In our latest From the Tap podcast, we talked with Natalie Owens and Victoria Armour, co-owners of the Halifax-based interior design studio Stil James, about best practices for building a successful design business using a team-based model.
In the dynamic world of interior design, adopting a team-based staffing model instead of a traditional hierarchical structure can fuel innovation, productivity, and overall business success. Owens and Armour point out that unlike conventional top-down organizations, a team-based approach emphasizes collaboration, open communication and shared responsibility. This structure encourages every member to contribute their unique skills and perspectives, resulting in creative solutions that are richer and more diverse.
The Still James leaders explain how a team-driven environment empowers designers to take ownership of projects, fostering a sense of accountability and pride in the work. By dissolving rigid hierarchies, firms can adapt more quickly to client needs and shifting design trends, as decisions are made collectively and efficiently. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in creative fields, where inspiration and problem-solving thrive on the free exchange of ideas.
Moreover, team-based offices nurture professional growth by facilitating mentorship and continuous learning. Junior staff can readily learn from experienced colleagues, while seasoned designers benefit from fresh viewpoints. Team-building exercises and shared challenges further strengthen interpersonal bonds, building trust and cohesion.
Clients, too, benefit from a collaborative model, Owens and Armour point out how they receive the collective expertise of the firm rather than the vision of a single designer, often leading to higher satisfaction and more innovative results. For growing practices, team-based structures scale well, allowing businesses to expand while maintaining a strong, inclusive culture.
To learn more, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.
