the biggest interior design mistake I ever made and how I fixed it

How one painful mistake led me to helping many hundreds of frustrated homeowners change their awkward and tricky spaces into functional and comfortable rooms they love.

Before there was a high ranking, niched interior design blog. Before being featured on Apartment Therapy, ADPro, Redbook, and others. Before the 4k+ loyal subscribers and Pinterest followers… there was a frustrated guy in a dead-end job.

Trying to “people please” my way through the days.

Getting steam rolled in the process.

I used to be head of marketing for a law firm with four owners.

I secretly and desperately wanted to work in interior design, but that wasn’t exactly a rung on the marketing career ladder.

The truth was change felt scary and staying put felt like the logical thing.

So, I convinced myself that it wasn’t the time to make a life-changing decision, and I quietly let my dream go.

2008, One Small Step & A Deal Too Good to Pass Up.

In 2008, like so many others, I lost my job. Even though the firm was billing business, the effects of The Great Recession made big waves. Fearing the worst, the Partners voted to cut staff, including me.

After I was fired, I thought, here’s my chance to start my interior design business!

Did having zero “real world design experience” deter me?

No way!

Without my J.O.B. I felt a sort of freedom and expansiveness instead of “jobless” dread.

I spent the next year taking online courses, earning certifications, and daydreaming about the fun I’d have working in my own interior design firm.

As money started to run out, my pragmatic ex-partner pointed out that I didn’t have a single client or even a “plan” to get one.

He was right.

I was completely unprepared for this endeavor and my dream began to fade again.

Life went on, and a few months later, we sold our house and moved in with my ailing father-in-law because it was easier to take care of him in his own house.

As we settled in, we decided to redecorate the living room.

I immediately said, *“Let me do it! We can be my first client!”*

With my ex’s blessing, I got to work picking the wall color and hiring flooring installers. It was the one small step I needed to reignite my dream.

For weeks, I worked long hours until all the changes were done, and as soon as the paint was dry, I grabbed my paint and floor sample and we went shopping.

There was a sale ending that day: **No holdovers! Great deals! Final Sales!**

Since we had nothing to sit on, we needed something fast.

Right under the wire, I agreed to buying a very large ‘U’-shaped sectional. The upholstery worked with my samples and we both liked the comfort.

Happy with our purchase, and excited for the quick delivery, we left the store feeling like we accomplished our goal.

… And, The Interior Design Rookie of the Year Award Goes To…

A few days later the delivery truck was in the driveway, and I was excited to see the biggest piece of my vision put into place.

For days, I was dreaming about showing off the sectional to our friends and imagining all the compliments and, oohs and ahhs…

I was really excited to decorate all the finishing touches now too.

I had the perfect place for it, and I couldn’t wait to curl up and watch some TV.

As they brought the first piece in, I thought, hmm, it looks so much bigger than it did in the store.
When they brought the second piece, it already filled in the space I had envisioned the whole thing going.
By the time the third, and longest piece came in, I knew I made a huge mistake…

The sectional didn’t fit in the room. No matter what way I thought of turning it. It was too wide or too long.

*(This is how we had to split the sectional so it would fit in the room. We lived like this for 2 years!)*

a contract with final sale terms — As I signed off on the delivery, the term “Final Sale” was highlighted in yellow, as if mocking me.

I Was Stuck.

In the commotion of getting something, anything… I didn’t measure the room.

Read about what I would do now if I could do it over

If you’d like to read more about this woeful tale, there’s a post on my blog where I re-visit how I would correct all the mistakes that led to this debacle. *(There’s a video with this post too!)*

how I would fix it now

Was this a rookie mistake? Certainly. It was a painful and expensive rookie mistake…

I now had to fess up to my partner that we were stuck with something that was never going to fit or look how I wanted it to. It was like getting a stain on a brand-new shirt, especially if that shirt cost over $4000!

Here it was, my first interior design job and it was a FAIL!

Luckily. my partner still loved it, and he didn’t seem to care. He was happy to have a new place to veg out to watch Stargate.

But I couldn’t shake the feeling that it was all my mistake. I caused us to buy something that didn’t work.

Not only did I not want to show off the room anymore I also thought that I should NOT attempt designing for anyone else either!

It was evident that I should let this interior design dream go once and for all.

One More Try…

By the time 2010 rolled around, I hadn’t worked in a couple of years. I was itching to get back to a routine, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do.

Then one day I saw a want ad for a Design Consultant at a custom furniture store.

It was a sales position. I didn’t know if I was qualified, but I decided to apply anyway. What could it hurt?

A few days later they called and said they wanted to meet me…

I went for the interview, which was more like a test.

I was asked a series of hypothetical questions, took a personality test. Then I was asked to demonstrate that I could coordinate fabrics, finishes, and make a design concept presentation – with all brown fabrics and finishes…

I wasn’t thrilled with the limited color choice, but I varied the patterns and scale and knocked it out of the park!

By the end of the interview they offered me the job.

