- January 17, 2025
- Martha
Welcome to 2025 and the first newsletter from Design of the Times, Inc. and Martha Lowry!
Design of the Times, Inc. is a full-service residential interior design studio founded in 1993, celebrating 32 years in business. I am a native of Huntington West Virginia but have lived in Winston – Salem since 1976. I hold degrees in both Mathematics and Interior Design. In addition, I have worked as a professional Chef and a high school math teacher.
I love how my work as a designer pulls on all of my past education and experiences. The purpose of this newsletter is to keep you informed about what is happening with Design of the Times, Inc. and in design in general.
The Beauty of Classical Design
I love classical design based on the principles of good design. Classical design includes traditional looks encompassing beautiful fabrics and antique or reproduction furniture. It also focuses on good traffic flow for strong function in the home.
There are many design styles available however I am drawn to classical design because it is timeless and focuses on refined details.
Two Truths and a Lie About Good Design
- Good design is timeless
- Good design is functional
- Good design is rigid
As stated above, good design is timeless and not trendy. Good design emphasizes function as well as form; a space must work well for those living there as well as being pleasing to the eye.
Good design is never rigid but flows from room to room in a cohesive manner.
What About Your House Keeps You Up at Night?
Do your rooms feel cramped and crowded? Possible solutions:
- Use multifunctional furniture (e.g. a sofa bed, storage ottoman)
- Add mirrors to create the illusion of more space
- Use vertical space with shelves and wall-mounted storage
Declutter and Adopt a Minimalist Approach
Design of the Times, Inc. can help you conquer cramped and crowded spaces and help you sleep easily at night.
The Joy of Being a Designer
The most joyful aspect of being a designer is getting to work with lovely people and helping them to realize their dreams for their home. The creative process of designing aesthetically pleasing and highly functional spaces is so satisfying.
In each project I use a 15-step approach to project management with detailed communication with my clients. Clients’ personal aesthetic is always represented. In the first step of the 15-step process, I get to spend time in the initial consultation getting to know my new clients and what their dreams are for their home. Then I get to help fulfill those dreams.
One of My Favorite Quotes
“You don’t sell a commodity, you sell joy, gaiety, excitement. You aim at people’s hearts, not their minds.”
—Dorothy Draper
