Using Problem Solving to Achieve Design Solutions – #TheNewNautical

Jan 26, 2021 | Uncategorized

As Interior Design Strategists we look beyond the aesthetics of a space to ensure that our design solutions are just that … SOLUTIONS to problems that our clients are experiencing in their built environment.

We utilize Design Thinking strategy which shares so many similarities to that of a Scientific Method. This way we can be assured that we are proposing the best solution possible.

Our client #TheNewNautical loved the gorgeous views of the lake from their Master Suite but an unsightly bump-out on the floor was preventing them from fully enjoying the space. During a recent renovation, the builders accommodated the headroom for the staircase leading into the second floor by adding a slanted 4’ by 4’ obstruction in the master bedroom seen below.

Additional pain points included the layout of the space which limited the spatial layout. One wall contained gorgeous floor-to-ceiling windows, another was a full wall of closet doors, while the third and fourth wall shared the problem of the obstruction from the stairs.

Finally, like many couples, our clients found themselves fighting over a limited amount of storage space.

IDENTIFY PROBLEM:
Unsightly Obstruction
Difficult Spatial Layout
Limited Storage

HYPOTHESIS:
If we create a custom built-in then we will be able to encapsulate the obstruction while providing additional storage space.

TEST:
During the Co-Create phase, we utilized 3D renderings to help our clients feel confident as they moved forward with our proposed design.
They originally had placed their bed facing the wall of windows so that they could enjoy the views of the lake outside that they loved so much. When we rotated the bed to accommodate the proposed built-ins they were worried that they would lose the connection to the outdoors. To solve this problem we infused the space with colors and materials that blurred the lines of the outdoors and indoors – bringing the lake life vibes inside.

Stay tuned for updates on the blog to see our solution – a custom built-in around the bed that conceals the obstruction, provides more storage AND brings the vibes of the lake like that they love so much inside. This is what we call the #NewNautical

What does “dopamine décor” mean to you?

Rachel: It’s the pieces that make you happy when you see them. An instant smile or giggle. For me, it’s unexpected whimsy and humor. In my house, I’ve got a brass fox head wearing sunglasses and a monkey-head planter with a gold tooth. They never get old. It’s about surrounding yourself shamelessly with things that make you happy. I can’t wait to bring pieces like this into my new home, Divinely Detroit, the historic church located in Indian Village.

How did you land on the name Moxie?

Rachel: At Concetti, our brand persona is “genuine moxie” which means kind, calm, loving, but bold in who you are. We’re always building our clients up to take that bold, courageous step. Moxie is the bold part. The “I don’t need permission” part. When you choose dopamine décor, you’re choosing to surround yourself with pieces others might not understand, but you love.

Who is Moxie for?

Rachel: It’s for anyone who’s been told they’re too much, too loud, too bold. It’s for the person who wants that little empowering piece in their day whether that’s a trucker hat, a beautiful candle, or funky lamp. It’s for people who want to surround themselves with pieces lovingly crafted and curated to give you a little dose of empowerment.

How do you stay creatively energized when building something from scratch?

Rachel: I’ve never subscribed to the idea that your life should follow a certain timeline. Since I was 16, I knew I wanted to be an interior designer. That’s 23 years of being dedicated to one decision, and it still feels good and in alignment.
When I create something new, it’s like a spark goes off. I listen to that inner knowing. I tell my team, “One step in front of the other.” It might be clumsy, but you’ve got to start moving.

What design rule do you love to break?

Rachel: Any of them. If I want to turn my dining room into a recording studio or a kids’ playroom, then I will, and you should feel empowered to, as well. The only rules worth following are the ones that make you feel good in your own space.

What advice would you give to creatives who feel “too much” for the design world?

Rachel: There’s no such thing. What you’ve been told is “too much” is your superpower. That’s what makes you different and magnetic. Stand in your power. Make decisions from alignment, not shame or guilt. Be unapologetically you because that’s when you really shine.

Favorite dopamine décor brands or artists?

Rachel: Regina Andrew (Detroit-based and stunning), Seletti (monkeys holding lightbulbs, peacock lamps), Noir (the hand chair!), Bold Monkey, Zoe Bios (customizable art), and Eric & Eloise (quirky brass animal heads). I make them weird with purple lights in my basement because it makes me laugh every time.

What do you hope people feel when they bring home a Moxie piece?

Rachel: I want them to feel excited and happy. I want unboxing to be an experience that exceeds expectations whether it’s something you wear and feel empowered in or something in your home or business that gives you that hit of joy every time you pass it.

What does success look like for Moxie?

Rachel: Moxie is more than numbers, it’s a movement. It’s about inclusivity, empowerment, and telling people they’re perfect exactly as they are.

One mindset shift that changed everything for you as a founder?

Rachel: Realizing that everything I need is already within me. I can surround myself with mentors and partners, but at the end of the day, I’m the only one living my truth.

Advice for creatives carving their own path?

Rachel: Persistence wins. Your journey is your own. Do the things that light you up and keep going. Pause to reflect on what’s working, what’s draining you, and what you can add back in to make you excited again. There’s no one else like you so own it.

Join the Moxie Movement by signing up for our newsletter and get the latest dopamine drops straight to your inbox.