The latest Cottages & Gardens Interior Designer survey is in! We wanted to conduct a survey to gather information and understand designer’s preferences, priorities, use of resources, social media and their design project activity. However, many of you work with designers, so we thought it was important to let you know what they think about you—their clients. ■ Designers realize how overwhelmed their clients can feel about the design process. That’s where they come in! They get the work done and offer comfortable, stylish interiors, specifically designed to fit your needs and busy lifestyle. ■ However, when their clients have free time, they like to take them along for the ride, visiting resources locally and at various showrooms in New York City. It’s important to keep their clients informed and educated about all of their choices. In my case, I am lucky to see the endless range of furniture, wall coverings, fabrics and home accessories available, but sometimes it can be impossible for me to make a decision without the help of a professional! ■ We also discovered that most designers meet their clients through simple word of mouth—from existing clients (you) and friends. ■ The big change since our last survey in 2010 is the designer’s use of social media, which drives communication, collaboration and expanded sources in projects. Now, more than ever, designers are on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest, and you have chosen to follow and friend them. ■ And to no one’s surprise, we found that design professionals are territorial and protective of their to-the-trade sources (that’s why we call them Trade Secrets!), so that they can provide a unique and fabulous design just for you. ■ There is much more in the survey that is of interest to designers, manufacturers and design centers, and we plan to share with them shortly. ■ I invite all of you to contact me for a copy of the survey.