Marilyn Russell is the founder of Design Magnifique a boutique interior design firm, based in Florida. After receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, she went on to open her very own design firm, specialising in commercial and residential design. Marilyn is an Allied member of ASID and has been hand selected to work on the panel of Blanco, DXV and Top Knobs. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Marilyn Russell.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
My unique style and creative aesthetic tends to be industrial contemporary or contemporary industrial with bold uses of colors. I’m drawn to clean lines with a textured edge using distressed materials. I tend to infuse this marriage in just about any design style I create; or maybe a touch of it somewhere in the space.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
My creative process begins with doodling, which stems from the vision I gain when touring a new space and interviewing clients. This process then leads to a more defined loose sketch. To further develop an idea, I turn towards fabric for pattern inspiration and art for color usage.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
The pool of talented designers is vast; but the ones that really set themselves apart are my teammates, Najla Jalal and Minel Gonzalez. Their styles couldn’t be more different from mine; Najla is contemporary relaxed while Minel is pure bohemian chic. We each bring a different design perspective when starting a project, which works very well.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I draw inspiration from just about everything but mostly the images taken on my international travels. I love European street fashion. I find Europeans to be uniquely savvy about their style and bold with their color usage. The pattern mixes and color choices are ridiculously clever.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
My unwavering passion for interior design has brought me to the depths of where I am now. My advice for people wanting to pursue an interior design career is to learn the business end of the industry. Interior Design is a multifaceted discipline that requires a dearth of knowledge. It takes a well-rounded professional to understand and respect that interior design is not only about making spaces more functional and beautiful but also about what it takes to be a successful designer. Become a life-long learner and network with seasoned industry professionals and never let go of that passion.
