A Day in the Life of An Island Interior Designer

Living and working as an interior designer in Hawai‘i is a dream in so many ways. Every day, I’m surrounded by the beauty of the ocean, lush landscapes, and that unique island light that shifts from soft gold in the morning to warm pink in the evening. This natural beauty is always an inspiration—it influences the colors I choose, the textures I layer, and the sense of calm I aim to create in every home.

But being an island designer also means working with a completely different set of logistics than designers on the mainland. While my continental counterparts can spend an afternoon browsing multiple furniture showrooms, hardware suppliers, and art galleries in one trip, that’s not the case here. On an island, options are more limited, shipping takes longer, and planning ahead is not just a good idea—it’s essential.

Morning: Inspiration & Planning

I like to start my days with a good cup of local coffee and some time outdoors to set the tone for the day and fuel my creativity. Back in my studio, I move into sketching or mood-boarding—often choosing color palettes with the blues of the ocean and the greens of the sand while also taking inspiration from current trends and our island lifestyle.

From there, it’s all about organization. I review client projects, make calls to vendors, and check on shipping timelines. On the mainland, placing an order for a sofa or light fixture might mean it arrives in a week or two. Here, it can take several months—especially if it has to make its way across the ocean and then onto the island.

Midday: Mainland Vendor Coordination

Since I can’t easily see every piece in person here on the island, I make at least two trips a year to the mainland. These trips are packed with vendor meetings, showroom tours, and quality inspections. I want to see the finishes, feel the fabrics, and check the craftsmanship before making a purchase.

These in-person visits allow me to confidently select furniture, lighting, and materials that I know will meet my standards and my clients’ expectations—while also avoiding costly mistakes from ordering sight unseen.

Afternoon: Logistics, Logistics, Logistics

This is where island design really differs from mainland design. Coordinating shipments, arranging for storage, making sure oversized items are crated properly, and planning for delivery all require careful attention. I work closely with shipping companies to ensure that pieces arrive safely and within our project timeline.

One small delay in shipping can cause a ripple effect in the project schedule, so I build in buffer time and keep my clients updated every step of the way.

Evening: Reflection & Creativity

By the end of the day, I take time to review progress and dream about what’s next. The challenges of island design are real, but so are the rewards. There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing a home come together, knowing that every piece was chosen with care, planned with intention, and delivered despite the hurdles.

And when I step outside and see the ocean, the mountains, and the sunset—all within a single glance—I’m reminded exactly why I do what I do. Designing in Hawai‘i isn’t just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about crafting homes that reflect the spirit of the islands and the people who live here.

At Two Cats Interiors, we bring the heart of the islands into every project—combining the inspiration of our surroundings with the skill and experience to navigate the unique logistics of island life. The result is a home that feels effortless, serene, and perfectly you.