LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference – April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Other Shows:

AWDB: 1069: Live from KBIS 2025: Richard Anuszkiewicz on Elevating Design, Brand Collaborations & Crafting a Successful Career

03-25-202503-25-2025

1073: On Air Strategy Session: Jessie Surber – Embrace Your Small Market to Set Up Long-Term Success

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1073: On Air Strategy Session: Jessie Surber – Embrace Your Small Market to Set Up Long-Term Success

Today With Jessie Surber:

In this On-Air Strategy Session, I work with Jessie Surber of Jessie Surber Design to tackle the challenge of growing a design business in a small town. Based in Greenville, Ohio (population 12,000), Jessie is passionate about British-inspired interiors but struggles with converting website visitors into inquiries. I provide strategic guidance on whether to fully embrace her niche now or take a more gradual approach while building her client base, particularly considering her young family. This episode offers valuable insights for designers in smaller markets, those balancing business growth with family responsibilities, and anyone questioning how much to niche down in the early stages of business.

LuAnn Nigara and Jessie Surber’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Be prepared to be lucky.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Jessie Surber

Jessie Surber is the founder and principal designer of Jessie Surber Design, a full-service interior design firm with a passion for British-inspired interiors. Driven by her love of art and craftsmanship, she helps clients create warm and personal homes designed for the way they live.

With a background in home renovations and construction, Jessie has a keen eye for detail and a practical approach to transforming spaces. She has worked on full-scale renovations, home additions, and custom design projects, collaborating closely with contractors and artisans to bring her client’s visions to life.

When she’s not designing, Jessie loves exploring art galleries, gardening, and spending time with her three children—which fuels her creativity.

Connect with Jessie Surber

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference – April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

New blog: Why Niching Your Business is the Smartest Move You’ll Ever Make

On Air Strategy Sessions with LuAnn

Other Shows:

316: Wendy Woloshchuk: FaceBook: The Primary Marketing Tool for Her Interior Design Business

527: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now? Wendy Woloshchuk: Grow Your Business Through Action

840: Jean Stoffer: Work in Harmony Through Every Season of Life

03-21-202503-24-2025

1072: Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: Alkemis Paint is Disrupting the Industry with Sustainable Luxury

1072 Maya Crowne And Price Latimer Alkemis Paint Is Disrupting The Industry With Sustainable Luxury Thumbnail.png

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1072: Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: Alkemis Paint is Disrupting the Industry with Sustainable Luxury

Today With Maya Crowne & Price Latimer:

In today’s episode, I sit down with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer, the visionary co-founders of Alkemis Paint. What started as a personal search for a healthier alternative to conventional paint turned into a groundbreaking company redefining the industry with plastic-free, plant-based, high-performance paint.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why most conventional paints contain plastic—and how that impacts indoor air quality and the environment

How Maya and Price turned a personal frustration into a thriving business that challenges industry norms

The power of educating your clients about healthier, smarter alternatives

Actionable strategies for building a brand that aligns with your values

How to differentiate your business by identifying gaps in the market

LuAnn Nigara, Maya Crowne & Price Latimers Ah-Ha Moments:

“We’ve been painting our walls with plastic for decades—without questioning it. Once we realized that, we knew there had to be a better way.” – Maya Crowne

“If we care about clean beauty, organic food, and air purifiers, why aren’t we thinking about the air we breathe inside our own homes?” – Price Latimer

“Innovation starts with frustration. I couldn’t paint my tiny apartment without suffocating—so I started asking why paint has to be this way in the first place.” – Maya Crowne

More About Maya Crowne & Price Latimer

Maya Crowne, CEO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint

After a successful corporate career, I felt the desire to return to my creative roots and focus on my love of color by creating a paint company that is truly all-natural, non-toxic and sustainable, with the addition of functional wellness benefits.

Price Latimer, CCO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint

Humans currently spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed spaces. Whether in residential or public settings, we are invariably surrounded by paint products almost every minute of the day and yet are often oblivious to their deleterious aspects. Alkemis Paint was founded because we can—and we must—do better for ourselves and for the planet. It is well-established that colors, nature, and aesthetics can positively influence our mood.

Connect with Maya Crowne & Price Latimer

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference – April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Other Shows:

AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development

AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

03-18-202503-24-2025

1071: Brenda Danso: How Interior Designers Can Protect Their Mental Health & Avoid Burnout

1071 Brenda Danso How Interior Designers Can Protect Their Mental Health And Avoid Burnout Thumbnail.png

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1071: Brenda Danso: How Interior Designers Can Protect Their Mental Health & Avoid Burnout

Today With Brenda Danso:

As an interior designer, you do more than create beautiful spaces—you guide clients through major life transitions, juggle countless responsibilities, and often take on an emotional load that goes far beyond design. But how do you protect your own well-being in the process?

