Designers are aptly attentive to details—from finishes and trims to the just-right proportions. But what about those tedious, desk-confining ones tied to billing, payroll, and other business operations? There’s a reason a bookkeeper is often a designer’s first hire—having operational support can make a big difference.
On January 25 at 1 p.m. ET, Nicole Hollis of the eponymous AD100 firm and studio CEO Lewis Heathcote will share their expertise for building a strong financial foundation for an interior business to scale and sustain. Moderated by Amy Astley, AD global editorial director and US editor in chief, the “Taking Charge of Your Finances” workshop will help design business leaders navigate top-of-mind operational questions.
Amy Astley, AD Global Editorial Director and U.S. Editor in Chief
Lewis Heathcote and Nicole Hollis, CEO and creative director, respectively, of AD100 firm NicoleHollis
Photo: Robert Schlatter
Since founding her eponymous firm in 2002, Hollis has grown the San Francisco–based studio to a team of more than 90 interior designers, interior architects, furniture designers, and operational associates. Her trailblazing residential and hospitality work has earned her a spot on the AD100, as well as ASID’s 2023 Designer of the Year title. Her second monograph is set to publish in 2024, succeeding debut title Nicole Hollis: Curated Interiors.
Amid the studio’s exponential growth, Heathcote has directed firm operations to develop clear and concise contracts, streamline workflows, and create sustainable project loads, among other management logistics. Prior to joining NicoleHollis, he led operational and business development for IT practices.
Over the course of the “Taking Charge of Your Finances” workshop, members will learn how to:
- Know when it’s time to raise your rates—and what to consider when doing so
- Position your studio to scale and make new hires
- Create a recession-proof design business
The one-hour virtual workshop and interactive Q&A is free to attend and open exclusively to AD PRO members. Ready to gain actionable financial advice from a lauded interior design practice? Register now.