Today we’d like to introduce you to Mia Johnson.
Hi Mia, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
Looking back, I have always been a Creative. I never dreamed I could make a career by doing something I enjoy so much. My first professional project was a 44,000 sq ft Commercial space. My initial role was as the Project Manager. There was a cooperate designer but no creativity; it was strictly by the book. I ended up designing the space, reimagining the large break room (picture bright green wall with black & white checked board flooring, all the leadership offices, the cubicles, the whole thing. I’ll never forget my excitement, looking at the samples, reading the blueprints, and pitching the new designs. It was exhilarating. You’d think the following line in my story would be I opened my design firm and have been in business since 2009. However, that isn’t the case. I looked at that opportunity as my big Project Manager break, and it was. That experience led to great things in the cooperate world. Again, I never dreamed of being a designer or “Creative”. Fast forward 10yrs, my husband and I had started our family and bought our 1st home, and the pandemic was looming. I completed several spaces and started documenting the design of our home on social media. My husband encouraged me to start a blog. People were constantly asking me if I could help them with their homes. With support from my family and one new client, I started Mia Johnson Home, which is now Mia Johnson Interior Design. My firm offers eDesign and Full-Service Design packages. I have had the honor of working with over 20 clients. I am still learning and growing every day. It isn’t easy, but it is so worth it. Seeing people react to their spaces, enjoy them, and make a difference in their lives is fantastic.
Hiring an Interior Designer is not cheap, it is definitely a luxury service. However, part of the mission statement of my company is “Budget alone shouldn’t dictate a beautiful home” I am constantly in search of ways to help people elevate their spaces. I would design for free if I were in the position to do so. So that is my story and I hope I can be part of family’s stories…
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been a smooth road. One of the biggest struggles designers have is the business side, we want to make beautiful and functional spaces, many of us didn’t start out to be Entrepreneurs. So, sticking that balance is definitely a struggle. Also, only 3% of Interior Designers are black so it can feel isolating, but things are changes, and companies, vendors, suppliers are recognizing the need to be inclusive.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an Interior Designer. I specialize in Full-Service & eDesign. I am known for educating people and clients on how to make their spaces functional & beautiful. I have done lots of bedrooms over the last year but a goal of mine this year was to get into the Kitchen & Bath space, and I have 4 kitchen & bath projects this year.
What sets me apart from others are my people skills. As the saying goes “I do not meet a stranger”. I take a genuine interest in people, and they feel comfortable with me.
I am proud of just being in business. It is for sure a struggle but to say I get to do this every day makes me proud. The fact my daughter says, “My mom is a designer” just warms my heart.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
My honesty, transparency, and people skills. Of course, my ability to design and after talking to a client and understanding their needs, I can visually see a completed space. The look on their face when they see the rendering and say “this is my house” is very rewarding.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.miajohnsoninteriordesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miajohnsonhome/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MiaJohnsonInteriorDesign/
Image Credits
Jason Maas
Erica Crosby
Wayman Goodwin
