Publish June 14, 2025
Why Smart Designers Are Prioritizing THIS Kind of R&D

Hey friends, Pam here! If you’ve ever dreamed of attracting those high-end, dream clients—or just building a design business that feels totally you—you’re in the right place. In this post, I’m sharing stories and the biggest takeaways from the Naples Experience, my favorite (and most transformative) event for Luxury Client Academy members. Trust me, these lessons aren’t just for those who were in the room—these are the mindset and business shifts you can start making today, wherever you are in your journey. Let’s peel back the curtain and dig in together!

Getting Out of Your Routine—and Into Your Dream Projects

Let’s be real: it’s almost impossible to imagine yourself booking a $35 million project when you’re knee-deep in everyday to-dos, emails, and regular client work. That’s exactly why I created the Naples Experience for my Luxury Client Academy members. There’s just something magical about stepping into the very spaces you want to design—from waterfront cocktail parties to private tours of some of Port Royal’s most jaw-dropping homes.

It was “research and development” in the best way possible: looking at finishes, details, lighting, and flow up close. You just can’t capture that nuance from behind a computer screen! Walking through those homes, we all felt how possible (and necessary) it is to immerse ourselves in the level of design we dream of. Spoiler alert: it makes you show up differently when you get back to your own projects.

10 Big Takeaways That Shifted My Perspective

Here are the top lessons I—and the amazing designers who joined me—walked away with. I honestly refer back to these whenever I need a mindset refresh or a little pep talk!

1. Good Design Transcends Price
Here’s the tea: even the fanciest real estate can look “meh” if the details are off. And a modest home with great finishes? Showstopper. Price tag doesn’t guarantee great style.

2. Builders Need Us (Even if They Don’t Know It!)
We bring so much clarity, process, and magic to every project. It’s when we work alongside builders that the real wow-factor happens. Don’t undervalue your role in the team.

3. Seasoned Pros Still Feel Pressure—But They Protect Their Energy
Let’s normalize saying “no” to projects that drain us. The designers I admire most carefully choose what to take on, which means fewer projects and bigger results.

4. Invest in Immersive Experiences
Stop thinking of travel or site visits as “splurges” and start viewing them as R&D for your business. It’s an investment in your growth!

5. Precision = Profit
The more efficient your process, the more money you can make. Systems are your friend—find what works and keep repeating it.

6. Learn to Love Every Phase (Even Construction!)
Even if project management or construction isn’t your sweet spot, embracing the full journey leads to bigger, juicier projects (and more confidence).

7. Time for a Tech Glow-Up
From LiDAR scans to creative touchpoints, the right tech doesn’t just make you look pro—it builds trust and saves SO much time.

8. Your Pricing Might Already Be Fine
Sometimes it’s not about changing your rates; it’s about upgrading your clients and projects.

9. Package Your Process
Getting involved early is your secret weapon. The more you weave yourself into the design journey, the more value (and income) you create.

10. Don’t Wait for Dream Projects—Go Create Them!
Stop waiting for someone to hand you your dream job. Sharpen your vision and go after the opportunities that get you excited.

So, Who’s the Naples Experience For?

Honestly? It’s not just for “luxury designers.” It’s for anyone who’s ready to step up, work smarter (not harder), and truly OWN their value. Some of our Academy members have young kids, some are seasoned pros, some just launched their own firms. The common thread? Everyone wants a thriving business and a life that feels amazing.

If you want consistent, high-quality projects, or you’re done with the burnout from chasing too many small jobs, this is your room. We’re here to support each other, trade secrets, and build businesses on our own terms.

Your Next Step (Let’s Do This Together!)

If this post sparked something in you, maybe it’s your year to join us in Naples! The only way in is through the Luxury Client Academy (nine months of group coaching and strategy, plus your golden ticket to the event). Get all the details and apply using the link in the show notes.

And if you want a quick win now, check out my free Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up on June 25th!

You deserve a business and life you absolutely love. I’m giving you the tools. You just have to step into the room. Let’s make it happen, together!

Make sure to listen to the full podcast episode here and my other blog posts! 

Until next time!

Pam