John Trosko is a professional organizer and principal of OrganizingLA, a Los Angeles-based professional organizing and relocation firm founded in 2004. A two-term past President of the Los Angeles Chapter of the National Association of Professional Organizers, John co-authored the "Experts' Guide to Doing Things Faster" published by Clarkson Potter, a division of Random House. His expertise has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, Coastal Living and Real Simple. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of John Trosko.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I operate from the casual California aesthetic of “there is always room for things you love," in which function, usability and modern conveniences are shared alongside a client’s treasured or whimsical collections.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I capture a client’s hopes and dreams and drill them down to actionable steps. We pare down possessions and introduce organizational products that provide visual access and thus usability.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
In my past life I worked as production coordinator for Walt Disney Animation Studios, managing many gifted (including some messy) animators and engineers. I learned to respect the design process and encourage time management skills to keep it moving. Our headquarters were designed by Robert A.M. Stern, and much of the original art deco-era furniture and animation desks were brought over from Disney's original animation studio across the street.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
Organizing can be a lot like therapy. Listening to clients' often insightful stories helps to uncover what's important to them and understand their relationships to their things.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
Having an inclusive, non-judgmental attitude has helped me attract great clients from harried homemakers to accomplished business owners. I believe the keys to success in this industry are developing listening skills and the ability to simplify complex problems, and learning to inspire others toward achieving personal and professional growth.
