged.
To address these needs, we incorporated living-in-place design concepts into the renovation. We reconfigured the layout to include a second bedroom that could also serve as an office. We updated the closets, bathrooms, and kitchen, added a washer and dryer, and created ample storage. Our goal was to design a space that was both beautiful and functional, providing safety and comfort for the present while accommodating their needs as they grow older.
How does Julie Schuster Design Studio ensure the quality and originality of its design work?
Ensuring quality and originality in our design work is crucial. While many design elements aren’t copyright-protected, we make sure that everything we post and share is clearly associated with our name. Each project we undertake is uniquely tailored to the specific needs of our clients, rather than following a standard formula.
Being based in New York City, we work with fully licensed and insured contractors and subcontractors. This adherence to high standards is essential in the city’s competitive market, where quality is a must for gaining access to prestigious apartment buildings and cooperative living situations. The end result of working with top-tier teams is evident in the high quality of our completed projects.
What new projects or innovations is Julie Schuster Design Studio excited to introduce?
I recently returned from a visit to a remarkable refrigeration company in St. Louis, MO, which specializes in commercial and custom refrigeration solutions. I had the chance to explore their products in depth, including the option to custom-color refrigeration systems to match cabinetry. This innovation allows us to incorporate beautiful, high-quality refrigeration systems into our designs, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. Unlike the traditional approach of hiding appliances behind decorative panels, this new approach maintains the beauty of the design while offering superior performance. I’m excited to integrate this into upcoming projects and see its impact on our designs.
Find out more about Julie here.
You can reach out to her using:
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 646.295.0018
