By Beth Rutledge

 

Meet Chicago-based commercial designer Karen Herold. Her imaginative interiors are a delightful mix of vibrancy and comfort.

Name: Karen Herold

Occupation:Partner and Vice President of Design,

555 International, Inc.

, Chicago

Notable Projects: Chicago restaurants

Embeya Girl & the Goat Balena
Wynn hotel's La Cave for Michael Morton at the Morton Group in Las Vegas

STIR: What three words describe you as a designer?
Karen Herold (KH):
STIR: Where do you find your color inspiration?
KH:



STIR: You work with color every day. Do you find your personal preferences (a favorite shade of green, for instance) making their way into your designs?
KH:

STIR: Restaurants and commercial spaces often reflect color trends. How do you keep the spaces you design fresh yet untrendy?
KH:

experience

STIR: Are there any interior design rules you consistently follow?
KH:

STIR: Describe your design process.


look feel



STIR: You've said that you try to make the spaces you create as timeless as possible. How do you accomplish that while still ensuring every place has a unique identity?
KH:




STIR: While you don't market yourself for residential design, are there any particular elements you've used in commercial spaces you believe translate well in homes?
KH: their

STIR: Last question. What's the style vibe in your house?
KH: