We recently had the privilege of interviewing Sandra Fadayel, Founder of INHABITAT.ME, an interior design studio that specialises in giving homeowners the feeling they want to experience in their home. Sandra is a qualified interior designer and exhibited artist with over 17 years of experience in the interior design and art industries.
Inhabitat is a homegrown, Dubai-registered business, which was created to transform homes and premium rentals. In this session, Sandra speaks about her career trajectory, services offered in her company, and also shares some suggestions for aspiring professionals in the field.
Sandra’s Professional Journey
We started the session by asking, “Could you start by telling us about your professional career path?”
Sandra Fadayel shared, “I’ve always been driven by the desire for creative freedom and the opportunity to make meaningful work. I began my design journey studying Architecture at Bath University before specializing in Interior Design with a Master’s from Pratt Institute.
My career has taken me across renowned design studios globally – from New York to Florence, Toronto to Amman, and now Dubai. I felt it was time to leverage my unique skill set and entrepreneurial spirit to create my platform; which is when Inhabitat came into existence. Beyond interior design, I also create medium to large-scale abstract artworks which sit well in contemporary homes.”
Growing Business with Continuous Learning
We were intrigued to learn more about the factors that inspired and shaped Sandra Fadayel’s personal and professional journey. So, we asked, “What have been some of the key lessons you’ve learned in starting your business that have reshaped your approach to work and life?”
Sandra Fadayel replied, “Firstly, I’ve learned that creativity ebbs and flows like any resource. Starting projects, even when they seem daunting, is key to unlocking those creative bursts. Secondly, balancing my roles as a creator and a critic was a real challenge at first. I’ve found it crucial to switch between these mindsets and seek fresh perspectives when I’ve hit a wall.
Lastly, collaboration and sharing have become valuable to me, as they maintain my creative momentum, bring new ideas, and motivate me. Connecting with others and seeking mentorship have greatly influenced my personal and professional growth.”
Nurturing Innovation and Development
We further asked, “As a solopreneur, how do you foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation?”
Sandra Fadayel responded, “I’d say the aspect I invest most of my time in is personal and professional development. In addition, I also nurture supplier relationships, seek feedback from clients, and traveling now and again keeps my creativity tank full.”
The Power of Clients’ Input in Shaping Design
Customer insights play a crucial role in uplifting business operations. We asked, “What role does client input play in shaping the direction of your projects?”
“Client input serves as the cornerstone of my design process. Each project commences with a detailed discovery call where I delve into the client’s vision for their home. This exchange is pivotal as it shapes every aspect of the design journey, encompassing both aesthetic aspirations and functional requirements.” Sandra responded.
Leveraging Experience in Practice
To learn more about Sandra’s approach towards merging her experience in her business operations, we inquired, “How do you leverage your past experiences to shape your new venture?”
Sandra Fadayel replied, “I draw on my experiences in several ways. Perhaps most obviously, having honed my skill sets in creative development, styling, art curation, and space planning, which all come together in highly tailored designs for my clients. I also prioritize a collaborative work culture, which is essential as every design project is a collective journey involving clients, designers, and suppliers.
I enjoy mentoring emerging talents and value their fresh perspectives. Effective project management and clear communication are key for smooth operations and client happiness.”
Current Offerings
We were curious to learn more about the services offered by Sandra’s business. So, we asked, “Could you tell us more about your services/products and if you have any upcoming plans regarding them?”
Sandra Fadayel replied, “We offer a variety of services designed to meet different needs. We typically provide end-to-end interior design services for clients where we handle everything from concept to final execution, ensuring a smooth transformation of a home. I also offer hourly design consultations, where I provide quick insights or a second opinion on projects, whether for homeowners or fellow designers seeking collaboration.
In terms of upcoming plans – we’ll soon be offering online design services, perfect for clients who want expert design solutions but prefer to implement them themselves. I’m also launching an art collection of abstract paintings that are perfect for modern, contemporary spaces.”
Advice for Beginners
We ended the interview by asking, “Would you like to give beginners in the same industry some advice?”
Sandra Fadayel shared, “My key advice would be to prioritize creating, and continually building your skills – through courses, mentorship – but most importantly through practical experience. Building a strong foundation of skills not only enhances your expertise but also boosts your confidence in delivering exceptional results.
Additionally, resist the temptation to undersell yourself or your talents – recognize your worth and the value you bring to every project.”
Follow Sandra Fadayel on LinkedIn or Instagram
Find INHABITAT.ME on LinkedIn and visit their website https://inhabitat.me/
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