Another winner in the 7 Tide Builder and Developer Contest was kitchen and bath designer Lisa Lally of Roomscapes Cabinetry & Design Center in Rockland, MA. She weighs in on her process and the world of design.

1. In three words describe your personal style.

     Neutral, inviting, and classic.

2. Where do you turn for inspiration?

            Traveling and visiting new places is always the best inspiration. When traveling, I love to visit historic landmarks as well as new trendy hot-spots to get the best variety of styles. On a daily basis, Instagram is an amazing source of inspiration. Whether it’s interiors, nature, portraits or products, there is plenty of visual eye candy to soak in and take cues from.

3. What or who inspires you right now?

            I love seeing the work Meredith Heron does. It’s bold, colorful, and totally unique. While I tend to be more neutral in my selections, she inspires me to push the envelope a little more than I normally would. Taking risks in design, and not following along with mass trends, definitely pays off in the long run.

4. If you could hire any designer other than yourself, who would it be? 

            First off, I would HAVE to hire another designer for myself. I make decisions for other people all day long, but struggle with the mere thought of committing to one pillow or paint color for my own space. I love Amy Meier’s entire aesthetic. Her style is so sophisticated yet totally livable; kind of an understated elegance vibe, which I love.

5. What’s the most over used word in design right now?

SHIPLAP! I know this is probably a very unpopular opinion. I think it’s beautiful when executed properly, but there is a time and a place for it and it doesn’t necessarily work in every space or home.

6. What’s a design rule you completely disagree with?

The need for a work triangle when designing a kitchen. It’s an outdated rule that doesn’t necessarily apply to every kitchen. Today’s lifestyles are much different than those of the ‘40s when this “rule” came to fruition. Kitchen layouts should be determined by many factors including the size of the space, openness to other areas, and how each individual family typically works within that given space. Each kitchen layout is tailored to deliver the most function, storage and convenience for those using it.

7. How do you react to criticism?

Design is very subjective, so I don’t take criticism personally. I try to get to know each of my clients on a personal level and make sure we are on the same page with styles they gravitate towards so I can properly execute their vision for the space. Not every person is going to like everything you suggest. I think it’s very helpful to know what people don’t like in addition to the things they do like. At the end of the day, it’s that collaboration that leads to the final product.