by Heidi Core

Interior design is the art and science of enhancing the interior of a space to achieve a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing environment. While many people understand the broad strokes of interior design, few truly understand the full range of services an interior designer can provide. 

Heidi H. Core, RID, IIDA, is an accomplished interior designer who has built a successful career in Birmingham, AL, on her ability to transform spaces into beautiful, functional, and comfortable places to call home away from home. With her focus on design for corporate, hospitality, and healthcare settings, she knows the importance of creating a functional space where employees, patients, and guests feel at ease. 

The impact of good interior design can be felt by everyone who enters the space. If you want to work with Heidi Core Interior Design on your next interior design project, contact us via our online form or call (713) 528-7244. Heidi and her team are dedicated to providing personalized design solutions that meet each client’s unique needs, and they would be happy to discuss your project with you!

WHAT IS AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?

The work of an interior designer can be broken down into several phases, including:

THE INITIAL CONSULTATION

During the initial consultation, an interior designer will meet with the client to discuss their needs and preferences. This may involve:

  • Touring the space to be designed
  • Taking measurements
  • Assessing the client’s existing furniture and decor

Heidi Core will also discuss the client’s budget and timeline for the project.

THE DESIGN CONCEPT

Once Heidi understands the client’s needs, she will develop a design concept. This may involve 

  • Creating sketches or 3D renderings of the space
  • Selecting color palettes and materials
  • Identifying furniture and decor that will be incorporated into the design

THE DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

Once the client approves the design concept, Heidi and her team will develop the design details, including: 

  • Creating detailed drawings or plans
  • Selecting specific furniture and decor items
  • Coordinating with contractors and other professionals who will be involved in the project

IMPLEMENTATION

During the implementation phase, Heidi will oversee the installation of the design elements. She will coordinate with contractors, order furniture and decor items, and ensure everything is installed correctly and on time.

THE FINAL TOUCHES

Once the design has been installed, Heidi will add the final touches, such as accessories and artwork, that bring the space to life. This is the phase where the designer can really make the space feel personalized and unique to the client.

HOW DOES HEIDI CORE APPROACH INTERIOR DESIGN?

As an accomplished interior designer, Heidi Core approaches every project focusing on form and function. She works closely with her clients to understand their needs and preferences, then develops designs that meet those needs while staying within the client’s budget. Heidi Core is known for her attention to detail and ability to create warm and inviting spaces in environments where warmth might be an afterthought, like healthcare settings.

Heidi’s design philosophy is centered on believing that good design should be accessible to everyone. She strives to create designs that are not only beautiful but also sustainable and environmentally friendly. Heidi is committed to using eco-friendly materials and practices whenever possible, and she works with clients to create stylish, safe, and sustainable designs.

CORPORATE DESIGN

In corporate design, Heidi Core’s goal is to create spaces that reflect the company’s brand, values, and culture while supporting its employees’ productivity and well-being. She designs spaces that promote collaboration, creativity, and innovation while providing privacy and relaxation areas. From the furniture and lighting to the colors and textures, every detail is carefully considered to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing workspace.

Various scientific aspects ensure that the space is functional and comfortable for the employees, such as:

CORPORATE LIGHTING

Lighting is a crucial aspect of any interior design project, and it becomes even more important in corporate environments where employees spend long hours working indoors. Proper lighting can help reduce eyestrain, headaches, and fatigue while boosting productivity and mood. An interior designer must consider light sources’ natural, artificial, and color temperatures to create an optimal lighting environment for the employees.

Light has a profound impact on our health and well-being, as it helps to regulate our circadian rhythms. Circadian rhythms are the physical, mental, and behavioral changes that occur in a 24-hour cycle and are influenced by environmental cues such as light and darkness. [1]

Research has shown that exposure to natural light during the day can [2]:

  • Improve mood
  • Increase productivity
  • Promote better sleep at night. 

In addition, studies have shown that the type of light we are exposed to can significantly impact our health. For example, exposure to blue-enriched light during the day has been shown to improve cognitive performance. [3]

CORPORATE ACOUSTICS

The sound quality of a space can significantly impact employees’ comfort levels and productivity. Heidi Core needs to consider the building’s architecture, such as ceiling height, walls, and floors, to determine the acoustic performance of the space. Acoustic panels, sound-absorbing materials, and other noise-reducing techniques can be used to mitigate any unwanted noise.

OFFICE ERGONOMICS

Ergonomics is the science of designing equipment and workspaces to fit the user’s needs, capabilities, and limitations. Heidi considers the physical well-being of employees when designing furniture, fixtures, and other elements in the corporate environment to ensure that the employees are comfortable and their posture is supported, which can reduce the risk of injuries and musculoskeletal disorders.

AIR QUALITY

Indoor air quality is critical to any interior design project, especially in corporate environments where employees spend most of their time indoors. Poor air quality can lead to various health issues, including headaches, fatigue, and respiratory problems. [4] An interior designer needs to consider the ventilation system, air filters, and the selection of materials and finishes to ensure that the air quality in the space is optimal.

