Interior designer Lisa Spray loves both the challenges and rewards that come with reimagining rooms to be energizing and attractive.
“Our spaces influence our emotions and our mindsets so much. And you get to determine what that is by how you design it,” Lisa said.
From a calming sanctuary to a laid-back vacation vibe to an energetic space set up for family fun, Lisa knows that with careful planning our homes can be exactly what we need them to be.
“Creating a place that’s beautiful affects your mindset,” explained Lisa. “Is it a place that kids want to gather and families want to come? And are you somebody that’s open to that entertaining spirit, and what that brings to you and fulfills you in your life? Or maybe you have a very stressful job, and you want to come home and relax in a sanctuary-like space. There are just so many ways to set the tone of our spaces.”
Lisa is aware of how stressful building a home or remodeling can be, especially since it requires an overwhelming number of choices to make. Hiring a professional designer brings a trained eye to the project, skill to select the right combination of materials, and the knowledge to avoid costly mistakes.
“I enjoy the process of it, and I love getting to know people,” she added. “I also think design should be fun, and I try to remind my clients to be open. We make plans, but something will always come up and we’ll have to pivot. But more times than not, it turns out to be a great thing.”
Staying away from trends that come and go, Lisa’s design style encompasses an elevated, classical look. “I think one of my superpowers is I have an eye for quality. I gravitate to those things and I just know when something’s going to look good. And while I do like a more elevated look, it’s always approachable and cozy,” she said.
From a memorable Island Park cabin with 360-degree views of the lake to a complete renovation for a daughter inheriting her parent’s home, Lisa is thrilled with the challenges and growth opportunities that come with a design project.
“I loved designing showrooms because they would come out with new things twice a year,” stated Lisa. “The design industry is very similar to fashion, and it was exciting to get the sales staff excited about everything new coming in.”
Eventually, she convinced her husband to move back to her hometown where they could enjoy the slower pace of life and she could start her own design business. For the last 12 years, LJC Interiors (LJCinteriordesign.com) has handled both commercial and residential projects, and has recently built up a large client base in Island Park and Driggs. While many of her projects require travel, she’s still able to enjoy a flexible work schedule and virtual meetings with clients.
Lisa and her family love the community of Idaho Falls, as well as the fun opportunities to explore the outdoors. They enjoy hiking, skiing, and four-wheeling, or as Lisa says, “I like any opportunity where I can get my family outside and away from electronics.”
When they first moved back to Idaho, they spent a memorable summer vacation at a cabin in Island Park and were awed by the abundant wildlife, quiet spaces, and lack of overcrowding Lisa said, “I thought of how much I’d missed this. There’s not a thousand people in this one spot and I can actually enjoy nature as it’s intended to be.”
Another thing she’s enjoyed about being back in Idaho Falls is reconnecting with classmates and seeing the amazing ways they’ve built up the community.
“I love seeing how former classmates have stepped back into our community and played a huge part in making it a better place. It gives me a wonderful sense of pride. It’s really fun for me to see the contribution to our beautiful city that people have made. I love it,” she concluded.
