Name:
Cara Woodhouse
Company:
Cara Woodhouse Interiors
Contact info:
Address: 240 kent Ave #B10A Brooklyn, NY 11249 O. 917-470-9922 M. 917.251.7937, email: cara@carawoodhouse.com
How many years have you been in business in NYC?
20 years
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
I went to school in NY, I attended NYSID where I got my degree in Interior Design. I new early on that Interior Design was my passion. It all started when I was very young redoing my own bedroom over and over again… Thank g-d I had parents that understood my passion for design when I was young and allowed me to carry out my visions! I started working professionally in the interior design field while I was in school and took a chance on starting up my own firm only a few years into working for a large interior design firm. I have always been ambitious and have had the attitude that i can do whatever I want to do and I am the only one that can make things happen!
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
I pride myself on several things… 1) Being innovative and always researching new products and designs. I think it’s important to evolve continuously. None of my projects have “a look” they are all different and I love collaborating with my clients. 2) Customer service. I am very hands on and totally submerge myself in each and every project that I take on. 3) I live and breath design! I do what I do because i can honestly say I love it…! It truly is my passion through and through.
What do you feel gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
I think my work stands out for itself. People contact me and say that a certain project that I have done that they saw stood out to them from what's out there. That it is different and what they are looking for. Also - in this business it is all about your reputation. Being recommended for a project is by far the biggest form of flattery.
How do you positively impact your clientele?
I would say that I impact my clients with total and complete honesty. I tell it how it is…. I am hired to give my professional opinion… so I do! I think clients appreciate that the most! I also tend to open my clients minds to new products and things that they sometimes would not expect they would like or introduce them to new things and ideas. I tell all of my clients that I will always do right by them. I take on each and every project as though I am designing my own home. I think that is appreciated the most!
What is your favorite part of your job?
I can honestly say I love it all! I love the research and the hunt for the perfect pieces of the puzzle I create. I love the business side of it as well. I definitely consider myself a business woman as well as a creative person.
What is your favorite secret NYC spot?
Sight Unseen/ offsite & The Collective Design Fair - they have the most unusual, different & gorgeous pieces of furniture, lighting and art!
How do you benefit mamas?
I benefit Moms by being practical in areas that you need to be practical in. Having two young boys myself I know how to kiddy proof very well. What sofa fabrics are durable and practical…. colors, materials …. how to special treat rugs and fabrics etc. I would say that 90% of my clients have children and come to me because of this as well! I design practical as well as fun and gorgeous!
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
I literally have clients that tell me they love me! It is the best! Having grateful clients makes my job even that more rewarding than it already is!
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field:
I am as good as my vendors are and I appreciate them so much! Products that I love and inspire me are: Lindsay Cowles, Martha Sturdy, Eskayel, Timorous Beasties, Calico and Faye Too Good
What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
Words to live by…. Never take no for an answer….. and Make it happen! Only you can make the things you want to happen to happen! I believe in energy and putting out there the things you want and they will all come to you! Staying positive and having fun everyday and do what you love!
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
I try to balance life out by trying my best to focus on the tasks and moments at hand. Each morning before work and each night when I get home from work I try to spend quality time with my kids and stay present in the moment. When I am at work I keep on going lists so I can literally conquer every task that needs to be taken care of in the day.