Today we’d like to introduce you to Annie Downing.
Hi Annie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I attended Trinity University, a liberal arts school in San Antonio. Despite access to creative programming, I followed a “practical” path, studying Business and Spanish. That led me to a post-grad career in Washington, DC where I worked in the Clinton White House, did a campaign stint in 2000 for Gore/Lieberman, and spent the following 8 years at ABC News. Through the long hours and the fast-paced lifestyle, I needed a creative outlet to keep me going. I enrolled in art classes whenever I could: watercolor, still life, ceramics, photography, and interior design. In DC, I designed my own home twice and adored the process. Those early design classes underlined my connection to the design process, it just clicked.
When I moved to Austin in 2006, I took a few job interviews in the political sector but ultimately closed that chapter of my life. I began offering myself to friends and acquaintances, anyone who needed help reupholstering a sofa, finding a wallpaper installer, or choosing the perfect paint color for their home. I started small and just kept going. The work snowballed. I soaked up those early experiences, learning from them and growing a business that now works on large-scale, collaborative projects. I’m so proud of the professional environment that has unfolded through this process. I have a stellar team, and a studio where people are valued and encouraged to grow professionally and personally.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nope! More like a winding path.
All these years later, I’m still learning something new every day.
Having never worked for a design firm, I had to learn to run my business on the fly, cultivating ADI’s internal processes through trial and error.
One of the greatest challenges I faced was understanding my financials. I went through three bookkeepers before finding one that understood the nuances of our industry. Today, I don’t make any investments (in people, space, marketing) without consulting my financial projections first.
Over time, I’ve also learned that you are only as good as your team. Surround yourself with people that complement your weaknesses and you’ll be unstoppable.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
ADI is a full-service interior design studio specializing in residential remodeling and new construction. I prefer to sign onto a project early on, collaborating with the builder and architect to incorporate fun, unique details. I adore hard finishes, always opting for living materials that will patina over time.
When it comes to wall treatments and soft finishes, I’m all about playful details, saturated color, and layered prints. My ability to strike a balance between those elements is what makes my design language unique.
My team of designers are pros, it’s a delight to work alongside such talented people who not only align with my vision but contribute to it. My firm is also known for a strong aptitude for construction administration. We’re perfectionists, sometimes to a fault, making for very thorough project managers.
I find that the more I create the more I want to create. Over the past few months, I’ve been developing my own line of wallpaper and tile. It’s a long process and a learning curve, but it is so fulfilling.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Take every opportunity and learn from it. You are what you know, so soak it all in. Be vigilant and never be afraid to ask questions.
When you’re working with a client, know that they hired you because you’re the expert. Own that. Don’t be afraid to “toot your own horn.” I still struggle with this but speak up for yourself!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://anniedowning.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anniedowninginteriors/
Image Credits
Designer Annie Downing Interiors Photographer Lindsay Brown Stylist Amy Bodle