Considering these scientific aspects, Hiedi Core creates a beautiful corporate environment that functions effectively and supports employees’ well-being.

HOSPITALITY DESIGN

In hospitality design, Heidi Core’s focus is on creating spaces that provide guests with a memorable and enjoyable experience. She designs welcoming, comfortable, and visually stunning hotels, resorts, restaurants, and other hospitality spaces. From the lobby to the guest rooms to the dining areas, every design aspect is thoughtfully curated to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.

The location of a hospitality-based business can have a significant impact on the design of the space. Heidi Core must consider climate, culture, and geography when designing for a specific location. These elements can influence the design and create a unique and authentic guest experience.

For example, if the hotel or restaurant is located in a tropical climate, the design may incorporate natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and stone to create a sense of connection with the surrounding environment. The design may include outdoor spaces, water features, and plenty of natural light to take advantage of the beautiful weather and scenery.

Similarly, the location’s culture can also play a role in the design. The design may incorporate traditional elements such as local art, crafts, and materials if the hotel or restaurant is located in a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. The use of local materials and art can help to create a unique sense of place and connect guests with the local culture.

Moreover, the geography of the location can also influence the design. For example, if the hotel or restaurant is in a mountainous area, the design may incorporate wood, stone, and other natural materials to create a sense of warmth and comfort. The design may also take advantage of the stunning views and incorporate large windows and outdoor spaces to maximize the connection with the natural surroundings.

HEALTHCARE DESIGN

In healthcare design, Heidi Core’s goal is to create spaces that promote healing and well-being for patients while supporting healthcare professionals’ work. She designs functional, safe, and visually appealing hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. From the lighting and colors to the furniture and layout, every detail is considered to create a comfortable and calming space for patients and their families.

Designing for healthcare settings requires careful consideration of patient safety and cleanliness. This is because healthcare environments are high-risk areas where patients with weakened immune systems are at increased risk of infection. To ensure a safe and clean environment, Heidi must consider the following specifics:

MATERIAL SELECTION

Materials used in healthcare settings must be

  • Durable
  • Easy to clean
  • Non-porous to prevent the buildup of bacteria and viruses

Common materials used include vinyl, epoxy, and antimicrobial fabrics.

LAYOUT

The layout of the healthcare facility should be designed to reduce the spread of infection. This includes separating patient areas from staff areas, ensuring adequate hand-washing stations, and creating a flow that minimizes patient and staff cross-contamination.

VENTILATION

Proper ventilation is essential in healthcare settings to control the spread of airborne pathogens. The design should incorporate an efficient HVAC system with adequate filtration and air exchange rates.

LIGHTING

Adequate lighting is important for patient safety and hygiene. The design should include appropriate lighting levels in patient rooms, examination rooms, and other areas to enable staff to see and clean effectively.

TECHNOLOGY

Technology can play an important role in promoting patient safety and reducing the spread of infection. Heidi Core incorporates touchless technologies, such as automatic doors, faucets, soap dispensers, and UV-C disinfection systems.

PRIVACY

Patient privacy is critical in healthcare settings. The design should provide private patient rooms with curtains or doors and separate spaces for consultations, examinations, and treatments.

The level of care and attention to detail that Heidi Core brings to each project is unmatched, and this is particularly important in healthcare settings. The design of healthcare facilities must consider the unique needs of patients, caregivers, and staff while prioritizing cleanliness, safety, and functionality. 

Whether designing a hospital room, a dental clinic, or a rehabilitation center, Heidi approaches each project with the same level of care and attention to detail. She understands the importance of creating spaces that promote healing, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve the overall patient experience.

YOUR CONSULTATION WITH HEIDI CORE

Ready to schedule your initial consultation with Heidi Core? She works closely with each client to understand their unique needs and preferences, ensuring that every design project is tailored to their specific requirements. 

Patients consistently remark that working with Heidi Core is a collaborative and rewarding experience. Her commitment to quality, sustainability, and client satisfaction ensures every project succeeds! 

Contact Heidi Core Interior Design today at (205) 259-8780 to schedule your consultation and transform your space into something truly exceptional.

REFERENCES

  1. Walker WH, Walton JC, DeVries AC, Nelson RJ. Circadian rhythm disruption and mental health. Translational Psychiatry. 2020;10(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-020-0694-0
  2. Blume C, Garbazza C, Spitschan M. Effects of light on human circadian rhythms, sleep and mood. Somnologie : Schlafforschung und Schlafmedizin = Somnology : sleep research and sleep medicine. 2019;23(3):147-156. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11818-019-00215-x
  3. Alkozei A, Smith R, Pisner DA, et al. Exposure to Blue Light Increases Subsequent Functional Activation of the Prefrontal Cortex During Performance of a Working Memory Task. Sleep. 2016;39(9):1671-1680. https://doi.org/10.5665/sleep.6090
  4. Manisalidis I, Stavropoulou E, Stavropoulos A, Bezirtzoglou E. Environmental and health impacts of air pollution: A review. Frontiers in Public Health. 2020;8(14):1-13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2020.00014