Susan Newman Colin Miller/Stauss Peyton

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Linda K. Kusmer, Allied Member ASID, founded Total Interior Designs, Inc. in 1976 and is definite about the need for her clients’ homes to reflect their own style and personality.

Q: How does your design philosophy create inviting spaces?

A: I create pleasurable surroundings for people with their own personalities in mind. I recommend clients use resources, including design magazines, to look for color schemes, fabric patterns and furniture styles that are interesting to them, and in turn, inspire me to establish a design plan that meets the needs of the client on many levels.

Q: It sounds like for you, interior design goes way beyond color and Feng Shui.

A: It does. Decorating goes to the heart of the people occupying the space. I’ve helped create beautiful spaces for clients working through life transitions – helping them at a crossroads, where their lives and home are changing. For many clients it is a time to move forward.

Q: How would you inject a client’s unique personality into a series of rooms?

A: I am happy to walk (and talk) them through the spaces with samples of actual materials we’ll use. And I listen carefully to what clients want. Many people are opting for function and comfort – spaces have to work for everyday living. I work to blend a client’s family treasures, antiques mixed with contemporary furnishings, and personal color preferences.

Designer Sketch: LINDA KUSMER
BORN: San Francisco, CA
GO-WITH-ANYTHING FABRIC: Silk – there are so many beautiful silks, such as Oriental silk with saturated colors.
WHAT CLIENTS SHOULD CONSIDER: Accessories and artwork to complete a room.
THE BEST PART OF A DESIGN PROJECT: For me, it’s art.