Q: Describe your range of services.
A: We provide pre-staging needs as well as partial and full staging services. As with many properties, painting, handyman work, floor refinishing, carpeting, etc. are needed in order to put the property’s best foot forward. We also appreciate the economic situation of the seller and we’re able to identify areas that need pre-staging improvement versus ways we can improve with staging.
Our staging is focused on treating each property as a custom project, while keeping our potential buyers in mind. We encourage collaboration with our agents to make certain that we are achieving the appropriate aesthetic for our target market.
Q: How did you get into interior design and staging?
A: I spent 8 years in finance working for Fisher Investments as the Senior VP for Client Service Relations. Although I loved my role in this fast growing company, I also felt a strong need to follow my passion in interior design. I decided to leave Fisher Investments in 2002 and pursue a degree in Interior Design at the Art Institute of Seattle. After completing my design degree in Residential Interiors, I worked for Amato Johnson Design and ultimately started Mise en place Interiors & Staging in 2005. We have numerous interior design projects on our portfolio, but it wasn’t until 2007 when one of my real estate friends asked me to “stage” her property. Staging was never mentioned in design school, so I was pleasantly intrigued. Since my first “staging gig”, I’ve been inspired to make every property unique in addition to making it very easy for our valued agents to market.
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: My personal home style reflects a very eclectic look; lots of large exotic plants, contemporary pieces, mid-century, vintage….as I’m sitting at my desk writing this, it’s apparent that I’m all over the board. Most importantly, it’s comfortable and inviting. For our clients, my style is their style. It’s always rewarding to understand what others love and translate that into interior design & decor. Inspiration is key.
Q: Who or what inspires you?
A: I’m inspired by Ralph Lauren. Despite my eclectic personal style, I’m drawn towards his classic and timeless looks in interior design & decor, fashion design, and car enthusiasm.
Q: Name two or three treasured objects that you own.
A: My mother is half Hawaiian and my “Papa” played the ukulele at the Fairmont Tonga Room as his primary occupation. Out of all of the Hawaiian instruments and vintage clothing that we own, my favorite is his ukulele.
My boyfriend “fiancé” recently proposed to me on the Na Poli Coast at the Hanakapi’ai Falls. We have been together for 13 years and this was a very big surprise. I treasure this ring for the time we have been together and our future together.
Q: You’ve expanded your team recently. Describe what they do.
A: Team Mise en Place is the best. We support each other like family, but respect each other as colleagues.
Kathleen goes above and beyond in every aspect of the business. She is primarily responsible for marketing and operations and big picture development.
Kacee is both an amazing stager and designer. Her talent is always dashed with love and laughter. She has a vast understanding of all styles of design and a keen ability to interact with every client.
Kylea is disciplined and extremely well versed in design, staging, logistics, and management. She offers the best in both aesthetics and behind the scene planning.
Q: Describe one or two of your most memorable projects.
A: The pre-staging and staging management at 864 Francisco was a very rewarding challenge. Without sparing all the details, we had a very short time deadline, a very conservative budget and a home that had not been remodeled for over 40 years. Plus, it was the first time the four of us had worked together on one project with all of our valued vendors. It was truly a team effort that I am so proud.
Q: What are your hobbies? What do you do outside of work?
A: I LOVE to do jigsaw puzzles (usually during the holidays), logic problems & Sudoku (on vacation or airplanes), and play golf (when my back doesn’t hurt).
Although making dinner doesn’t seem like a hobby, I really enjoy preparing a nice dinner at home. I enjoy the whole process; making a list, shopping, the prep work “Mise en place”, strategically making certain everything is done on time, and the ultimate satisfaction of filling my appetite.
Now you know the inspiration for the business name….
Q: What changes are planned for the coming year?
A: We are converting to a new software system, which will make it far more efficient for our agents and clients to communicate with us. In addition, we are embarking on a gift certificate program as a way to say “thank you” for referrals and continued business. Stay tuned for more details….
We are also aiming to expand the team….will it be someone whose name starts with a “K”?
