DESIGN MUSE Podcast

In a world where notifications never stop, inboxes are overflowing, and “being available” has become the norm, creativity is paying the price.

This week on DESIGN MUSE, Bridget Santos and Melanie Hanna, unpack the hidden creative toll of constant connectivity in the interior design industry. From hustle culture and client expectations to instant responses and burnout, this conversation explores what designers are sacrifi...

In this engaging episode, we delve into the world of design with Angel Gonzales, a Regional Resource Director at Gensler Dallas. Angel shares his inspiring journey in the design industry, highlighting his unique role at Gensler. He discusses the importance of collaboration, communication, and mentorship, emphasizing how these elements drive innovation and growth within the industry.  Angel passionately advocates for sustainabi...

In this episode of DESIGN MUSE podcast, Scott Birdsong and Rob Barganier with Tangram Interiors discusses the integration of technology in design, the challenges faced by technology consultants, and the evolution of meeting spaces.  They emphasize the importance of early involvement in projects, the role of AI in enhancing workplace technology, and the significance of data-driven design decisions. The conversation also touches...

In this episode of the DESIGN MUSE Podcast, Vito F. Lotta and Jon Cakert explore vicarious hospitality—the power of shared experiences. Drawing from their personal journeys and leadership roles, they discuss designing for emotion and memory, the value of collaboration, and navigating challenges such as renovations, ROI, brand identity, advocacy for the hospitality industry, and ever-evolving guest expectations. 

Thank you...

In this episode of DESIGN MUSE, Melanie Hanna and Bridget Santos pull back the curtain on the art and science of restaurant design. From spatial flow and storytelling to lighting, materials, and sensory cues, they explore how every element shapes the dining experience. Discover how collaboration between designers, consultants, and restaurateurs brings a restaurant’s vision to life — and how thoughtful design can transfo...

So you want to start a podcast—but where do you even begin?

In this episode, co-hosts, Bridget and Melanie, pull back the curtain on the journey of launching DESIGN MUSE —from napkin sketch ideas to a full-fledged podcast. They’re sharing the real story: what worked, what didn’t, what tech and tools helped them get off the ground, and the creative (and emotional) lessons they’ve learned along the way.

If...

In this episode of DESIGN MUSE, we’re joined by the Patchwork Picasso, Kyle Bunting, for a candid conversation about the power of branding, the art of collaboration, and what it really takes to stand out in the design world. 

Kyle shares what fuels his creative journey and why finding your unique voice is the foundation of any successful brand. With his signature humor, he explores how a strong brand presence is built not...

In this episode of the DESIGN MUSE Podcast, Bridget Santos and Melanie Hanna delve into the intricate world of Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) in interior design. They explore the multifamily, corporate, and hospitality sectors, discussing the proposal process, budgeting strategies, sourcing and procurement, and the unique challenges each sector presents. The conversation emphasizes the importance of organization, col...

In this episode, DESIGN MUSE has RFI Time with Jessica Collins. An RFI in Interior Design is formally known as a "Request for Information" which is a request for formal clarification or additional information on a project's plans, drawings, specifications, or agreements. DESIGN MUSE uses RFI Time to obtain additional wisdom from our Muse of the Month. 

You won't want to miss this episode as we dive into questions regarding how ...

In this episode, DESIGN MUSE interviews Jessica Collins (the Director of Design, Interiors for HOK Dallas' Studio) and dives into the true essence of commercial interior design, the design process, neuroinclusive design, and the visibility of the interior design profession. We also discuss what a Director of Design's day to day consists of and hot topics like "the great move."

We would like to thank Jessica Collins for sharing her b...

In this episode, DESIGN MUSE has RFI Time with Kristina Fischer. An RFI in Interior Design is formally known as a "Request for Information" which is a request for formal clarification or additional information on a project's plans, drawings, specifications, or agreements. DESIGN MUSE uses RFI Time to obtain additional wisdom from our Muse of the Month. 

You won't want to miss this episode as we dive into questions regarding com...

In this episode, DESIGN MUSE interviews Kristina Fischer, Development and Construction Manager for Toll Brothers Apartment Living, to explore her journey from the world of design to development. Kristina shares insights on navigating early career challenges, how networking and relationships shaped her career, her transition to Multifamily Development, and valuable lessons learned along the way. We learn how developers build budgets...

In today's episode, Bridget Santos and Melanie N. Hanna introduce the ethos of DESIGN MUSE Podcast. They share their individual interior design journeys, how they met, and how they reconnected thirteen years later with the shared vision and passion to make a big impact on the commercial interior design industry. 

They walk through upcoming episode topics such as lessons learned, documentation, storytelling through desig...