Interior Design San Diego - Presented by ASID San Diego

Rachel Larraine Crawford
  • 5.0 (5)
  • DESIGN

First Episode launches on September 18th, 2025! Interior Design San Diego - Presented by the ASID San Diego Chapter is your local hub for inspiration, connection, and growth in the design community. Created to support our chapter members, this podcast shares practical business practices, insights from fellow designers, and the many benefits of being part of ASID. Listeners will also stay in the loop on upcoming events, gain valuable product knowledge from our industry partners, and hear the stories that shape our design community. Each month, we’ll also feature a special student-led episode—where the next generation of designers brings fresh topics, perspectives, and curiosity to the mic. Your host, Rachel Larraine Crawford—award-winning designer, founder of Tiger Veil, and voice behind the Holistic Interior Design and Hospitality Design Talks podcasts—brings her signature blend of wisdom and creativity. As a past Communications Director for ASID San Diego, Rachel understands the power of community and connection within our chapter and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an emerging designer, or a student just beginning your journey, this podcast is designed for you. Tune in, learn, and celebrate the strength of our San Diego design community.

  1. 022: Designing for Healing with Julia Savas

    5D AGO

    022: Designing for Healing with Julia Savas

    In this episode, Rachel chats with Julia Savas, a fourth-year interior architecture student at San Diego State University, about following a clear design calling, discovering a passion for healthcare and wellness spaces, and finding confidence as an emerging professional in the San Diego design community. In this episode, you’ll hear: How a fifth-grade dream became a focused path in interior architectureWhy personal experiences in healthcare spaces shaped Julia’s design lensThe gap between design school and business—and how internships helpHow students are actually using AI in their projectsJulia’s advice for new design students: say yes, show up, and let your interests evolve About Julia Julia Savas is a senior graduating this semester from San Diego State University’s School of Art and Design. A four-year ASID member, they studied architecture abroad in Florence and gained hands-on experience as an intern with Humble Design and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. As they prepare for post-graduation, they’re embracing the transition from student to emerging professional; pursuing certifications, licensure, and meaningful connections within San Diego’s design community, with a long-term focus on healthcare architecture. Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

    34 min
  2. 021: From Concept to Check-In: Inside the Sophia Hotel with Anjum Razvi

    FEB 5

    021: From Concept to Check-In: Inside the Sophia Hotel with Anjum Razvi

    In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Larraine Crawford sits down with the incredible Anjum Razvi, founder and principal of Razvi Design Studio, to explore her dynamic 40+ year design journey from architecture in India to boutique hospitality design in San Diego. Anjum shares how motherhood, resilience, and a passion for creative freedom shaped the evolution of her studio—and how a single ASID showcase bathroom led to her biggest project to date: the iconic Sofia Hotel. If you’ve ever wondered how small residential jobs can lead to big opportunities, or what it takes to transition into hospitality design, this episode is for you. 🌟 Highlights:Anjum’s early spark: Following her architect cousin on site visits in IndiaFinding design footing: Navigating identity, licensing, and inspiration in a new countryFrom freelance to founder: How flexibility and intuition shaped her firm’s growthLanding the Sofia Hotel: A career-defining opportunity born from an ASID showcaseHospitality design today: Tech integration, sustainability, and business-minded creativityTeaching and mentorship: Why sharing knowledge gives just as much as it gets 🛎️ Key Takeaways:Design exposure matters – Participating in ASID showcases directly led to Anjum’s hospitality work.Hospitality is business – Great design must align with guest experience and the owner's bottom line.Stay adaptable – Whether designing 200 unique hotel rooms or shifting to tech-integrated spaces, flexibility is key.Your background is a strength – Anjum’s architectural foundation and global perspective set her apart.Mentorship multiplies impact – Teaching at NewSchool and mentoring ASID members keeps her connected and inspired. About Anjum Razvi President | Founder. Anjum Razvi has a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, is a professional member of ASID and is certified by CCIDC and NCIDQ. Her design firm provides interior design services that include residential properties, hospitality properties, commercial businesses and office spaces. Razvi Design Studio specializes in guiding clients through the endless decisions required for new home construction or an extensive architectural remodel. The designers skillfully detail materials and furnishings to create a unique finished style that is both functional and beautiful. Design expertise includes whole homes, kitchens, baths, custom built-ins, material specifications and more. The design firm provides aesthetic and pragmatic design solutions for public areas and guest rooms of boutique hotel properties, both historical and new. No matter what type of project, they specialize in the intelligent integration of architecture and interior design to create an extraordinary environment. Additionally, Anjum has been...

