Linda Ruderman, president and owner of LRI, Inc. has created interior designs for residential and commercial properties for over 25 years. With a strong expertise in classical interiors, Linda prides herself on her attention to detail and ability to interpret classical models for today’s lifestyles. Her professional success is due to her seemingly uncanny ability to make a design look as though it has always been in its environment.
What’s the first thing you do when you meet with a new client? Ultimately this meeting is an information gathering session for both of us, to lead us into the project. I listen intently to the client about their needs and vision. Then I ask a lot of questions so I can understand how we would work best together to achieve the goals discussed.
What do you wish all prospective clients knew about working with a designer? The bond between a designer and client is very important. In order to have a successful working relationship, you need to trust who you hire. You do not always have to agree, but let the designer take you all the way down the road before you reject the idea. The big picture is always in the designer’s mind.
What’s one thing that would surprise a potential client about working with you? I hope it would be many things, however it always surprises my clients that I am so hands-on with every project. I work very closely with my team down to the smallest detail.
What three pieces should every home have? A beautiful table for dining, a really comfortable sofa for relaxing and a bed that allows you a good night’s sleep.
Where do you like to splurge when decorating a home? Investment pieces mean something different to every client. I think art, carpets and lighting give the most personality to a room. The art and the carpets drive the pop of colors and the lighting, especially when correctly layered, makes everything sparkle.
What are your top three design rules? Don’t count on floor plans being correct, always measure the space. Symmetry—there should always be a hierarchy of element with the room no matter what the design esthetic may be. Scale and proportion are the key to a successful room. Always pay attention to the ceiling and window heights of the room when selecting furniture.
Linda Ruderman Interiors Inc.: 74 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, CT, 203-552-9700
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