From Dallas Market Center to the Design Community: Michael Bauer's Story

The Art of Window Treatments with Sammi Day

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:547a581c-c793-4639-bea7-3f23b0ec171d-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-WEB:547a581c-c793-4639-bea7-3f23b0ec171d-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with Sammi Day, founder of Day Drapery, to discuss her unexpected path from accounting aspirations to becoming a respected leader in the custom drapery industry. With more than 15 years of experience, Sammi shares how Day Drapery has become a trusted behind-the-scenes partner for interior designers, specializing in high-end custom window treatments. She explains the level of precision, craftsmanship, and attention to detail required to execute luxury drapery projects successfully — from fabric selection and hardware decisions to measurements, installation, and motorization options. Sammi also gives listeners an inside look at the business side of running a custom workroom, including the time-intensive quoting process and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with designers. She emphasizes that professionalism, communication, and reliability are essential in an industry built heavily on referrals and repeat partnerships. Throughout the conversation, Sammi reflects on the growth of her company, the increasing demand for motorized treatments, and the value of networking within the design community. Her insights offer students and emerging designers a realistic look at the collaboration, technical knowledge, and trust required to bring beautiful interiors to life. Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com [https://g-interiors.com/] Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! Join our Community! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/ [https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDesignCenter-StudentEdition [https://www.youtube.com/@TheDesignCenter-StudentEdition]

Inside Heritage School of Interior Design with Founder Kim Bailey

In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, Christine Gee sits down with Kim Bailey, founder of Design Lifestyles and the Heritage School of Interior Design, to discuss her journey and her unique approach to design education. Kim shares how she transitioned from a business administration background into a successful career in interior design, ultimately building both a thriving design firm and a school dedicated to preparing the next generation of designers. She challenges the traditional education model, emphasizing that real-world experience is essential — and that many programs fall short by lacking instructors with true industry backgrounds. At the Heritage School, Kim has created a hands-on learning environment, offering a 12-week foundational program and an advanced master's program. Students gain practical experience through industry visits, workshops, and direct exposure to how the design business actually works. Throughout the conversation, Kim stresses the importance of networking, gaining applicable skills, and getting involved in the industry early. She also highlights the accessibility of her program, which attracts both career changers and recent graduates, along with its strong job placement success. This episode is a must-listen for students and aspiring designers looking for a more practical, experience-driven path into the design industry — and a reminder that success comes from doing, learning, and building real connections along the way. Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at https://g-interiors.com [https://g-interiors.com/] Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! Join our Community! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/ [https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDesignCenter-StudentEdition [https://www.youtube.com/@TheDesignCenter-StudentEdition]

Breaking into the Luxury Appliance Industry with Savannah Lindeau

In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, Christine Gee sits down with Savannah Lindeau, a representative for the luxury appliance brand Signature Kitchen Suite, part of LG Electronics. Savannah shares her unique journey from growing up on a cattle ranch in Nebraska to building a career in the design and appliance industry. She reflects on how her early experiences shaped her strong work ethic, emphasizing the importance of grit, integrity, and a willingness to continuously learn and grow. Her path took a pivotal turn when she began working in Ferguson showrooms, where she discovered her passion for appliances and the role they play in design. Today, she represents SKS, a rapidly growing luxury appliance brand that has expanded its product line significantly in recent years. Savannah also highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and staying curious throughout your career. She shares her commitment to personal and professional development, including pursuing her Executive MBA at Southern Methodist University. This episode is full of encouragement for students and emerging designers — a reminder that career paths aren't always linear, and that success often comes from embracing opportunities, building relationships, and continuing to invest in yourself. Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at, https://g-interiors.com [https://g-interiors.com/] Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! Join our Community! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/ [https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDesignCenter-StudentEdition [https://www.youtube.com/@TheDesignCenter-StudentEdition]

From Dallas Market Center to the Design Community: Michael Bauer's Story

In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee welcomes Michael Bauer, a respected veteran of the interior design industry with decades of experience supporting designers and the trade community. Michael shares highlights from his impressive career, including his time as Vice President of Business Development at the Dallas Market Center and his current role as Director of Trade Relations at Feizy Rugs. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on the importance of building strong relationships within the design industry and supporting professionals at every stage of their careers. Michael has received numerous industry honors, including the Kathy Hammond Industry Partner Award and the American Society of Interior Designers Dallas–Fort Worth President's Award, recognizing his commitment to the design community. A passionate advocate for the next generation of designers, Michael encourages students to actively participate in industry events, network with professionals, and follow their passions as they begin their careers. He also shares his involvement in the Designers for Dogs initiative, which supports fostering and adoption efforts and highlights how the design community can come together to support meaningful causes. This episode offers valuable insight and encouragement for students and emerging designers looking to build lasting careers while making a positive impact in the industry. Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at, https://g-interiors.com [https://g-interiors.com/] Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! Join our Community! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/ [https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/]

Inside the Builder & Designer Partnership with Kristin Mitchell

In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee sits down with Kristin Mitchell, a Builder Sales Representative at Ferguson with more than 30 years of experience in the kitchen and bath industry. Kristin shares her journey from graduating from Texas A&M University to building a long, successful career at Ferguson. She discusses the importance of collaboration between designers, builders, and suppliers, and how her role helps support professionals throughout the design and construction process. A strong advocate for industry connections, Kristin highlights the value of professional organizations such as the American Society of Interior Designers and events like the ASID Student Symposium, where emerging designers can build relationships and learn from experienced professionals. Kristin also shares her involvement in Kips Bay Decorator Show House Dallas, offering insight into how major design projects bring together talent from across the industry. For students and emerging professionals, Kristin's advice is simple: work hard, explore different roles within the industry, and take advantage of training and networking opportunities. She also speaks about the culture at Ferguson and how its strong values and flexibility have allowed her to grow and evolve throughout her career. Learn more about the American Society of Interior Designers or ASID online at https://tx.asid.org [https://tx.asid.org/] Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at, https://g-interiors.com [https://g-interiors.com/] Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show! Join our Community! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/ [https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/]