    48 min

  3. JAN 29

    020: Spring Spruce Up: 3 Years In, Here’s What I’ve Learned

    In this solo episode, host Rachel Larraine Crawford pulls back the curtain on one of her favorite community-driven events: ASID San Diego’s Spring Spruce Up. Now in her third year of participating, Rachel shares how this one-hour consultation event has helped her generate real leads, deepen community ties, and give back in a meaningful way. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just stepping into the field, this episode is packed with practical advice for making the most of your Spruce Up experience—from tools to bring, how to prep, and the key to turning consultations into long-term clients. What You'll Learn: What the Spring Spruce Up is (and why it matters)Rachel’s tried-and-true prep and follow-up strategyWhat types of consultations to expect (spoiler: it’s not all paint picks!)How AI tools like Plaud can streamline your follow-upsThe power of bringing students along for the ride Key Takeaways: 20% of Rachel’s consultations have turned into full projectsFollowing up within 24 hours makes all the differenceTangible tools like paint kits and business cards go a long way—especially with older clientsRecording your sessions (with permission!) can simplify your follow-up workflowIt’s a fundraiser—but also a powerful lead generator ASID Spring Spruce Up Requirements: Must be an ASID member in good standingMinimum of 3 years of professional design experienceAvailable March 1 – April 31, 2026Sign up deadline 1/31/26Sign up link. Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the...

    24 min
  4. 019: Design, Community & Change: Lauri Howell on Leading Through Transitions in ASID + Industry

    JAN 22

    019: Design, Community & Change: Lauri Howell on Leading Through Transitions in ASID + Industry

    Today on Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Crawford sits down with Lauri Howell, a designer, community-builder, and longtime ASID leader who has navigated big career shifts — from running her own design firm, to leading chapter boards, to her current role connecting design professionals with resources at Sunset West. Lauri dives deep into why community truly matters in design, how leadership transitions shape us, and what the future holds for designers at all stages. 💡 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Lauri’s Path Into Design Lauri shares her winding journey from communications school (thanks, Mom!) to finding her people at the Art Institute of San Diego, and how her thesis project turned into her first real professional opportunity. ✨ Finding Community Through ASID Hear how a single volunteer signup led Lauri into leadership — from event chair roles to chapter president. She breaks down how getting involved early can instantly transform your experience from outsider to insider. 📍 Region-to-Region Design Culture Lauri has worked across San Diego, Orange County, and Arizona. She reflects on the subtle cultural shifts between regions and elevates San Diego for its sophisticated, collaborative design vibe that sometimes goes under the radar. 🤝 Collaboration Over Ego A core theme of this episode: design isn’t done in isolation. Lauri underscores why collaboration — with peers, industry partners, manufacturers, and clients — is the backbone of successful work and stronger design communities. ↻ Leadership Lessons Through Challenges From near-board-collapse moments to unexpectedly busy events, Lauri shares candid stories on resilience, pivoting, and why persistence wins in leadership and design. 🎓 What ASID Needs for the Next Gen Lauri offers actionable insight into how ASID (and industry at large) can better serve emerging designers — from pathways to licensure to business fundamentals that go beyond cocktail-hour networking. 🏡 Sunset West & Designer Partnerships Learn what drew Lauri to her current role at Sunset West, how the brand uniquely supports designers (like no minimums and quick lead times), and how manufacturer–designer partnerships are evolving to be more transparent, educational, and collaborative. ⚡ Confidence & Creative Identity Lauri wraps with an empowering message for designers: embrace your unique skill set, trust your voice, and recognize the depth of capabilities you already bring to the table. 📅 Key TakeawaysVolunteer roles are career accelerators — you don’t have to wait for opportunity; step in and the community will meet you there.Leadership is about recreating spaces where others feel connected, not about titles or ego.San Diego designers are world-class — and it’s time that reputation gets louder.Emerging professionals need more than events — they need tools, pathways, and business literacy.Partnerships with manufacturers are strongest when built on education, transparency, and mutual support.Confidence in your craft is as essential as technical skills. 🎯 Who This Episode Is For✔ Emerging designers or recent graduates ✔ Mid‑career professionals looking to deepen community connections ✔ ASID members or industry partners ✔ Designers navigating...

