In our latest From the Tap podcast, we speak with Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry, co-founders of Pulp Design Studios, about how they steer clients beyond “safe” choices – including how they build trust, when to push, when to pull back and the strategies they use to help clients feel confident making bold design moves.
This conversation centers on how designers guide clients past conventional, safe design choices and encourage them to embrace bold, personalized design decisions. Carolina and Beth begin by discussing the importance of understanding each client’s intentions for their home – whether it is a forever residence or something they plan to sell in a few years. By asking a series of thoughtful questions during the intake process, they aim to clarify the client’s goals and preferences. This approach helps them balance creativity with practicality, especially when considering bold moves, such as using unusual tile colors, that may not suit resale needs.
They emphasize the value of strategic communication, helping clients make smart choices that are both daring and sensible. Beth notes the challenge of achieving innovative design without making the space overly eccentric or too tailored to an individual’s personality. The goal is to create a space that is distinctive yet appealing enough for future buyers, should the client decide to sell. By keeping the design grounded in the client’s story, background and experiences, the designers foster a sense of empowerment and confidence, encouraging clients to inject their personality into their homes. This process often involves honest and direct conversations, with both Carolina and Beth being transparent about the risks and rewards of bold design.
One key strategy they use is demystifying the vulnerability associated with personalizing a space. Their upcoming book includes a chapter on being brave enough to showcase one’s story in their living environment. Instead of following trends or mimicking what everyone else is doing, they encourage clients to be fearless and authentic. For clients who crave individuality, the designers aim to create spaces that reflect their unique tastes and experiences, rather than conforming to mainstream aesthetics.
Going for the Bold
Specific examples illustrate how the designers guide clients through bold decisions, particularly in kitchen and bath projects. Beth recounts a recent kitchen project for a client who loves vibrant color and moody designs. Initially, the selected palette seemed outlandish on paper, resembling a circus, but through renderings and visualizations, the client gained confidence. The designers offered the option to view a safer, white version, but the dramatic jewel box design prevailed, delighting the client and her husband. Beth highlights that showing clients detailed renderings helps them envision the outcome and trust the process, reinforcing the idea that taking risks can yield exceptional results. She also reassures clients that changes are always possible – colors can be swapped in renderings or even repainted if needed for resale.
In bathroom projects, Beth and Carolina pushed clients to opt for bold choices, such as a striking floor in a Hawaii home. The floor, which required meticulous installation and featured almost zero grout lines, became the centerpiece. The design was not only visually impressive but also delivered a luxurious tactile experience. The casework and mirrors, inspired by surfboards, added to the dynamic yet refined ambiance. Despite external challenges like COVID and the Maui fires, the designers persisted, resulting in a unique, bold bathroom they are eager to share.
Overall, the conversation underscores the importance of building trust, open communication, and providing visual reassurance to help clients move beyond safe choices. By focusing on authenticity and personal storytelling, the designers empower clients to make fearless, bold decisions that transform their homes into true reflections of their lives.
To hear the full conversation with Beth Dotolo and Carolina Gentry, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.