In this episode, Brenda Danso, founder of BD Interior Design and mental health expert, shares powerful insights on recognizing burnout, managing stress, and creating environments that promote emotional well-being—for both yourself and your clients. Learn how to set boundaries, navigate emotionally charged client interactions, and design a business that truly supports your mental health.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you’re constantly running on empty, this conversation is for you. Tune in now and take the first step toward a healthier, more sustainable design business.

LuAnn Nigara and Brenda Danso’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Burnout doesn’t always show up as exhaustion. Sometimes it looks like resentment—toward your work, your clients, or even yourself for taking on too much.” – Brenda Danso

“Your business should fit into your life, not the other way around. If it doesn’t, you have to step back and ask—what needs to change?” – Brenda Danso

“Success isn’t just about how much money you make—it’s about how you feel while making it. If you’re constantly drained and stressed, is that really the business you want?” – LuAnn Nigara

“Sometimes we’re so busy pushing forward that we don’t realize we’re running on empty. Taking a pause isn’t failure—it’s what allows you to keep going.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Brenda Danso

Brenda Danso, the visionary behind BD Interior Design, brings a unique perspective that intertwines mental health and design. Originally from California, she seamlessly transitioned from a career in mental health therapy to pursuing her true passion for design. Brenda is widely acclaimed for her approachable nature, making her clients feel comfortable and understood throughout the design process.

In addition to her design expertise, Brenda has emerged as a trusted figure in the design world. She frequently shares her insights and knowledge as a recognized expert on Cityline TV, where she delves into the intersection of design, well-being, and mental health. With her deep understanding of branding and mental health, Brenda has achieved remarkable success, becoming a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs alike.

Connect with Brenda Danso

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference – April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Other Shows:

AWDB #974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business

AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business

AWDB #940: Christine Vroom: An Honest Conversation about Mental Health and the Interior Design Industry

03-14-202503-24-2025

1070: Sponsored Show: Peter and Alex Spalding: Daniel House Club: Simplifying Furniture Acquisition

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1070: Sponsored Show: Peter and Alex Spalding: Daniel House Club: Simplifying Furniture Acquisition

Today With Peter and Alex Spalding:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Peter and Alex Spalding, founders of Daniel House Club.

Daniel House Club is a designer trade program that provides access to a vast network of vendors, offering countless product options, concierge services, and tools to simplify procurement, shipping, and admin.

Peter and Alex are committed to keeping their program simple and supportive for designers—and they’ve built that goal into every step of their process.

Today, they’re here to share their story and tell us how Daniel House Club can help you streamline furniture acquisition and remove headaches and hassle from your projects.

LuAnn Nigara, Peter and Alex Spalding’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Let’s be real, you’re a designer, you should be able to design a home, not design a logistics spreadsheet.” -LuAnn

“What I do like about this is it has given me the ability to be profitable working at a different range. I can do a $300,000 living room for one client and still help someone furnish their home for $25,000 without losing my shirt.” -Peter

“We look for simple, not easy. Our goal is to make life easier for designers, even if it means things are more complicated for us on the back end.” -Alex

More About Peter and Alex Spalding

We started out like many of you—running a design firm, juggling countless projects, and chasing slim margins. As we scaled, we noticed something surprising: the part of the business that kept our doors open wasn’t our design services—it was furniture sales.

That realization changed everything.

We decided to rethink the way interior designers source and sell furniture. What if we could simplify it? What if we could make it more profitable? What if we could create a platform that frees designers to focus on their craft instead of chasing vendors and managing endless logistics?

That’s exactly what Daniel House Club is today. We’ve streamlined the process of acquiring and reselling furniture so you can spend less time on admin and more time doing what you do best.

Whether you’re working on a single room or a full-scale project, our tools and resources are designed to make your business not only run smoother—but thrive.

We’re here to make your work easier, your profits stronger, and your clients happier.

Connect with Peter and Alex Spalding

03-11-2025

1069: Live from KBIS 2025: Richard Anuszkiewicz on Elevating Design, Brand Collaborations & Crafting a Successful Career

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1069: Live from KBIS 2025: Richard Anuszkiewicz on Elevating Design, Brand Collaborations & Crafting a Successful Career

Today With Richard Anuszkiewicz:

Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today, we’re diving into the world of high-end kitchen and bath design with the incredibly talented Richard Anuszkiewicz. As an award-winning designer and industry thought leader, Richard has built a name for himself through his innovative approach, brand collaborations, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

In this episode, we uncover the key ingredients that set luxury design apart and explore how you can apply these principles to your own business. You’ll learn:

The essential elements that define true luxury in design.
How strategic brand partnerships can expand your influence and opportunities.
The mindset shifts needed to position yourself at the top of your niche.

Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting to carve out your space in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you elevate your business.

LuAnn Nigara and Richard Anuszkiewicz’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Luxury isn’t just about beautiful products—it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience.” – Richard Anuszkiewicz

“The details are what define high-end design. From materials to functionality, every element must be intentional.” – Richard Anuszkiewicz

“Excellence in design is about constantly pushing boundaries, staying curious, and never settling for average.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Richard Anuszkiewicz

Highlighted as a top industry innovator by Kitchen & Bath Design News for creative talents and business acumen, Richard T. Anuszkiewicz is a recognized North American kitchen and bath design authority. A 2019 NKBA Insider, 2018 Coverings Emerging Leader, 2017 Modenus Top 10 Design Influencer and Washingtonian Style Setter, Richard graduated from Virginia Tech NKBA accredited Residential Design program and is an alumnus of the NKBA Top 30 Under 30 program in 2013.

Anuszkiewicz is a respected keynote speaker presenting nationally at premier industry events including: Dwell on Design Los Angeles, Design Chicago, Wanted Design New York, DDA Toronto, KBIS Las Vegas and Orlando. Richard has been highlighted in numerous high-profile publications, such as Vanity Fair, Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, The Washington Post, The Editor At Large, Robb Report, HGTV and more. He enjoys staying up to date with trends and technologies and most recently he was abroad at Salone del Mobile in Milan, Living Kitchen in Cologne and The London Design Festival.

Connect with Richard Anuszkiewicz

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by:

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Join AjMadison Pro today!

LuAnn University Intensives – Coming up mid-March!

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference – April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

03-07-202503-24-2025

1068: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How “Sleeping in Your Guest Room” Can Make You RICH

1068 Power Talk Friday Sandra Funk The Interior Design Standard The Client Experience Revolution Thumbnail.png

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0:57:04

1068: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How “Sleeping in Your Guest Room” Can Make You RICH

Today With Sandra Funk:

Today with Sandra Funk, we explore the transformative power of client experience in building a thriving interior design business. Sandra shares her pivotal “dark night of the soul” moment when three clients fired her in one day, and how this crisis became the catalyst for completely reimagining her approach to client relationships.

We dive into her philosophy of viewing client partnerships as “mini marriages” that require clear communication, boundaries, and emotional understanding throughout the design journey. Sandra reveals the specific strategies that have made House of Funk so successful, from surprise and delight moments to avoiding nickel-and-diming clients for small changes.

As The Interior Design Standard celebrates five years and 1,000 members, Sandra also shares exciting news about evolving her coaching program into a more intentional, curated community for serious designers who want to level up their businesses.

LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“I started looking at it from the client’s point of view. How will it land for them instead of what works for me?” – Sandra Funk

More About Sandra Funk

Sandra Funk is the founder and CEO of the boutique interior design firm, House of Funk. After 20 years as a luxury designer, Sandra is now a business strategist deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm.

Connect with Sandra Funk

Interior Design Standard

Interior Design Standard Sneak Peek

How to Start an Interior Design Business

Interior Design Pricing

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

#520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here!

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Other Shows:

#660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

#753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business

#801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation

#845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating

#1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

03-04-202503-24-2025

1067: Run Your Race: Ashley Ross, Muse Noir Interiors

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1:33:23

1067: Run Your Race: Ashley Ross, Muse Noir Interiors

Today With Ashley Ross:

In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with Ashley Ross, the self-taught designer and founder of Muse Noire, to discuss her journey of building a business that defies traditional expectations. Ashley shares how she confidently navigated her second career, blending creativity with strategy to create a design firm that thrives on relationships, bold risks, and staying true to her vision.

You’ll learn how to:

Build a business with confidence, embracing your unique journey.
Focus on the importance of relationships and trust in growing a business.
Take bold, aligned risks to create meaningful growth and success.

Whether you’re a new designer or looking to revamp your approach to business, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you confidently step into your full potential.

LuAnn Nigara and Ashley Ross’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Sometimes when people are having their second act, they fumble around in the beginning, not realizing that they have transferable skills.” — Ashley Ross

“You can’t be successful until you have defined what success means to you.” — LuAnn Nigara

“Business is about relationships. It’s about how you show up for your clients, how you connect, and how you build trust.” — Ashley Ross

“Take your transferable skills and transfer them immediately. Don’t waste time.” — Ashley Ross

More About Ashley Ross

Muse Noire is a full service design firm with offices in both North Carolina and Texas, yet serving clients throughout the US. We are dedicated to curating contemporary global homes that celebrate culture. Led by founder and principal designer, Ashley Ross, the firm journeys clients to the intersection of their own cultural heritage and Muse Noire’s palatable script of interior wellness. Established in 2019, Muse Noire was born out of Ashley’s desire to create spaces that embrace people of color and make them feel whole when they return home. Recognizing the sacrifices individuals make to fit societal norms, Ashley believes in immersing high-performing BIPOC executives in a timeless and tactile environment where they can truly be seen and heard.

