Meet Candy Scott: Founder & Principal Designer
how long have you been in business?
I started a business right out of college in 2001, so I’ve been in business for 17 years. I took it to the next level four and half years ago.
took it to the next level?
At first, I was a freelance designer taking on independent projects in school. Then, I worked for another designer. The recession came, and I went out on my own again. I decided that I wanted to build a firm and didn’t want to be a solo designer. I wanted a staff and a team—it’s a totally different ballgame.
totally different ballgame?
Training and educating my staff has been the biggest area of growth and development for me.
when did you know that you wanted to start your own business?
I’ve always had an independent streak and wanted to do things my way.
why design?
I have a passion for aesthetics and beauty, and I recognize how it affects my mood. For me, material objects cause a visceral response. Well-designed spaces inspire and motivate me.
what’s your favorite part of the interior design process?
Installation is the absolute best part of the project—bringing it all together! When everything arrives and the pieces fall into place.
how do you think that your process is different from other designers?
Five years ago, it wouldn’t have been any different. I would have liked certain things and brought it together, and it would have been a job well done.
Now, it’s not about what I like. It’s about what the client likes. My client-focused relationship skills are what differentiate me from the pack. There are designers who get the game, but it’s about making clients feel inspired—it directly involves their lives. It’s not about keeping up with the Joneses and having a beautiful home. It’s more important to ask how the design could be satisfying and sustaining for the client, and offering exceptional customer service in the process.
what is the biggest lesson that owning your own business has taught you?
I can’t control it all. Let go and trust. I’m constantly learning this moment by moment every day.
who are your favorite designers ?
My favorite designer is Mother Nature. I’m always inspired by nature. It’s so cliché, but true!
where do you find inspiration?
Travel! When I get out of my bubble and then return, my creativity is amplified in my daily life.
favorite place to visit?
My top travel destinations are Bali, London, and Paris.
I love the architecture, the decorations, and how ornate things are in Europe. The infusion of art and culture is more prevalent in other parts of the world than in the US.
I soak it all up! I’m very eclectic by nature—I love a lot of things. One of the most difficult things as a designer to do well is eclectic. It can be a hodgepodge that doesn’t make sense, so it’s important to balance eclectic elements.
I’m inspired by food, because it can be so beautiful. It’s an art! I love going to restaurants, trying new venues and cuisines. I’m a huge fan of Top Chef!
I’m also inspired by people’s stories. Epic stories. Triumphs. Struggle and growth. Perseverance is inspiring to me.
minimalist or maximalist?
Maximalist usually, but I’m all about keeping it simple.
modern, traditional, or transitional?
Transitional.
favorite colors?
Taupe as an overall, but some of my favorite accents are emerald, royal blue, and hot pink.
favorite item in your closet?
A beautiful wool sweater with fur sleeves. It’s like a cape—and so versatile!
what’s an artifact in your home that’s meaningful to you or tells a story?
My purpose is to learn and grow. I’m different every year. A meaningful symbol for me is a butterfly. I have them all over my home and office.
About a decade ago, I was in a really challenging situation. I had a decision to make.
I asked myself, “What am I going to do here? Am I going to make lemonade out of lemons?”
I knew it would be a hard road, but I took the leap.
Around that time, someone asked me, “What is one thing you can think of that reminds you you’re on the right track?”
I thought for a second, and a butterfly floated past at that moment. Ever since then, I’ve used them as a symbol. Now, I surround myself with them.