For over two decades, Dallas, Texas based interior designer, Cynthia Collins of Collins Interiors has been creating beautiful interiors that are inviting, timeless and functional. I first saw her work pinned on Pinterest and became an instant fan of her classic style with a fresh twist. Collins Interiors pride themselves in working closely with clients on the smallest of details resulting in designs that is unique and personal. For a timeless, curated look, Cynthia and her team are also known to hand pick antiques, lamps, art or other accessories for clients while traveling abroad.
I’m thrilled to be interviewing Cynthia today!
Simplified Bee: When did you know you wanted to be an interior designer?
Cynthia Collins: As a young girl, I was always keen on my surroundings. It wasn’t until later that I realized at an early age I was responding differently to spaces — I could immediately feel the difference between a pleasant room and an uninviting room. Also, my grandmother collected Asian inspired pieces (she was ahead of her time!) — I just took an interest in her collection at an early on and still love all things with an Asian influence. I think this may have spurred my interest in all things design related!
SB: How would you describe your personal style?
CC: My style evolves — I appreciate a lot of different looks. But I like things to look clean and timeless.
SB: Who would you most like to collaborate with on a project?
CC: Matisse! If only, right?! I’d love to commission him for one of his pieces during his Fauvism movement. The colors are brilliant!
SB: Do you have “go to” paint colors? If so, which ones?
CC: One of my favorite whites is Benjamin Moore Linen White. It seems to have the perfect combo of soft and crisp.
SB: Where do you recommend clients splurge?
CC: I’m a big believer in art! Art is the best way to get such a diverse range of colors and mediums into your home. In most cases, great art only appreciates. I also think it’s important to splurge on trims (flanges, cords, tapes, etc) — they are guaranteed to separate your home from your neighbors. So often we see client’s with a big room and a standard size rug. Splurge for a custom-size rug to fit your room. Your room will grow beyond measure!
SB: You have embraced social media and write a
blog in addition to being on
Facebook. What is your advice to other interior designers who are timid about trying social media marketing outlets?
CC: Do it! I have gotten a wealth of great feedback from our social media efforts — it’s just the nature of the marketing landscape these days. It’s such a helpful tool to connect one-on-one with my clients and followers. We have an instagram too, come find us! @blue_print_store
SB: Fill in the blank. No room is complete without…
CC: good lighting!!! Great lamps and overhead fixtures are key to setting a comfortable mood in your home.
SB: Tell us about your store
Blue Print and how it came to be.
CC: Four of my dear friends and I traveled for years to the UK and France for own design firms and in 2010 decided it was due time for a storefront! Blue Print is a home design shop specializing in custom upholstery, lighting, rugs, accessories and original art set in a restored 1920s home in uptown, Dallas, TX
SB: What’s next for Collins Interiors?
CC: My staff and I are just buzzing along — we have several projects out of state right now which is keeping us mighty busy! I’ve challenged my team to design new pieces for Blue Print’s custom furniture line. It’s all very fun and exciting!
Thank you Cynthia for your time and we will be on the look out for your new furniture line!
Cristin
*all images courtesy of Collins Interiors
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