    46 min
  5. 018: Laura Abrams - The Power of Presence: Building a Design Business with Heart.

    JAN 16

    018: Laura Abrams - The Power of Presence: Building a Design Business with Heart.

    In this episode of Interior Design San Diego, host Rachel Lorraine Crawford is joined by Laura Abrams, founder and creative force behind Laura Abrams Design. Laura shares her journey from early design instincts to building a boutique design studio rooted in “livable luxury” — a philosophy centered on comfort, function, and elevated living. Laura opens up about what it takes to run a small design firm with intention, how to shape meaningful client experiences, and how she maintains creativity, balance, and joy in her business. This conversation dives deep into systems, process, boundaries, burnout, and evolution — offering practical insights for designers at every stage of their career. 🎧 What You’ll Learn 1. Defining Your Design Identity Laura describes her core design ethos — livable luxury — where beauty meets practical living, especially for families with pets and kids. She discusses discovering her creative calling early and pursuing interior design with purpose from the very beginning. 2. Intentional Business Choices Instead of building a large firm, Laura chose a small, personal studio to protect flexibility, quality, and client relationships — especially important once she started a family. 3. Team, Hiring & Scale Laura talks about finding the right team members, why design education mattered in her hiring decisions, and the moment she knew she needed help to sustain her business. 4. Defining Success on Your Terms Success, for Laura, has shifted from accolades and publication to quality of life — like taking a two‑week vacation knowing her business hums without her. 5. A Client Experience Built Around Trust & Process Laura walks through her three‑stage client journey (Kickoff → Concept → Detailed Design) that helps keep projects calm, clear, and collaborative. She discusses how setting expectations, communication channels, and deliverables upfront creates strong relationships and better outcomes. 6. Burnout, Recalibration, and Coaching Laura shares how COVID pushed her to the brink, and how working with both a business coach and life coach helped her recalibrate, establish healthier rhythms, and sustain creativity. 7. How Laura Fills Her Creative Well From time in nature to trade shows and exhibitions like Salone del Mobile Milano, Laura reveals how she intentionally refuels her imagination. 8. Hard Lessons & Smart Systems Important takeaways include having rock‑solid contracts, flat‑fee pricing models that respect time and scope, payment boundaries, and clear communication to avoid confusion downstream. About Laura: Laura Abrams Design, Inc. is a full service, boutique interior design firm located in San Diego, CA. LAD has designed projects all over the United States and abroad including new construction and remodeling. Lead designer Laura Abrams is a National Certification for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam-certified designer and active member of the American Society of Interior Designers. With over 20 years of experience, Laura studied Interior Design at Florida State University and the Interior Design Institute in Milan, Italy. She has won multiple design awards and has been recognized in magazines including the Wall Street Journal, San Diego Home and Garden, Florida Design, Modern Luxury and more. LAD, Inc. specializes in residential design and is passionate about guiding and educating their clients through the journey of home design. Laura’s design style is livable luxury and the spaces she provides are calming, inviting and practical for everyday living. She spends a great deal of time getting to know her clients so their homes are truly an extension of who they are. Her goal is to create spaces that bring joy, calm and connection through combining her clients’ needs with her design expertise....

