Blog
The world of commercial interior design is constantly changing. As lifestyle preferences, the economy, technological advances and shifting demographics influence the way people live, shop, entertain, work and commute. And our interior designs have to adapt. Our designs for model home interiors, multifamily developments, senior living communities, clubhouses, corporate offices, hospitality spaces, restaurants and bars have to be nimble. At Mary Cook Associates, we’re researching, studying and learning all the time. In our blog, we’ll share trends, influencers, success stories and lessons learned. Stories and examples of the incredible potential of design to influence and impact our lives never seem to get old!
California has the nation’s strictest codes and restrictions. They require full disclosure on every material used in a residence, such as this San Ramon model home interior. (Image:… Read More
The housing market may be cool for now, but there’s a huge wave of potential buyers on the horizon that are about to heat things up: aging millennials. In the… Read More
Builders and developers have spent much of the year looking over their shoulders, expecting a recession to strike at any time. Housing growth can’t keep its momentum going forever, but… Read More
“To stage, or not to stage?” That’s the question builders and developers ponder today thanks to the advent of virtual reality (and I did too in my last Builder and… Read More
Creating model homes for imaginary clients sounds like a dream job. That’s what people tell us when we explain the strategy behind model home merchandising, while the professionals we work… Read More
Five trends impact how we design commercial interiors—psychographics, sustainability, wellness, community and authenticity. All are explained in this post and evident in this community room.
Identifying business trends is… Read More
Psychographics help us know what features residents want in their homes and community settings. Features that take sustainability serious were a must in this Wisconsin residence, which features materials that… Read More
This season, design is all about harmony. Springtime simplicity flawlessly intermingles with bursts of color, shapes, and textures. Discover styles that spark creativity and inspire serenity as experts from Mary… Read More
Have you ever walked into a restaurant or store and walked right out again? Nothing engaged you—or as commercial interior designers say—converted you to a customer. The same holds true… Read More
It’s no news that the multifamily market has enjoyed rapid growth in recent years. But with a glut of product in some areas of the country and demand expected to… Read More

