Fab Interior Designer: Cristi Pettibone of City Chic Design
How did you get into interior design? After graduating from ASU’s Interior Architecture program, I worked for a design firm in L.A. for a bit, came back to the Valley to work for one of the large design firms in town and then started City Chic Design over a decade ago. I’ve always loved being able to impact such an important part of clients’ lives–your home is not only where you spend a majority of your time, but it has the ability to impact your mood, your physical comfort and even your overall mental health.
How has the pandemic affected your industry? Outside of the frustrating delays and increased costs, most designers have been very fortunate that the pandemic has resulted in increased business. Homeowners spent a great deal of time over the last 18 months or so at home, looking around and dreaming of how to make their most important spaces even more functional and beautiful. This has certainly led to a spike in new design projects.
What is your best advice for achieving timeless interior design? Keep any sort of trendiness in your accessories–items you’re easily able to change out as fads come and go. Stick to simple and real materials when it comes to finishes, steering clear of things like “wood” porcelain tile. Be fairly neutral with your larger-scale items and keep bold patterns to a minimum.
Most memorable design project? That has to be the 1938 Lescher & Mahoney Montague House project in the Windsor Square Neighborhood in Central Phoenix. Not only was it a home I purchased personally as a restoration project, but it’s also a historically and architecturally significant building, making it all the more special. While I love an exciting new-build, I definitely have a soft spot for historic Phoenix neighborhoods and their unique and charming older homes.
Tip for a homeowner about to embark on a home design project? There are so many things to consider! Start by gathering all sorts of inspiration photos and make a clear outline of the scope of your project. Come up with a comfortable budget number. Research and meet with a few contractors before pulling the trigger. Last, but not least, meet with a designer. Even if you can’t afford a full-service design package, sit down with someone whose work you admire for a consultation appointment. You’ll likely walk away with a solid direction and some newfound design confidence.
Favorite Arizona-based retailers or home décor brands? Found in Chandler is a fantastic spot to pick up anything from a great coffee table book to a cozy lounge chair for your living room. We buy from many of the same manufacturers for projects, but having their showroom to shop from has been great for last-minute install needs and client gifts.
To learn more, visit www.citychicdesign.com.