Conversations with Roberta Murray

Today we’d like to introduce you to Roberta Murray.

Hi Roberta, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am a single mother of 2 and an Interior Architect of an intimate Design firm called Studio r. I started Studio r 26 years ago while I was still working for Architects- in college and directly out of college like my brother at Chambers & Murray, Jim Eserts and Gabbay Architects. I gradually took on side projects while studying under these fantastic Architectural companies and was blessed for those Clients to then refer me – which then grew large enough to take the leap at 25 years old to start my own business. Studio r is a design-concept powerhouse specializing in full service Interior Architecture and Interior Design for residential and commercial projects. I was classically trained in Interior Architecture, graduated from Woodbury University in Burbank but also by working as an Architect, learning from some of the best. This is what makes Studio r different from other Interior Design Companies. We create comprehensive interior packages that seamlessly integrate with the home’s architecture each with a unique timeless design aesthetic. Studio r projects include and vary from Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Architecture and some include the Hardscape and landscape as well – attending to the smallest details and delivering a complete package that is aesthetically pleasing for years to come.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I think a lot of people underestimate the Interior Design Field in general. It is not just about the talent of picking out a paint color or some furniture and having fun, there is a lot of detail work that goes into a custom curated space. Don’t get me wrong, I love what I do- the creative side of it is exciting and fun but there is SO much more to this business. Interior Design firms face hurdles like balancing creative vision with structural realities, coordinating and communicating with contractors and subcontractors, upfront capital to purchase or customize, supply chain demands, managing client budgets and client communications. I specifically chose to be more of a residential designer because I like the one-on-one design and becoming a part of a family’s story- designing for their personal needs and wants. The true hurdles in this business can be that we are a luxury service- clients often underestimate the time cost and complexity of design work. They change their minds or attempt to cut the designer out of the process midway with all the new technology of being able to source similar items on your phone or their friend suggests something else. Our sources and contacts built over the years are important to successful designs. The best projects are when your Client believes in what you bring to the table and trusts that your collaboration with them will create the best results for their home. 26 years, I have gone through a lot of struggles in this business – it is a fine balance between creative, business and the client’s personal life. At times making sure that you are paid for your time spent as a luxury service can be extremely difficult and frustrating, some clients don’t realize the hours that are spent behind the scenes developing the end results with you, the vendors and subcontractors. It is a special service to develop the house your client desires, create the end product and see your Client excited to have the luxury of being the Owner of such a space without knowing the true turmoil of any project issues. Interior Design and Architecture is an extremely rewarding career and that has allowed me to create beautiful spaces and the freedom to raise my kids (bringing them along to some jobsite meetings – at times needed)

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Specializing in residential design mainly, the firm’s portfolio encompasses remodels, new construction and curated decor. The signature approach lies in the ability to merge traditional influences with contemporary sensibilities, producing interiors that are at once playful, polished and enduring. Gathering recognition for being inclusive of items that clients like or want – I am not there to force you to start completely with a clean slate – if there is a family antique, piece of art or a material that means something to my client we will figure out a way to incorporate it into the new version of the house. Perhaps reenvisioning how that item lives in the space, redeveloping its style or purpose. It is a home with a story to tell, and I am helping you create and define that story in your space which shows the lifestyle of my client – how they operate on a daily basis and how they want to entertain. It is essential to develop an overall sense of harmony and timelessness. I am proud of how each project turns out and how each one shows the personality of the owners. Providing a refined and sophisticated custom design specifically for each Client and their environment. Most importantly, I also take great pride in the lasting relationships I build with my clients, which often extend well beyond the completion of a home and continue into future projects with them or referrals to family and friends. I have had the privilege of working with some clients for 15 years or more, while others have continued to refer me throughout their families over the years and this is how the company has survived for 26 years. I am grateful for each project and each client.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I would say that growing up I enjoyed the details in all design and creativity. I grew up in a creative household and was fortunate to also live in a neighborhood or time where you could be free to play whether it was creating shows in the basement, building cities out of Legos or creating mud houses in the woods or snow igloos. I would say I loved imaginary scenarios and being a little fancy (even though I was slightly a tom boy as well) I really enjoyed playing dress up, re-arranging a room, pretending to be a decorator or a fashion designer. I grew up with a strong appreciation for creativity, design and the importance of home. From an early age, I was drawn to spaces, architecture and the way thoughtful design can shape how people feel and live every day. Appreciation for beauty, uniqueness and wanting to create which lead me to Interior Design and Architecture – it is a nice balance between developing spaces that awaken emotions and then also order, structure and function.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.studiorhome.com
• Instagram: @Studiorhome
• Facebook: Studio r
• Youtube: @RobertaMurray-Studior

Image Credits
Hugo Garcia