designer highlight: renata gronkowski

I’ve recently had the pleasure to interview an interior designer located in Sarasota, FL. She might be local to Sarasota as of today but Renata Gronkowski has a career spanning 20+ years in the field across the United States and Europe. Renata was born in Poland and has a unique beginning to her design career which first starts with her getting a Master’s in Engineering at the University of Rzeszow and not a design degree. I personally was fascinated with a designer who changed their career trajectory so drastically and the reason behind it.

Interviewer: What made you make the decision to change your career path after getting your degree?

Renata: Ultimately it came down for my passion and love for art and interior design. Once I got experience in the field, I realized this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I also have other creative interests such as fashion and other forms of design.

With the use of her iPad, Renata can create concept boards on the spot for her clients

Renata, before moving to the US, spent time in London, learning English and getting a taste of the architecture and culture differences in England. London was a hub of inspiration for her but the next and permanent stop was the US. First in Virginia, but it was ultimately Chicago where Renata planted her roots for over a decade with the windy city as her backdrop. Now Renata, her husband and dog have made Florida their home for the past 5 years. Although the pace of a big city differs from the sleepy suburban city of Sarasota, Renata is still a top high in demand designer at the interior design firm she works for. As an interior designer myself, I always love to pick the brains of other designers with the following questions:

I: Can you explain your design process?

R: First it starts with the client consultation. It is important for me to understand their needs lifestyle and budget. From there I research through dozens of vendors and begin building the project starting with furniture then going through phases. Phase one being furniture, then textiles and lastly decor. Finally the presentation and I make the adjustments as needed per client’s requests. It is not unusual that there will be more phases going forward, sometimes you don’t know what’s missing till after a delivery and staging.

I: Florida definitely differs from Chicago in design aesthetics, Florida skewing more towards coastal interiors. What would you consider your personal design aesthetic?

R: When it comes to my home, I personally start my design around the timeless statement pieces I have, but it is hard for me to pinpoint one specific design aesthetic as I change my mind every few years. As a designer, I keep myself updated with what’s trending and try to incorporate those trends when I can. I will say my style has shifted a little towards a modern coastal look since being in Florida ultimately leaning towards a more transitional look.

I: In my opinion there are no definite design “rules” but rather guidelines to achieve peak visually appealing designs. What comes to your mind that is a big “no no” for you in a design?

R: I think when you focus too much on hitting a specific aesthetic and don’t also consider how functional the space has to be, the end result can cause a room that is too cluttered with furniture, decor, etc. This creates such a chaotic environment. Even though interior design is an artform, it still needs to be lived in and functional!

I: My last question, which furniture vendors are your favorite and would recommend to your clients?

R: My favorites are Vanguard, Century and Universal Furniture.

Renata is a frequent attendee of High Point Market in North Carolina to keep up to date on what is trending.

Renata is currently employed at a design firm in Sarasota, FL and has an Instagram linked below if you would like to follow and see her work. If you currently need design work in the area, be sure to reach out to her.

instagram: @interiorsby_renata