And, just like that, I was back in the interior design biz!

For the next 8 years, I sold every type of furniture imaginable.

I learned all the finer details of well-crafted furniture, including how to spot it and – more importantly- how to spot the junk too.

Yes indeed, I learned my craft from some of the best designers around. I worked with folks who had decades of career experience.

That meant on-demand training for everything from lead generation to client presentations that were personal and special every-single-time.

By far, the most important thing I learned was how to measure ANY room before selling the furniture.

Having so many talented design mentors around me, I noticed that everyone had a specialization, and I wondered what mine was.

Then, one day it occurred to me….

Making tricky and awkward rooms, functional and comfortable was my special thing.

With the painful memory of my biggest design mistake fresh in my mind, I got really good at figuring out problem rooms.

These rooms had obstructions, like multiple doorways, large fireplaces, built-ins, bump-outs, bays, and niches- anything that made positioning furniture tricky.

I discovered that I could look at a room and furniture arrangements would come to me in the form of shapes that solved all the issues.

It was like I saw rooms as puzzle boards – put the right pieces in and *voila*, success!

Soon my happy clients were recommending me to others with challenging spaces and I became the small, awkward, tricky room guy.

And, best of all…

I’ve had the honor of helping many hundreds of frustrated homeowners just like you go from being stuck, not knowing what to do with their own “problem rooms,” to creating functional & comfortable rooms they love.

a small living room in a split level home

These days I’m known for my actionable and value packed online interior design services.

My e design plans are like recipes for your rooms.

Each design plan is specific to your exact room and every recommendation I suggest is carefully and thoughtfully planned.

This takes all the guess work out, so you don’t have to worry about something not fitting in your room or aligning with your tastes.

I show you what to do from start to finish, just like a recipe.

My plans are robust, but totally achievable because I section out the actions to keep you making progress without getting overwhelmed.

And, unlike other e designers, I don’t just slap together a mood board and send you on your way.

I’m here with you for an entire year as you implement your plan.

Why a year? Does it take that long?

Nope.

But life happens, right?

You have family obligations, and a job that takes up a good chunk of time.

You don’t need the added pressure of having to power through your project because your designer only offers 2 months of follow up.

You can work at your own pace and if you need me, I’m here to answer questions, share feedback and even schedule a Facetime with you as you shop.

Are you ready to transform your tricky, problem room into a functional and comfortable space you’ll love?

Look, I know that making over a room isn’t rocket science.

But…

Small, tricky, awkward, or challenging rooms simply need more thought and consideration. Full stop.

You’re tired of your space not being comfortable and functional.

You need space to entertain
durable furniture, lighting, and wall color.
You want multi-function at a reasonable price point.

You’re over the fact that your room doesn’t feel pulled together.

You want a cohesive look that’s both coordinated and beautiful.
A room that uses some of the things you already have combined with new pieces that bring in the wow factor!

You’re looking to shorten the time from start to finish.

You want a clear step-by-step process where you can see how it will look before buying a single piece.

That’s why you’re here…

You’ve invested REAL hours seeking inspiration to get a handle on your tricky space, because you know it’s possible… You bet it is!

You don’t have to go it alone

You never want to see that highlighted “final sale” staring back at you when you realize the item you loved in the store won’t fit at home.

Instead:

I want you to experience feeling joy and pride when you finish making over your challenging rooms.

I want you to come home from your busy days to a home that replenishes you, because that’s what a busy pro or parent with lots of commitments needs, you know?

How E Design Works

Choose Your E Design Plan

My e design plans allow you to choose help with one thing, a few finishing touches or a full room design depending on your needs and budget.

Tell Me About Your Space

After you buy your plan, I’ll send a questionnaire or web chat link so you can let me know about your goals and style preferences for your space.

Show Me Your Room

You’ll measure and take pictures of your room and any furniture you’re keeping and send them to me. The easy instructions for doing this is sent at checkout.

E Design Created

I’ll create and email you an organized and curated plan with all the instructions you need to complete your design, step by step. It’s fun and easy!

“What I appreciate most was all your help, Michael. You are such an asset. Thank you for listening to me and for keeping the entire process pressure free. You are so helpful and honest and that is why I will come back to work with you again. I love everything”

— Ginna G.

What You Get

Mood Board

This is the inspiration for your room. It’s all the materials I’ve sourced like furnishings, accent pieces and accessories. It shows you how colors, fabrics, finishes and textures go together. *Depending on the plan you choose, you’ll receive 1 or 2 mood boards.

Shopping List

I’ll provide a shopping list with links so you can purchase any of the items I source right from your plan. I’ll also provide alternative products available in stores near you if you prefer shopping in person. Includes: Furniture, Accents and Accessories.

Written Installation Instructions

You’ll get detailed instructions for how to install your plan exactly how it’s presented.

Floor Plan

This is a scale model of your space. It will show you where to put your furniture and how it will fit. The placement is carefully considered, and I make sure it’s both functional and beautiful. *Depending on the plan you choose, you’ll receive 1 or 2 floor plans.

