Interior design is filled with riddles and challenges to overcome. They say a bolt of lightning never strikes twice on the same spot, and we can surely adapt that metaphor to interior design. Every project’s different from the previous one. Now let’s take that to a whole new level, which is designing kids’ spaces. In order for us to better understand the challenges of an interior designer who specializes in making the little ones feeling special, we spoke with Naomi Alon, founder and designer of Little Crown Interiors. Naomi’s creative modern bohemian interiors allow children to pursue their most creative thoughts while maintaining a stylish and calm environment.
From her vast experience to her planning process, Naomi told us a little bit of everything in her studio’s life in this exclusive interview. If you’re on the hunt for an experienced kids interior designer then well, the search is over. And you’ll see why below.
How did you decide to become a designer?
I was always an avid art enthusiast, so I decided to study studio art in college. After that, I narrowed my focus to interior design because I loved the idea of marrying form and function. I’m very sensitive to my environment, so it came naturally to me to design the space around me!
Was pursuing design always a priority for you?
As far back as I can remember, I was always making little vignettes in my room and decorating with art. It’s something I’ve always known I wanted to do, and once I went through all the schooling, I was excited that I would be able to make it a reality for myself.
What kind of projects do you do?
Little Crown Interiors is a specialized design studio that focuses solely on nursery and child spaces. I love working on these types of projects because they are typically more colorful and whimsical. I get to work with people during a very special time in their lives.
Which project type is your favourite?
I do everything from nursery up to teen spaces, but nurseries are always my favorite. It’s a completely clean slate and it’s really fun to be able to create a space from scratch for my client—helping them realize everything they’ve always wanted for their baby.
Do you have a signature style?
I want to create a space that works for each client, so sometimes my design style varies, but in general, I lean toward light and bright spaces with soft color accents and a bit of glam. I guess “modern bohemian” would be the closest phrase.
What are the biggest challenges that you usually have to face?
Because I work with children, I have to be very cognizant of safety. Sometimes I have to tell a client that something they want can’t or shouldn’t be done because of safety hazards. So it’s always a challenge to create a beautiful space that also will keep baby safe.
What was the project that you enjoyed the most working on?
One of my very early projects was a nursery for a client here in Orange County. Her entire house was white. White walls, white furniture, etc. But for the nursery, she went completely opposite and wanted an explosion of color. We ended up doing this amazing hot pink and silver wallpaper! It was clear she wanted that room to be fun for her child, even though she liked everything simple and white herself.
How is it like to work on kids’ spaces?
It’s a challenge, but so much fun. I love when I get to work with children as well. Sometimes they will sit in on design meetings and give me their opinion. I mean, I can’t exactly take a 4-year-old at her word, but I love getting their input!
How do you plan your projects?
Meticulously. I love planning and organizing, and spreadsheets are my best friend. Since I work on lots of projects at once, I need to make sure everything is in its place.
What sets Little Crown Interiors apart from the other design firms?
There really aren’t very many designers that just do nursery and child spaces. I know a handful in the entire country. I’ve designed over 200 spaces in my career, all of them for children. I have a lot of experience!
How is it like to work in L.A.?
Really fun. I’m based in the more suburban Orange County, but most of my clients are in L.A. Los Angeles as a whole appreciates good design, and there are so many resources available. My clients are all really open-minded and love to explore new ideas.
Do you partner with other ID/architects/firms?
I do sometimes lend my expertise to other designers and firms, yes. If a firm is working on a huge home project that includes a kid’s room, sometimes I will consult on that room since it requires a totally different skill set, including safety knowledge and furniture brands. I’m actually working with an architect right now in the building phase. I can look through plans and catch safety hazards or functional issues before they are built.
What would be your dream project? My own house! I’m so busy designing all day long that when it comes to my own home, I haven’t done a whole lot. I would love to give my house a design refresh!
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