The Design Center

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  Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  Join our Community! Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDesignCenter-StudentEdition   

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  Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  Join our Community! Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDesignCenter-StudentEdition   

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  Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  Join our Community! Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/   

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 Want to learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors? Visit her website at, https://g-interiors.com  Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  Join our Community! Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/     

In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee welcomes Andrew Risinger, Co-Owner of Kitchen, Bath, Home in Dallas, and a highly respected leader in the kitchen and bath industry. Andrew is a Certified Master Kitchen & Bath Designer through the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) — and a Certified Remodeler through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). His professional excellence has earned him national recognition, including being named NKBA's 30 Under 30 and a Top 40 Innovator by Kitchen & Bath News — honors that reflect both his technical expertise and forward-thinking approach to design. A true industry advocate, Andrew recently concluded a two-year term as President of the NKBA Texas North Plains Chapter, where he helped strengthen professional standards, mentorship, and community within the design industry. His leadership extends beyond business ownership — he is also shaping the next generation of designers as an instructor of Kitchen & Bath Design at the Heritage School of Interior Design in Dallas. Andrew shares the philosophy behind Kitchen, Bath, Home, and how their East Dallas showroom supports and collaborates with interior designers. Together, they explore innovation in kitchen and bath spaces, the importance of certification and continuing education, and what it takes to build a meaningful, respected career in today's competitive design landscape. Learn more about the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) at https://nkba.org And the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) by visiting https://www.nari.org. Learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors on her website, https://g-interiors.com  Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  Join our Community! Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/     

In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee welcomes Donna Moss, finalist on HGTV Design Star and host of Donna Decorates Dallas. Donna shares her inspiring journey into interior design at age 50 — proving it's never too late to pivot into a creative career. Her experience on Design Star helped launch her path, but she emphasizes that lasting success requires both creativity and strong business skills. Beyond design, Donna is deeply committed to philanthropy. She has helped raise significant funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org) and the Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org), using her platform to create meaningful impact. She also discusses the St. Jude Showplace Homes project, in partnership with Beckett Graham (https://beckettgraham.com) and other builders, which has raised more than $1 million to support St. Jude's mission. In collaboration with the Heritage School of Interior Design (https://www.heritageschoolofdallas.com), Donna mentored students involved in the project — giving them real-world experience while demonstrating how design can serve a greater purpose. To check out Donna's book Best of Show, visit Amazon for your copy! Follow Donna's journey on Instagram: @donnamossdesign or @beckettgrahamhomes Learn more about Christine Gee and G-Interiors on her website, https://g-interiors.com  Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our show!  Join our Community! Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/designcenter.tx/           

In this episode of The Design Center: Student Edition, host Christine Gee of G-Interiors Studio & Design Center welcomes Ginger Hartford, founder of EurDesign Studio and a true master of marketing within the global art and design industry. Ginger most recently served as Head of Design for Dallas Market Center, where she became a trusted champion of luxury media, top designers, and the Dallas design community as a whole. In that role, she helped elevate industry voices, foster meaningful connections, and shape how design brands show up on both national and global stages. Now stepping into an exciting new chapter, Ginger serves as Global Vice President of Marketing, Brand, and Creative for Art Brand Studios, a legacy fine art agency with renowned partnerships including Martha Stewart, Disney, and Art Basel. Her work continues to bridge art, design, and storytelling at the highest level. Fresh from Paris, where she attended Maison & Objet, Ginger brings a truly global point of view to the conversation. Together, Christine and Ginger explore career opportunities in interior design and product development, the value of industry events, and how independent designers can position themselves for long-term success. They also discuss mentorship, networking, personal growth, and the importance of building an authentic brand in a competitive, ever-evolving industry. Listeners are invited to follow Ginger's incredible journey through art, design, and travel on Instagram @eurdesign_studio. Please join us in welcoming Ginger Hartford to The Design Center: Student Edition—an episode packed with insight, inspiration, and real-world guidance for the next generation of designers. Learn more about G-Interiors Studio & Design Center online at https://g-interiors.com

In this podcast, Christine Gee—CEO and founder of G-Interiors Studio & Design Center—opens the door to the real world of interior design and the many paths within it. With 18 years of experience in both residential and commercial design, Christine brings more than expertise—she brings a passion for mentorship. Inspired by her love of teaching and her experience speaking at the Dallas ASID student symposium, she created this podcast to support aspiring designers at every stage, from high school students to career changers. Each episode features conversations with design professionals, educators, industry partners, builders, marketers, and product experts. Listeners will gain honest insight into what it's really like to run a design business, navigate the industry, and build a meaningful career in design. From market leaders in High Point, Atlanta, Dallas, and Las Vegas to organizations like ASID, NKBA, and NARI, Christine connects listeners with voices shaping the future of design. Whether you're exploring interior design for the first time or looking for guidance on your next step, this podcast is your guide to the industry—offering practical advice, real stories, and a supportive community to help you grow. Learn more about us on our website, https://g-interiors.com.