Being in the thick of the holiday season, it’s so appropriate that this style file features a talent who knows how to furnish not only a space, but a whole lifestyle. This is what being a “style broker” is all about!
An interior designer, with emphasis on designer, Hasina Starks is one of the area’s most talented when it comes to making all things design coincide with each other. Always having an entrepreneurial spirit, and being a living example of her art, she is St. Louis’ go-to when one wants to swank out their space. Her design talents have now branched out to broader horizons to include fashion and apparel design, as well as body cosmetics.
Danie Rae: When did you know you wanted to be an interior designer?
Hasina Starks: Ever since I was a kid! I always call myself an interior designer/ fashion coordinator. I would always follow behind my mom when she would decorate our home as well as others as just a hobby. It inspired me to make it a career. I’ve always had an entrepreneur spirit because my parents also owned a shoe store back in the day, so it’s always been in my vibration, but I never knew I could do it as a career and be successful.
DR: How long have you been in the business?
HS: Since 2006; so about seven years.
DR: What type of training did you receive in order to prepare you for your craft and the industry of interior design?
HS: I worked in the industry. I did an internship at June Roslyn, an interior designer firm in Westport. I also worked for an affiliate of Home Depot and Dolnick’s, and I soaked up everything they had to offer. But Tennessee State University was where I received my formal education. I actually started off as a marketing major, because I didn’t know they had a design program. But when I switched my major to design I had to take classes in fashion, architecture and interior design. The program was so small, that I had to get exposure to all of the disciplines, and it benefitted me in the long run. So basically, when it’s for you, it’s for you.
DR: How has that led you to start flying solo?
HS: It started in ‘06, when I came out with Imported Designs, which was a boutique furnishings store. But I started Hasina Dezigns in 2011 when I transferred my business to Chicago to branch out and create an umbrella and brand my name to include my clothing line, Desigual, and my body cosmetic line, also called Hasina Dezigns. I try to ensure that I follow my motto, “Everything that you do should be for the mind, body and soul.”
DR: What influences, if any, do you take from the fashion world when creating designs?
HS: I take on the style and the look of the client and implement that into their space. A client’s style is their own customization, and their interiors should complement that style. That’s why I say that it’s important to have your overall look together. You should dress the part and feel good about what you got on. And your interior space should be a reflection of you.
DR: How important is the Feng Shui of a space?
HS: When you’re aligned within yourself, you are aligned with your center core. And that should be where you’re aligned with within your home environment. There are different textures that coincide with your inner and outer alignment that all contribute to your feng shui. Your home should be the first thing you invest in. Your environment sets your mode for your overall mood. Investing in your interior should be a priority. A lot of people neglect their environment, and it shows an overall dysfunction. You are what you are in your environment. Many people watch HGTV and get caught up in these cookie cutter homes, but it’s about customizing your space for you.
DR: When it comes to the opposite sex, how important is it for him to have a stylish crib?
HS: Very!!! Guys should have throw rugs, nice comfortable sofas, and please, men, get an entertainment system for your TV, instead of hanging that TV on the wall exposing all of the wires. Just tacky!
DR: What’s your typical client consultation consist of?
HS: I actually interview my client. I see the space they want to design, and I go through a list of personal questions to get to know them better. And I actually end up becoming friends with my clients. They are so amazed at how accurate I am when it comes to honing in on their design specifics of their homes. Because you have to get into the client’s needs, wants and learn their lifestyle to create an overall look for them.
DR: Any last advice or words for the reader who might be interested in getting into the design world?
HS: I would say with my experience and being back and forth from the Chicago and the St. Louis market, you have to be dedicated to what you do and have perseverance, faith and patience, honey.
To get more information on Hasina Dezigns, visit www.hasinadezigns.com or call 314-276-6209.
