Meet Alexandra Peck | Founder & Principal Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexandra Peck and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexandra, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
When I share that I’m an interior designer most people assume that I am simply a decorator (which, in and of itself, is far more complicated and involved than those outside our industry could ever imagine). While I do fully furnish, decorate, and style every project, my background of 13+ years in the industry is deeply rooted in interior architecture and construction.

Though my specific experience and expertise are unique, all interior design professionals bring so much more than their creativity to the table. We must wear countless hats to orchestrate each project and pull off the “magic” that is design. Example responsibilities include:

Adept Communicator & Intuiter — Critical to the success of a project is the ability to thoroughly communicate with our clients as well as our trusted contractors, vendors, artisans, and fabricators. Actively listening to our clients’ needs, intuiting their desires from unspoken cues, and then reflecting our understanding is imperative to ascertain clarity. Furthermore, it is imperative that we clearly communicate with our clients what they should expect at every phase of the project putting them at ease with full confidence in our stewardship.

Investment Advisor & Financial Manager — Design projects are a short-term investment with a long-term ROI. To manage the financial impact of design, we define our clients’ priorities, outline the investment required to achieve their desired goals, and then expertly guide them where to invest and where to save, ensuring confidence in their financial decisions.

Resource Connoisseur & Procurement Expert — Experienced interior designers know exactly where to source unique pieces, materials, and artisanal work. We have an extensive network of suppliers and fabricators whom we call upon to bring the design vision to life. We ensure the process of procuring all goods for the project goes smoothly, from coordinating deliveries to overseeing thorough installation on site.

Team Leader & Project Manager — Throughout the project we’re leading and managing a diverse team of contractors, architects, and other specialists as well as collaborating with vendors and fabricators to ensure everyone is working towards the same project goals and design vision. The design and construction process is extremely involved, and to deliver seamless results, we must also coordinate multiple moving parts, schedules, and deliveries.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I offer a full A-to-Z design service beginning with defining the look and feel for each project, developing the architectural floor plans, and guiding my clients through every step of the construction process, then finishing fully furnishing, decorating, and styling for a complete transformation. 

In addition to private residences I also design retail spaces and boutique hospitality projects (hotels, restaurants, cocktail lounges). Two favorite projects of mine are the Soho House Nashville and The Pinch hotel—a boutique property in Charleston, SC. I enjoy designing a variety of project types and sizes; it keeps my business fresh and my mind continually swirling with new ideas! No matter the project, I’m dedicated to delivering one-of-a-kind design solutions that stand the test of time and are tailored to each client’s unique aspirations and requirements.

My design process and aesthetic are informed by my personal experiences and travels across the globe.  I grew up traveling abroad with my parents and it is a passion integral to my core. I am deeply moved by the historic buildings and the surrounding city or landscapes, as well as the unique culture, cuisine, and music of each place I visit.

I approach design as a sensory exploration, drawing inspiration from everything I see, hear, smell, taste, and touch. I am truly in awe of nature’s beauty and am endlessly inspired by the colors, shapes, shadows, and textures I witness. Similarly, a scent that floats past me in the air or the flavors in a scrumptious meal will transport me back to a memory and can trigger brilliant new ideas.  Equally, I am inspired by melodies not only because I am a dancer but because I can really feel each note and am moved by the composition. To me, everything is connected and I feel that good design lights up each of our senses.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One aspect of Southern California I’ll never tire of is the beautiful Spanish Mission architecture; the style is quintessentially Californian. I’m a history buff and love nothing more than buildings with a rich past. One such building in San Diego is the Mission San Luis Rey which blends Spanish colonial and Baroque styles and features an iconic scalloped adobe facade with hand-carved wood doors, beautiful arched details, and hand-painted murals throughout.

San Diego also has some of the best restaurants in all of Southern California (which is saying something coming from a New Yorker turned Angeleno). In my opinion, Oceanside and Carlsbad are home to the majority of these stand-outs. Dija Mara, Jeune et Jolie, Matsu, Lilo, and Campfire are most notable and cherished favorites of mine.

Every time I visit San Diego I spend as much time as possible soaking up the absolutely stunning ocean views. I’m fortunate to have experienced several very special sunsets on the beaches of Del Mar and La Jolla. Candidly, I’m a nature lover and love being active, so when I can combine both of these passions I am thrilled. Even if you’re not much into hiking, I highly recommend exploring the beautiful nature reserve at Torrey Pines; it is truly magical.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Building my business has been an adventure but I like a good challenge as it is essential to growth and resilience! Surrounding myself with incredible advisors and building a supportive team has been the key to my success. I want to shine a light on several coaches and mentors who have transformed my business.

Kara Duffy, a keen strategist and the founder of the Powerul Ladies Podcast, defined my standard operating procedures and financial forecasting as well as aided me in developing a phenomenal team of support staff. Danielle Sunberg, a TEDx peaker and the award-winning author of the book: Atlas of Being, helped me clarify what direction I’d like to pursue with my business as well as reshaped my mindset and fostered my understanding of the unique value and talent I bring to my clients.

I’ve been consulting with Melissa Galt for several months and am so grateful for her mentorship. Melissa has been an incredible advisor and sounding board, sharing success tips from her experience of 25+ years in the business. Similarly, I’m thankful to have connected with Genevieve Trousdale, an exceptional designer and the founder of a tight-knit community of interior designers: Circaphiles. Genevieve is lovely person all around and has become a good friend of mine, in addition to mentor. I greatly appreciate the events that Genevieve organizes for all Circaphiles members and the opportunity to connect with and learn from peers. The ability to discuss challenges and share tips with fellow talented designers is priceless.

Lastly, I have to put the spotlight on my team, whom I am eternally grateful for! From my bookkeeper and operations manager to my publicist, social media manager, graphic designer, and design support staff each team member is critical to the success of my business. Thank you all!

Website: https://www.alexandrapeck.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandrapeckdesign/

Image Credits
Dave Grit, Sarah Voight, Christian Harder, Catherine Wilborne, Mary Craven