Megan Swoyer: What are some of your favorite projects, and why?
Staci Meyers: I’m not sure I have a favorite. To me, each project is more than just a design — it’s personal, and I love creating spaces people enjoy.
(That being said), I have to name a few. One was a Mid-century historic renovation, a home that had great bones and beautiful views of a ravine. A Franklin residence was a major renovation, and full of color. The first powder room (I did, which) was a side project for me before I officially started my design practice. It was a small project, but I’d been given the freedom to design details that were custom, and a fun surprise.
MS: What do you find to be a challenge when designing?
SM: Being patient. I love what I do so much, it’s often hard to wait to see things in the completed stage. Especially right now, (because the) timing of things isn’t the same, and I’m learning that all great things come to those who wait.
MS: What did you love about working on the home that’s featured in the winter issue?
SM: The timeless custom details in the wood paneling and the trim details throughout the home. The repetition of the white trim, rich wood, and clean, tailored selections made the home feel welcoming for family gatherings.
MS: Is it difficult to have your office at home, given that your kids are young and are often there while you work? How old are the twins now?
SM: Working from home was an easy transition. I had made the choice years back to add a private design studio to my personal residence. My twin boys, who are going to be 9 this February, have their own personal desks in the mudroom just down the hall from the studio. They’ve learned to be quiet when they stop in my office for something. They’ve met more of my clients in the past six months than in the last nine years!
MS: Is your husband into home design at all?
SM: Lonnie has learned the design industry over the past 15 years of our marriage. I know I’ve affected how he sees design and architecture. He’s quick to point out a flaw or a well-done detail when we’re out and visiting a new place.
MS: What does your in-home design studio look like?
SM: The design studio has some of my most treasured furniture. It features richly stained oak floors with warm white walls; and high, clean baseboards with trim details at the entry door and archways. Meetings take place in the conference room, at a rosewood Durland table and chairs. In the sitting area, you can curl up on my blue Vintage Womb Chair and Ottoman, or take a seat in my grandfather’s teak-framed sofa with black leather cushions. The walls (showcase) artwork with a pop of color, and the various awards and recognition the firm has earned over the years.
MS: What are some of your favorite elements in your home office?
SM: The custom walnut sit-stand desk, which keeps me moving. My original blue Womb Chair is a great place to curl up.
MS: What inspired you to go into design work?
SM: As a child, I loved watching “This Old House” with my dad. He also showed me how to draw in perspective, and introduced me to a few drafting tools. I was the kid at the checkout asking for the design plan magazines and using them to sketch my personal dream home.
MS: What’s the style in your own home?
SM: Modern with a pop of color, and the repetition of textures and details. Many of my furniture (pieces) and art are selected based on a few simple things, like memories of a loved one or travel.
MS: Do your favorite color choices also transcend to your wardrobe?
SM: I love blue, orange, and apple green, but everything is best in moderation. Navy is a color you can often spot me in. It’s a classic.
MS: You designed quite a few commercial spaces, right?
SM: I started my career designing restaurants, hotels, and corporate spaces. Some well-known projects are the Royal Park Hotel in Rochester, Plum Market in Bloomfield Hills and Ann Arbor (while working at Victor Saroki and Associates), and The Merchants Row in downtown Detroit (while at Kraemer Design Group). Because of this, I have a high standard for lighting design, specifications, drawings, and details that ensure my designs are achieved.
MS: What’s something we wouldn’t find in your home?
SM: A room without multiple lighting levels and options. Lighting is a factor that can’t be ignored.
Read about one of Staci’s featured home projects in the “Beginnings” article in Detroit Design here.
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