Lake Zurich design firm works with residential, commercial clients
An interview with Mollee Johnson, owner of Style 1519 Interior Design in Lake Zurich.
Q: Describe your business. What do you do?
A: Style 1519 is a full service interior design firm offering a unique design experience to both residential and commercial clients. Providing clients with design assistance in paint selection, space planning, custom furniture and window treatments, accessorizing, holiday decorating, kitchen, bath and basement remodels and everything in between. My degree in interior architecture has helped me to not only understand the design aspect of my business but also the architecture side. Because of this, I enjoy working with clients and architects on projects that are not purely cosmetic. Q: What made you start your business?
A: I started my business because I enjoy creating and working with people that need assistance to make their visions come to life.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?
A: Having to learn the business end of what I do. I am a designer first and foremost. By running a small business, I need to oversee the day to day operations of the business, financials, marketing, as well as the needs of my clients.
Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?
A: Above all, I enjoy seeing my clients happiness when the design is complete. I also enjoy having the creative control and ability to make the decisions about where my business is going. I enjoy creating the designs and executing them, but also enjoy the challenges presented to me and working through them to find a solution.
Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young? When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: I knew I would end up in some sort of creative field. Growing up I was surrounded by creativity and, although not trained as a designer, I credit my mom with my passion for design.
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: The list of things that need to get done for clients’ projects.
Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?
A: Spend the time to put the right people in place before you take the leap. Such as an accountant, tax adviser, bookkeeper, and attorney. By having a trusted team on board, you minimize the mistakes and setbacks.
Ÿ Every Monday we feature a small, suburban business. We want to hear about yours. Contact Business Writer Kim Mikus at kmikus@dailyherald.com.
Business: Style 1519 Interior Design
Address: 605 Eric Court, Lake Zurich, Illinois
Owners: Mollee P. Johnson
Year business started: 2009
Web address: www.style1519.com