Designer Q&A
Urban Chic
Victoria Harrison Takes Loft Design to a Whole New Level
BY
Susan Newman
PHOTOGRAPHY
Colin Miller/Stauss Peyton

After working in design in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, Victoria Harrison is glad to be working with mentor Kris Keller, president and founder of The Design Source Ltd.

Q: How did you get started in design, specifically loft design, in St. Louis?

A: After working for Kris as an assistant during college and then receiving a bachelor’s degree in interior design, I went to work on the West Coast. I was given the opportunity to return to The Design Source to head up a new loft design department – which has always been my passion.

Q: Is there a typical style for loft design?

A: Although most loft design is minimalistic and modern/contemporary, I take into consideration the client’s personal taste and design needs. For example, a loft client is leaning toward contemporary with a rustic edge. Accessories and colors might suggest an Aspen ski lodge setting – with clean-lined comfort and simple shapes.

Q: Do your loft clients tend toward neutrals on the walls, or are they choosing strong colors?

A: My clients are willing to take some risks. As a rule, they don’t want white walls. One client says an absence of color is like living in a refrigerator. Clients are opting for bold color.

Designer Sketch
VICTORIA HARRISON
thedesignsourceltd.com

BORN AND RAISED: In St. Louis.
FAVORITE WINDOW TREATMENT: Tall iridescent silk taffeta panels for softness and interest.

WHAT I LOVE: Color…and I’m not afraid to use it. My favorite shade right now is a light lime green.