    43 min
  6. 017: How I Got Here: A Real Talk Design Career Deep Dive Student Edition w/ Lynn SalbatoS

    JAN 8

    017: How I Got Here: A Real Talk Design Career Deep Dive Student Edition w/ Lynn SalbatoS

    In this special episode, we’re flipping the mic! Interior design student Lynn Salbato from Mesa College joins me for a candid Q&A that started as a school assignment—and turned into one of my favorite conversations about business, balance, and building a career in design. We cover everything from how I landed my first client (hi, Thumbtack!) to what I really wish someone told me before starting my own firm. Lynn brings the smart questions—and I’m sharing it all: the messy parts, the wins, and why community and mentorship (hello, ASID!) have mattered most along the way. Whether you’re a student, emerging designer, or just curious what happens behind the scenes of a boutique design studio, this episode is full of real talk and real tools. 👂 What you’ll hear in this episode: How I made the leap from showrooms to solo designerMy philosophy on pricing, flat fees, and charging what you’re worthA business mistake I made recently—and what it taught meWhy having a mentor (or becoming one) changes everythingThe role ASID San Diego has played in my career—and how to get involved now ✨ “If you’re not being invited to the table—make your own table.” About Lynn Salbato: Lynn Salbato is currently completing her Certificate in Interior Design at San Diego Mesa College, a path inspired by a lifelong love for the visual world and a desire to create evocative atmospheres. Working alongside her husband, she focuses on Interior Design for Masterworks Construction Co. and serves as a Realtor with Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, helping homeowners recognize the potential in a property and translate that vision into reality. When she isn’t focusing on her design work, Lynn is a volunteer for the San Diego Architectural Foundation’s annual Open House (OH!) event and an active member of Toastmasters International. She leverages this multi-faceted expertise to help her clients navigate the entire process of purchasing, designing, and bringing their projects to life. Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: rachel@tigerveil.com

    1h 11m

  7. JAN 1

    016: Design Trends vs. Design Truths: What Matters in 2026

    Design Trends vs. Design Truths: What Really Matters in 2026Hosted by Rachel Larraine Crawford, ASID Allied Happy New Year, design community! In this solo episode, Rachel kicks off 2026 with a fresh (and grounding) perspective on what’s actually worth paying attention to—beyond the “what’s in / what’s out” lists flooding your feed every January. You’ll hear the trends showing up in meaningful ways this year, a handful of unexpected aesthetic shifts worth watching, and the timeless design truths that never go out of style. Rachel also shares ASID San Diego chapter updates, how to get involved as a member or sponsor, and a simple design prompt to carry into the new year. Chapter Updates + Save the Date Rachel opens with gratitude for ASID San Diego members, volunteers, and industry partners who helped make the chapter’s programming, events, and collaborations possible. Sponsorship opportunities for 2026 are still available. If you or your company want to support programming, education, or outreach, reach out to ASID San Diego’s president: president@CASD.ASID.org Next Chapter MeetingJanuary 21 (third Wednesday of the month) at Visions Museum of Textile Art (Liberty Station) Topic: Custom Window Treatments — a frequently overlooked design element with major aesthetic impact and profit potential. Rachel teases a conversation on elevating projects through custom solutions, client relationships, motorization/tech, and where craftsmanship still matters in the age of AI. To RSVP / attend: membership@CASD.ASID.org (Membership Chair: Kendra) What’s Trending in 2026 (The Meaningful Shifts) Rachel breaks down the trends designers are already noticing—and why they matter beyond surface style. 1) Earthy + Moody Color Palettes A continued move away from gray/white toward sun-washed clay, moss green, dusty rose and other grounded hues.At the same time: a resurgence of deep forest green, inky navy, charcoal, oxblood, even black-on-black for cocoon-like, luxe spaces.Takeaway: These palettes aren’t loud—they’re emotionally intelligent, creating sanctuary and depth. 2) Texture-Forward, Sensory Materials Luxury is shifting from “shiny” to tactile: plaster, brushed limestone, honed stone, character woods, coarse linen, chunky textiles. Takeaway: Designers are specifying for the body as much as the eye—helping clients feel more grounded in a post-digital world. 3) Reimagined Nostalgia Not literal replicas—more like memory translated: curved cabinetry, fluted glass, low-slung seating, subtle checkerboard, with nods to the 70s and 90s (without going full theme). Takeaway: Nostalgia becomes a doorway to storytelling and comfort. 4) Wellness as the Baseline Wellness is no longer an add-on. Expect more: Circadian lightingAcoustic zoningAir quality upgradesLow-VOC / non-toxic materialsNature integration (plants, water, natural light)Takeaway: Clients are asking how a space feels, supports stress levels, sleep, and energy—not just how it looks. 5) Personalization Over “Perfect” The catalog-perfect interior is giving way to homes with soul: handmade pieces, layered art, heirlooms, mixed metals/woods, story-driven choices. Takeaway: Meaning beats status. Local makers and artist collaborations become a standout value-add. Unexpected Trends Worth Watching Rachel shares a few emerging shifts that may not be on the usual “top 10” lists. Bold aesthetic fusion (playful, cross-cultural, eclectic “attitude” aesthetics seen on platforms like Pinterest)Wallpaper in unexpected places (ceilings, cabinets, closets, mural-scale, textured coverings, narrative prints as

