Annie Traurig is an organizational expert and author with a unique approach to aesthetics and style, and an undaunted sense of humor and fun. She teaches clients how to simplify their lives by equipping them with the tools to clarify their priorities and create a space for luxury. This is more than just a career it is a passion that has been with her she was 10 years old [details below]. With her writing appearing in a broad range of prestigious publications, we’re honoured to bring you Annie Traurig’s Designer Insights.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
Clutter-free, simplified, prioritized. I like both the clean lines of modern design, and the history and intrigue of special vintage finds.
2) When starting a new design project, what is your creative process?
I listen for my clients to articulate their ideal vision for the space, how they hope it will look and function. Then I get to have fun planning and researching what I believe will be the most optimal organizational systems and overall space set up. For this, I often turn to places like Pinterest and favorite blogs as sources of inspiration.
3) Out of all the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
Honestly, I have to give the credit to my clients in this respect. It takes such strength to be able to reevaluate the way you have been living, to allow someone into the most intimate corners of your home, and to open yourself to change. I am continually impressed by my clients’ desire to forward their lives in a more positive, simplified way.
4) Is there a building that you find yourself revisiting repeatedly, because of it’s beautiful and inspiring interiors?
I have a real weakness for beautifully merchandised home décor boutiques. There are a few in the Seattle area—Watson Kennedy comes to mind—that I could spend hours in.
5) How did you get into interior design? And what is your advice for design students looking to follow in your footsteps?
Although amazingly healthy emotionally, my home growing up was disorganized, cluttered and chaotic. My mom has had Multiple Sclerosis since I was four, and so my biography was always about how to compensate for her loss in functioning, especially in regards to household management. I cultivated an appreciation for simplicity and beauty in the process. I subscribe to the belief that there will always be things in life—such as illness- that we’re not able to control or predict, and it is therefore up to us to ensure that everything that is within our control is as straightforward and nurturing as it can be.
