We Will Miss You!
This month we are saying goodbye to one of our team members, Sydney Ridings- Interior Designer, as she is embarking on a new journey across the country. We thought we would ask Sydney a few questions looking back on her time with Nelson Architects and share them with you.
I began my interior design career at Nelson Architects in 2017. During this time, I have had opportunities to work on many design projects including: educational, retail, corporate, and medical settings. I have enjoyed my job and have had fun too. I am thankful that I was able to start my career as a designer at Nelson Architects because I was able to work with good people and this makes design fun.
What was your favorite project to work on? Why?
The Great Falls College MSU Dental Clinic has been one of my favorite projects because I worked collaboratively with the client to ensure their design needs were met. A priority for their staff was storage and organization and it was rewarding to design solutions for them.
What creates the biggest tensions or challenges in your work?
A big challenge of late has been the availability of products due to the pandemic. Some manufacturers have shut down or decreased production which has drastically extended lead time for product availability. In order to meet tight construction deadlines some finishes needed to be changed and resourced and this has been challenging.
How do you create a flawless interior? Design and detail wise?
A flawless interior is created by ensuring close collaboration and communication with owners and construction teams. For example with the Great Falls College MSU Dental Clinic our team met with our client extensively to better understand their vision. This collaboration allowed me to design specific and unique solutions for the project.
How has your idea of the design world evolved since you began working?
The design projects I worked on in school were hypothetical and we did not have precise schedules, budgets, or tight lead times. Working at Nelson Architects, I quickly learned how these elements affect the success of a project. At first, I thought budget constrictions would limit my creativity, but that was not the case!
How have your aesthetic choices changed since you began your career?
My personal aesthetic choices have not changed only solidified. I prefer clean, white, cozy spaces with accent colors to add vibrancy and personality to a space. I follow design trends but, my personal style has remained the same.
What is something you wish more designers would do? Is there an obligation the design community is not honoring, in your opinion?
It would be beneficial to have more opportunity for interior designers to meet and develop camaraderie. This time together would allow designers to learn from each other by sharing product information and inspiration and our love of design.
What will you miss most about your time with the firm?
What I will miss most about working with the Nelson team is the friendships I have developed. I feel blessed to have met some amazing people and will cherish these friendships.
What is next for your future?
My husband and I are moving to his hometown Nashville, Tennessee. Moving to this large city will be a drastic change for me, but I am looking forward to exploring the interior design opportunities available there. I am also excited about exploring all the fun opportunities that Nashville offers.
How can clients keep in touch with your next moves?
I will keep in touch with my clients via Instagram and YouTube. In my free time I will continue to vlog and share my adventures. You can fine me on Instagram @sydneyjridings or on YouTube by searching for Sydney Ridings.