Today in The Lounge, Nick catches up with Rich Schell of Rich Designs Home. Schell is located just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Nick, in Colorado Springs. There, he has one space for both his design firm and his high-end furniture consignment store, I Saw It First. Schell talks about the challenges and rewards of being your own boss. 

Planting the Seed

Schell was always interested in design, but at first it was more organic. His first experience in the business was sweeping floors in a floral shop in Wyoming. From there, his interest in decorating, designing, and filling spaces only flourished. Schell then moved to Colorado to work as the lead designer for the prestigious Broadmoor hotel. He designed flower arrangements for everything from lobbies to weddings around the entire resort. After working at the hotel, Schell decided it was time to start his own business. 

Growing Tall

Schell first opened a floral design school, and then a flower shop. To avoid limiting himself to the title of florist, Schell also housed antique furniture and accessories. He soon started Rich Designs Home and began designing interiors all around Colorado. Today, the retail space is mostly dedicated to his consignment business, I Saw It First. He stocks fine art, unique furniture, and more. When designing for a client, Schell often pulls from his consignment collection to bring that special touch to the space. 

Making It Work

Schell is the master of finding unique pieces to complete spaces. “Mine is a lifetime of collecting things and objects and furniture, and making it work,” he says. But if you can’t make it to Schell’s store, you can check out the antique and modern pieces on 1stdibs. Design Manager recently joined 1stdibs, and, together, they can help make your interior design business work. 

Learn more about Rich’s work at richdesignshome.com and isawitfirstconsignments.com.