{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Ep 224: Intention Behind Design: Interview with Kate Vitale","description":"In this episode, Michelle sits down with Kate Vitale, founder of Vitale Interiors, to explore the intersection of interior design, wellness, and intuition. With a background in corporate fashion and trend forecasting, Kate brings a unique perspective to creating spaces that feel grounded, calming, and deeply personal. They dive into what \u201cinterior wellness\u201d actually looks like in practice, how designers can better listen to what clients aren\u2019t saying, and the realities of building a creative business\u2014from confidence challenges to finding community. This conversation is equal parts design philosophy, business growth, and personal evolution. Kate Vitale is the founder of Vitale Interiors, a Long Island based interior design studio known for blending timeless style with a sense of calm and groundedness. Formerly a fashion executive, Kate brings an intuitive approach to design, carrying with her a refined instinct for what feels both current and enduring. Vitale Interiors is celebrated for its textural, nature-rooted approach to elevated living - layering natural materials, classic elements, and wellness-driven principles to create elevated spaces that feel like home. She helps clients tune into what they really want, beyond trends or expectations, and create spaces that reflect them on every level.   What You\u2019ll Learn in This Episode What \u201cinterior wellness\u201d really means (beyond buzzwords and trends) How textures, color, and layout subtly impact how we feel in a space Why clients often communicate their needs indirectly\u2014and how to listen for it The truth about trends in interior design (and why they\u2019re not as fleeting as you think) How Kate transitioned from corporate fashion to running her own design studio The role intuition plays in both design decisions and client relationships The confidence shifts required when stepping into leadership as a business owner Why community and support are essential when growing a creative business   Key Takeaways Design is more than visual\u2014it\u2019s emotional. The way a space is layered, textured, and arranged directly affects how people feel, even if they can\u2019t articulate why. Clients don\u2019t always say what they need\u2014but they show you. Pay attention to the underlying meaning behind comments like \u201cwe never use this room\u201d or \u201csomething feels off.\u201d Trends aren\u2019t the enemy. Unlike fast fashion, interior design trends evolve slowly\u2014often lasting 15\u201320 years when applied thoughtfully. Confidence is built through doing. Learning to trust your vision (and not over-deliver unnecessary options) is a key shift in becoming a strong designer. Building a business is personal growth work. Entrepreneurship will surface new challenges\u2014and new levels of self-awareness.   Notable Moments Kate\u2019s perspective on balancing aesthetics with emotional impact The story behind her shift from fashion to interiors during COVID A candid conversation about confidence, client presentations, and over-delivering Michelle and Kate discussing how design decisions influence connection within a home The importance of intentionality\u2014in both life and business   About Kate Vitale Kate Vitale is the founder of Vitale Interiors, a Long Island-based design studio known for creating timeless, grounded spaces rooted in nature and wellness. With a background in fashion and trend forecasting, she blends intuition with strategy to design homes that reflect her clients on a deeper level.   Resources & Mentions The Book Thief by Markus Zusak Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith   Connect with Kate Instagram (Personal): @katevitale_ Instagram (Business): @vitaleinteriors   Want to work with Michelle?  Email our team at hello@thedesignbakehouse.com to learn more about coaching opportunities like Kate experienced. Loved This Episode? If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow designer and leave a review. It helps more creatives discover the show and grow their businesses with intention.   ","author_name":"Designed for the Creative Mind\u2122","author_url":"https:\/\/thedesignbakehouse.com\/designed-for-the-creative-mind-pod","html":"