2020 Customer Spotlight
Maria Humphrey, winner of the 2020 Design Inspiration Awards in the 360 Panorama category, has always had a passion for being creative and for mathematics. Designing kitchens and living spaces brings those two aspects together as she scales and puzzles together different pieces to create a functional and unique space for her clients.
In University, Maria studied media and communications, which developed her understanding in design, marketing, media, and many other areas. Upon graduation in 2014, she began to work in graphic design, specifically web design and print marking.
Maria developed her photography skills and computer editing and writing skills in this industry. While designing in 2D, she began to realize this process wasn’t giving her enough reward to feel fully passionate about it. “My passions and hobbies consist of things I can physically grasp and experience,” says Maria, “like photography, upholstery projects, and being in the outdoors. I love to build and create and try new things to keep me from becoming bored with a single hobby.”
After some time exploring her passions, Maria had an opportunity with Livwell Collective to learn 2020 Design, apply her creativity with a 3D output, and work in a position where there is a constant change in project type.
“I enjoy that Livwell Collective takes projects from start to finish,” explains Maria. While designing kitchens, baths, and living spaces, she can apply her love of learning, she can try new styles, and she can positively affect someone’s everyday life and function in their home. “There is always something new I am striving to learn,” says Maria, “and seeing a finished home and the joy on a client’s face is highly rewarding in this process.”
Question & Answer Session
About the Designer
Maria Humphrey
Livwell Collective
Favorite paint color:
Benjamin Moore’s 2055-10 Teal
Stonington Gray HC-170 
Favorite book:
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
Favorite design style:
Modern/contemporary
Favorite designer:
Andrew Macintosh
Quote that inspires you:
“Simplicity is the ultimate form of sophistication.” — Leonardo Da Vinci
When did you start using 2020 Design and what were some of your reasons for choosing that software?
I started working with 2020 Design early fall 2017. I chose it because of the variety of catalogs and the focus on interior spaces. I love that I can add and change patterns and the 3D rendering quality is one of the best I’ve come across. I like that I can create elevations, renderings and take notes all in one place.
What are some of the most helpful features you use in 2020 Design and why?
I find the 3D rendering the most helpful. It can be viewed in line drawing or with color and this helps to showcase the features of a space.
What has been your experience working with 2020?
Support and training with 2020 have been useful to answer questions or help when the program isn’t responding the way I need it to. Support has been reasonably quick at answering questions and problem-solving in these areas.
What was the inspiration behind the design you submitted for the 2020 contest?
I was inspired by the contrasting elements of wood, concrete and metal, which can create both a rustic or industrial feel. I wanted to create an open, inviting space that had a more modern feel with these textures hinting at the industrial look. Pieces of the design were inspired by spaces I have seen and admired through my research process.
Describe your creative process. What questions do you ask your clients? Where do you get your inspirations from?
Part of designing a space that a client will love is understanding who they are, their lifestyle and any “must-haves” in their dream space. Getting to know a client and connecting with them on more than just a temporary working relationship is often the key to designing something they love and appreciate. Each design space presents different challenges and ideas as no two are the same. The entire layout of a house including the dining area, living room, and main walkways all inspire how a kitchen is designed and created as a room that offers an experience.
Do you design spaces other than kitchens and bathrooms?
Yes, although the focus is on kitchens. Bathrooms, closets, living rooms, offices, and cinema/library rooms are all areas I have worked on.
Do you use any 2020 Cloud decorative items?
I use things like laundry baskets and TVs. I use many items from the furniture and decoration catalogs such as bottles, couches, and stools.
What are some of your favorite catalogs to use in your design projects?
My favourite catalogs are the Furniture, Room, and Wolf catalogs.
Which catalogs were used in the design you submitted for this contest?
I used the Furniture, Decorations, Task Lighting, Blanco, and Sub-Zero catalogs.
What guidance would you provide to any designer who is considering 3D CAD tools for interior design?
For any client, a 3D color rendering greatly enhances their visualization and understanding of a project. There is nothing greater than seeing a space and having samples of the product to help get a client onboard with an idea.
Tell us something unusual that has happened in your career.
Getting to where I am today in my career has been the most unexpected and most rewarding experience. I never specifically dreamt of designing kitchens and spaces, but looking back on my life, I can see how so many little experiences fed into my passion and skill for what I do now. The support of my family, friends and coworkers have been influential in my capabilities and ability to learn this program and deliver quality designs. This has kept me motivated to learn as much as I can and to continue in this line of work.
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