    26 min

  8. 12/18/2025

    015: Design Your Dream Year – A Guided Planning Session for 2026

    What if instead of winging it into 2026, you actually carved out time to design your business—and your life—with clarity, calm, and creative purpose? In this solo episode, I’m walking you through the exact process I use to plan my year—not just for projects and profits, but for alignment. This isn’t a rigid goal-setting workshop or a “new year, new you” kind of vibe. It’s a cozy, journal-in-hand moment to reflect on what worked (and what didn’t) in 2025, dream into what’s possible for 2026, and make a plan that feels like you. Whether you're on a walk, between site visits, or curled up on the couch, this is your permission slip to slow down, zoom out, and reconnect with your vision as an independent designer. In This Episode, You’ll Journal Through: Your favorite design moments (and the ones that made you want to quit)What actually brought in revenue—and what drained your energyHow to design your calendar around your life (not the other way around)A vision for 2026 that feels exciting and sustainableWho you need to become to lead your business with more ease Here’s a Little Homework (the fun kind!): Print a blank 2026 calendarPour some tea, or coffeeHit pause after each prompt to journal it outUse this session as your personal planning retreat You deserve a business that supports your life—not one that consumes it. Let this episode be your starting point. And hey, if you love it or have your own rituals for planning the year ahead, send me a message rachel@tigerveil.com . I’d truly love to hear what you’re dreaming up for 2026. Stay Connected: Sign Up for Our NewsletterASID San Diego WebsiteLinkedInFollow us on InstagramAsk your question, share a topic of interest or be our guest here.Subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss upcoming episodesShare this podcast with a fellow designer in your communityQuestions, sponsorship or feed back: sandiegoasid@gmail.com

    17 min
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About

First Episode launches on September 18th, 2025! Interior Design San Diego - Presented by the ASID San Diego Chapter is your local hub for inspiration, connection, and growth in the design community. Created to support our chapter members, this podcast shares practical business practices, insights from fellow designers, and the many benefits of being part of ASID. Listeners will also stay in the loop on upcoming events, gain valuable product knowledge from our industry partners, and hear the stories that shape our design community. Each month, we’ll also feature a special student-led episode—where the next generation of designers brings fresh topics, perspectives, and curiosity to the mic. Your host, Rachel Larraine Crawford—award-winning designer, founder of Tiger Veil, and voice behind the Holistic Interior Design and Hospitality Design Talks podcasts—brings her signature blend of wisdom and creativity. As a past Communications Director for ASID San Diego, Rachel understands the power of community and connection within our chapter and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, an emerging designer, or a student just beginning your journey, this podcast is designed for you. Tune in, learn, and celebrate the strength of our San Diego design community.

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