Today we’d like to introduce you to Giselle Newman.
Hi Giselle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My Dad was an engineer and my Mother was an artist. The creative side won out as I went to school for interior design but then my dad was the one that spired me to go further into architectural with grad school. I have been in the field of architecture and interior design for over 35 years now, I love making money at my hobby. I love meeting people, designing different types of spaces and with my graduate studies I researched how spaces can relieve stress so environments can help you in the healing process and wellness of your overall being.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Oh my no, the road has not been smooth. I was discouraged to do architecture due it it was mostly men in the field 35 years ago. I have owned three business: the first one I was much to young, and knew nothing about running a business, I could bring in clients ,design for them but did not know the business end of employees, overhead ,etc. I had that one for 5 years. The second business I had was with two partners… I trusted them until I could no so I resigned as president after 10 years. Now the third business, I was self employed, slowly hired staff. We had 6 full time and another company wanted to purchase us. That did not work out so I am back to myself, Supportive Design. I have worked as a consult for a few firms but never really enjoyed them due to either they were being purchased by other larger firms and or they were really micro mangers or they did not truly see my talents of business development, client manger and mentorinf younger talents.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I believe my honesty and networking has kept me in the field of architecture and design so far. I would love to teach networking in a college program due to the industry is all on who you know or can get to know. I believe I learned this since I was a strong single mother of three daughters and had to survive . So I never left an event without 3- 5 business leads or contacts. Still to this day my goal is three (3) contacts that I will be able to meet with for prospective work. I also believe those repeat clients become friends and you get to grow together during their renovations or new construction projects.
My specialty over the years has led to designing healing environments (health and wellness) in which I use my research to incorporate into any environment. The spaces must show social support, provide sense of control and have positive distractions ; the three principals of the Theory of Supportive Design. Hence my company name Supportive Design.
Any big plans?
Yes big changes are moving from Tennessee to Florida. Florida is my home and since my clients are all over the southeast I can relocate and still be able to services them. Most of my staff are remote . The goal is in 10 years to actually retire and still keep my relationships with my favorite clients.
Pricing:
- smaller fees due to less overhead
- direct contact with owner
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.supportivedesign.com/
