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“Its funny how we all find our avenues” says Suzanne Furst, who found her calling as an interior designer while remodeling her own home. Today, the New York City native specializes in residential design from concept to completion. All of her projects provide a sense of warmth, serenity, and balance while strictly adhering to the adage that form follows function.

Working in all styles (Old World, Zen contemporary, Retro Modern, Far Eastern, Shabby Chic- “you name it, I’ve done it,” she says), Suzanne weaves a common thread through all of her interiors: comfort and a sense of well-being and continuity between the spaces. She loves her work and above all else thrives in the face of a design challenge.

Extremely detail oriented and with the objective of meeting client’s specific tastes, much of her work is custom, from cabinetry to furniture and upholstered pieces to draperies and bedding. For exemple, for her own home, responding to the need for more light in her living room, she designed etched-glass murals permanently set into a curved wall and lit on both sides with fiber optics. The continuing landscape is a practical work of art.

Throughout her 20-year career, Suzanne has balanced her professional life with community service. Her pro bono work for various healthcare facilities, including USC Children’s Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House in Hollywood, has been a calming force for those in need of medical assistance. Most recently the former president of the LA Chapter of ASID spearheaded the Design Showcase at Greystone Mansion, which was fueled by her desire to help restore a landmark estate and educate the general public on the important contributions of the interior design industry. In a similar vain, she was a participant in the first Ecological Showcase House in Los Angeles.

Q&A, more about Suzanne

What personal indulgence does Suzanne spend the most money on?

A woman of many interests, Suzanne refuses to pick a favorite extravagance. “I like to have an open mind and follow what inspires me at the time” she says.

She will admit, however, to a particular passion for traveling the globe and exploring the lifestyles and cultures of other countries. Her travels often guide her creativity.

What color best describes her and why?

Strong and vibrant, turquoise most reflects Suzanne’s nature.

What other publications have featured her work?

Suzanne’s projects have been published in numerous magazines and tabletop books, most recently Los Angeles Magazine, Elle Décor and California Homes.

Additionally, she appeared on HGTV’s Designers’ Challenge, in an episode that continues in rotation, Chris Lowell’s Interior Motives and Malibu Lifestyles, featuring beach home design. She has written articles for the Los Angeles Times and the Beverly Hills Courier.