Rising Stars: Meet Merve Krenzke of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Merve Krenzke.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I studied Architecture and Interior Design at Otis College of Art and Design. After graduating, I spent ten years working at award-winning architecture and interior design firms, where I had the opportunity to work on a range of high-end residential projects. which set the foundation for my career in high-end residential design. On the side, I also took on independent projects, gradually building my client base. As those projects became more substantial, I felt it was the right time to focus fully on my practice. Starting my firm was a natural next step for me, something I had always envisioned for myself. I believe in creating opportunities that align with your passion, and for me, that meant building something of my own.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running your own business definitely has its ups and downs. Having full responsibility for your projects is incredibly rewarding, you get to shape the vision from start to finish and see your ideas come to life. But with that comes a lot of liability. You’re responsible not only for your own decisions, but sometimes for mistakes made by others, which can be a scary thought, especially when legal risks are involved. One of the biggest challenges is keeping a steady flow of work. You need to constantly be bringing in new projects while managing the ones already on your plate, and all the while making sure your current clients are happy. It’s a balancing act, but one that comes with a lot of growth and satisfaction if you’re passionate and persistent.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in high-end residential interior design, with a strong focus on detail and customization tailored to each client. My work is highly personalized, we can create just about anything, thanks to the network of skilled millworkers and furniture makers I collaborate with around the world. What sets me apart from other designers is that I don’t approach projects with a fixed aesthetic. Instead, I start by understanding the client’s taste and build the design around their style, offering ideas and solutions that are both elevated and cohesive. I believe a good designer should be able to design for anyone, not just within a specific look or trend.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
If you can find a mentor, that’s incredibly valuable. Having someone with experience to learn from or work under can make a big difference in your growth. I didn’t have a mentor myself, and I often wish I had. A true mentor needs to invest their time and energy in you, and not everyone is willing or able to do that. I got to where I am by working hard and staying curious. I had a strong desire to learn and grow, not just as a designer but as a person. I constantly asked questions and made an effort to learn from everyone around me, from the office manager to the principal, and the interns. There’s always something new to learn, and you should never underestimate what someone can teach you, regardless of their title or position. Working in a collaborative environment is key. Design is a team effort, and when you’re open to learning from others, you’re always evolving.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cielinteriors.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cielinteriors
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ciel-interiors-los-angeles

Image Credits
Zum Studio