Room Renderings

Pictures of your plan from different angles showing 3D representations of the room to help you visualize the placement of furniture, accent pieces and accessories. *Depending on your plan, you’ll receive 2 to 4 room view renderings.

Video Installation Instructions

I also include a full video of the final e design where I talk through the entire process and give more insights.

“I can’t wait to get the new furniture so I can complete the room. I will send pictures once done! Thank you again and I look forward to sharing your information with my family and friends. Please let me know how I can leave a review.”

— Maria S.

Choose Your Plan

I’m starting from scratch and I need help with everything.

A complete room design, top to bottom, including a floor plan, furniture, accessories and full installation instructions with support.

I’m looking for finishing touches for my room.

This is about bringing it all together. I’ll help you choose everything to enhance your space: Furniture, accents, artwork, accessories.

I’m looking for help choosing my paint color.

There’s so many options for colors and narrowing that perfect shade of white can be tough. I will find the right color that works with your furniture, woods and lighting.

I need help arranging my room, so my layout works best.

A beautiful and functional layout is important, especially for small rooms. My floor plans enhance the characteristics of your room while also providing style and comfort.

I need advice on how to start or finish a certain project.

Need help deciding on a paint color, where to put the sofa, what size area rug to get, something else? You can book my time by the hour.

I’d like help hanging my wall decor, so it looks great!

I’ll help you determine the placement of wall décor and source new décor if you needed. Great for gallery walls, large art, mirrors, and other wall decor.

“Thank you for all your advice. You nailed it. The little we’ve done since your initial consult has helped this place feel more like home. We really appreciate your help!”

— Jerod M.

Reasons You’ll Want to Work With Me

I’m a space planning expert and that means I can design your room even if it’s narrow or has a tricky layout with lots of challenges. I’ve lived in small and awkward spaces for most of my life and I understand the struggle! I’ll show you how to best utilize the space you have you’ll swear you have a new house!
I have over 10 years of custom furniture design experience, so I know how stuff is made, what’s good , what’s not, and where to find the good stuff.
Your home is unique to you. There’s no one fits all scenario here. That means, unlike certain companies who offer a “designer” cattle call service – where you’re matched up like online dating - hoping for the best; it’s not about volume with me. It’s about the quality of your project and offering you a fully custom, uniquely YOU experience.
Best of all, my e design plans are easy! I show you what to do step by step. I offer online and in store shopping experiences , video installation instructions for exactly HOW to install your plan. You get 1 Year of post design support as you, do-it-yourself on your schedule and budget. And, I don’t charge extra for any of it!
I became a Certified Interior Decorator in 2008, a Certified Interior Environment Coach in 2010 and I got my custom furniture design certification in 2011, so I know how to recommend products that will fit your lifestyle best and how they will perform over time. Rest assured, I wouldn’t ever tell you to get something I wouldn’t have in my own home. I promise that!

More about me? Thought you’d never ask…

I’m 60% Nate Berkus, 40% Jeremiah Brent, and 10% Joanna Gaines. I’ve got a devilish sense of humor. I’m loyal, creative and tech savvy. I love ‘80’s anything, old movies and loud music!
I’m completely obsessed with my dog, Marqui. She’s a spitfire (seen here sleeping, probably after terrorizing my house). She’s half pug and half French bulldog, AKA “Frug”. She rules the house and I’m just her manservant.
As a kid in the late 80’s and early 90’s, I couldn’t wait for Saturday because I would watch The Christopher Lowell Show on Discovery Channel. Remember him? If not, he was a pre-HGTV design show guru. He was hilarious, dressing up in costumes and decorating all kinds of rooms. He is why I love this trade and is the inspiration for the system I use to help people.
I am a huge music fan. I love going to concerts and fan boy-ing out on my favorite bands. Love Alternative rock! (I’m also lowkey obsessed with Taylor Swift and Harry Styles. There I said it!) You can usually find me scream singing in my car, sporting a pair of beat-up Chucks, on the way to some random rock show.
Not-so-guilty pleasures include: Most all Netflix shows, Stranger Things, Grace and Frankie, Russian Doll. If it’s weird or funny, I’ll watch it. I’m way into YouTube: mostly DIY content because I love seeing creative people doing brilliant things: upcycles and thrift flips are some of my favorite content. And, I love any Saturday Night Live clips because the world needs more cowbell – always! And, because Bowen Yang, Kate McKinnon, and Kenan Thompson are national treasures!
I'm obsessed with meditating, essential oils, natural crystals and air plants (how do they live without dirt??!)
I love to read “Self Enrichment” authors, a.k.a. self help. You can do anything you set your mind to, right?
I practice the Law of Attraction and I firmly believe that thoughts become things.

“Our furniture was delivered today - it is awesome! Thanks again for your excellent service and guidance. I look forward to working with you again on our next project - the dining room”

— Bill M.