EP 455 | Solutions, Not Options with Laura Stein

November 18, 2025

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Solutions. That’s what your client is looking for. But too often, designers with the best of intentions, bring them options, not solutions, In this episode, we talk about how to lead with authority, how to close the gap between the clients you dream of and the clients you have and how to lean into your expertise. Let’s talk about why narrowing your focus and standing firmly behind your design choices builds trust, saves time, and elevates your client relationships 

In this episode we learn:

  • clients want solutions, not a buffet of options
  • stand confidently behind your design choices
  • align your brand voice with your ideal client
  • ask questions to uncover true motivations
  • build systems and hire to complement your weaknesses
  • focus on guiding, not overwhelming, your clients

 

DESIGN INTERVENTION

20 years ago, when I was just starting out, I was in one of Kimberley’s first BOD™ seminars. A gentleman at the front stood up and told a story about having a celebrity client. He was so nervous about making sure his client liked the design that he brought multiple options to show for each selection. He laid everything out on the table, but rather than being happy with all the work he had done, his client reprimanded him and said, “I’m not paying you for options. I’m paying you for solutions.”

 

WATCH ON YOUTUBE

 

About Laura Stein

Laura started her design firm 20 years ago from a spare bedroom in her parents’ house and grew into an internationally recognized, award-winning firm. With a background in branding and marketing communications, and two decades leading her namesake firm, Laura brings a rare blend of creative expertise and strategic insight. In 2025, she launched LSI Workshop with a redirected focus toward giving back to the design community and helping other designers create meaningful impact through their work.

www.laurasteininteriors.com

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Thank you to our sponsor, Renewal By Andersen!

Renewal by Andersen LLC is the start-to-finish window and door replacement division of Andersen Corporation. Renewal by Andersen offers a replacement process that includes an in-home consultation, custom manufacturing, and installation through one of the largest nationwide networks of window and door replacement specialists.

For a complimentary in-home consultation, or to learn more, visit www.renewalbyandersen.com.

Apply for Renewal by Andersen’s Interior Designer Loyalty Program today at www.renewalbyandersendesigners.com.

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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used for any legal decisions. Kimberley Seldon Design Group, Kimberley Seldon Productions Inc., Kimberley Seldon Design and Media, Inc., Business of Design™, or any of its affiliated companies or staff is not responsible for any errors or omissions effecting accuracy in any content, and they will not be held liable for the use or misuse of information, facts, details or any other aspects should there arise any defects, errors, omissions or perhaps inaccuracies. Extensive research has been conducted to put this podcast together for the purpose of educating our industry in order to better serve the public. Care has been taken to acknowledge ownership of copyrighted material. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for every situation. This work is offered with the understanding that we do not render any legal, accounting or other professional advice. Seek the advice of a lawyer and/or other competent professional person in all matters of law. Further, listeners should be aware that internet websites mentioned may change or disappear between when this was recorded and when it was listened to.

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