Shirley Holden, a Smith & Noble in home designer

Each space represents a unique perspective, a new challenge. As a designer I am inspired to create spaces that reflect the highly personalized and individualized lifestyle of my clients, both residential, and commercial. My love of fabric and the historical background relating to the continual evolution of textiles is an ongoing learning process. Having over 40 years of experience sets me apart from the competition. My ability to hone in on a detail and to extrapolate that detail into a design concept is what I do best. Being a visionary helps, too! I completed my training at Ray College of Design, now Illinois Institute of Art, in Interior Design. I later went on to receive Diplomas from San Diego Platt College in Architectural Design & Drafting (AutoCad), as well as Architectural Blueprinting. I studied Architecture at San Diego Mesa College and was Vice-President of the San Diego Mesa College chapter of the American Institute of Architects, where I published a magazine called the Architectural Times, which served to bridge the gap between academia and professional life as a designer. I write a monthly column in a local newspaper called The West Pullman Post, and my work has been featured in The AbQ Times, and The Chicago Defender. I chose Smith & Noble because of the personal experience I have had with the company. The satisfaction guarantee is the best in the industry and their attention to the customer experience is top notch. I was born and raised in Chicago, and in 1980 relocated to the Southwest. I came back to Chicago in 2015 and have been with Smith & Noble since May 2018. Mind you I was being vetted by two other major window covering manufacturers at the same time! I chose Smith & Noble because of their outstanding company culture and their commitment to customers, which is a lost art in today’s time. My hobbies include gardening, reading, and I am a Level I Sommelier and an avid Chef. I am a cabinet maker, as well as a Water Jet Laser Technician. I use water jet technology to produce intricate inlay designs for my clients. It is said that ‘Family and Friends are the gift of life’. It is an honor to be welcomed in to someone’s home and I try to always show the utmost respect and patience with all of my clients. Active listening is key! Welcome to my Houzz Page! Shirley Holden, Smith & Noble In-Home Designer