Connect with Ashley Ross

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by:

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University Intensives – Coming up mid-March!

Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference – April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Other Shows:

AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You!

AWDB #1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire

02-28-202503-24-2025

1066: On Air Strategy Session: Abby Fitzgerald: Planning Your Design Business for Year-Round Success

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1066: On Air Strategy Session: Abby Fitzgerald: Planning Your Design Business for Year-Round Success

Today With Abby Fitzgerald:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today’s on-air coaching session, I’m helping my guest, Abby Fitzgerald of Fitz Haus Interior Design, master the seasonal ebbs and flows of her business–a challenge that every designer faces but few plan for effectively.

Today, we’re diving deep into creating a strategic roadmap for her year, tackling everything from revenue planning across quarters to building those crucial financial reserves. After years of managing WindowWorks through seasonal cycles, I’m sharing exactly how to prepare for slower months while maximizing the busy ones.

If you’ve ever worried about those predictable slow seasons or wondered how to structure your year for consistent success, this episode is your blueprint for action.

LuAnn Nigara and Abby Fitzgerald’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“The difference between success and failure with a proven idea isn’t about being first – it’s about being the one who actually takes action. Success goes to the person who hears the idea and does something with it.” – LuAnn Nigara

“In business, don’t waste time deciding what others are doing. Stay in your lane, build your business with respect, maintain the right cadence, and operate from a genuine place. Don’t be a pain in the butt – just do your work authentically.” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Abby Fitzgerald

Fitz Haus is a full-service interior design studio dedicated to bringing beauty, style, and functionality into your home serving clients in Central Pennsylvania.

Fitz Haus Interior Design was founded by me, Abby Fitzgerald, with the intention of creating beautiful spaces while providing a first-class customer experience. I have always had a love for design and had the opportunity to design and build my family home, which sparked my creativity and allowed me to showcase my design skills. I have a unique background in marketing, sales and public relations. I spent years in the corporate world before taking the leap to open my own business and pursue my true passion.

My husband Kerry and I reside in the small town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania with our three children Ryann, Liam and Ava Grae. When we’re not travelling or running to and from soccer games we love spending time at home together.

Connect with Abby Fitzgerald

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit – June 23rd and 24th!

LuAnn University Intensives – Coming up mid-March!

Other Shows:

AWDB #453: Carolyn Flannery: Impact Your Pipeline With This One Strategy

AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design

AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

02-25-202503-24-2025

1065: Eryn Oruncak: Harnessing Neuroaesthetics: Understanding the Power of Space

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1:14:13

1065: Eryn Oruncak: Harnessing Neuroaesthetics: Understanding the Power of Space

Today With Eryn Oruncak:

Meet Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art. As one of the first designers to achieve SIDC certification in neuroaesthetics, Eryn is leading the way in showing how this cutting-edge science can transform both our industry and our clients’ lives.

In this episode, Eryn breaks down how neuroaesthetics – the science of how our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system – can help designers articulate their value and create more impactful spaces. She shares powerful insights about how our brains process environments, why custom pieces matter on a neurological level, and how understanding these principles can help you win client trust and defend your design decisions.

LuAnn Nigara and Eryn Oruncak’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Neuroaesthetics is the way our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system.” – Eryn

“Neuroesthetics marries your environment to your person.” – Eryn

“Lighting is a huge element in a room. Light is life…Light makes you pay attention.” – Eryn

“You don’t have to convince 10 people of this. You don’t even have to convince anybody. You just have to let the people know who are already thinking this way, already open to it, that you’re the answer.” – LuAnn

More About Eryn Oruncak

Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art, is known for her presentation of fine art paintings and evocative spaces. Eryn believes that the home is the foundation for your life, your work, and your family. One of the first in the design industry to achieve the SIDC Certification, Oruncak applies neuroaesthetic and biophilic principles to her well-crafted rooms and original artwork.

The customized residences and offices she designs for her clients result in their enhanced performance and optimized health. As a go-to expert, Oruncak is a global speaker on the subject of neuroaesthetics, the science of how our environment and art affect our brain and nervous system, and is an interior design advisor to trade associations on this relatively new discipline. Her work and expertise have been featured in several publications and media outlets around the world.

Connect with Eryn Oruncak

Blog

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara