The Lighter Side of Design: Funny and Heartwarming Client Stories

May 6

Written By Serenity Interiors by Trenell

By Serenity Interiors by Trenell

At Serenity Interiors by Trenell, we take our work seriously—but that doesn’t mean we can’t laugh along the way! Interior design is full of surprises, from hilarious miscommunications to heartwarming “wow” moments that remind us why we love what we do. Behind every paint swatch and furniture install, there’s a story—and today, we’re pulling back the curtain to share two of our favorites. These client stories are proof that design is as much about people as it is about spaces.

Let’s dive in! :)

Story 1: From Everything's Bigger in Texas… to Maryland Modern Magic

When our clients—a sweet, seasoned couple—called us after their big move from Texas to Maryland, they were understandably overwhelmed. Imagine this: for decades, they had lived in a grand, 8,000-square-foot home in Texas, complete with sprawling rooms and furniture that could practically host a football team. But now, they were adjusting to a 3,500-square-foot home. That’s still a very nice size, but in comparison? It felt tiny.

The biggest design hurdle? The wife, who was used to very traditional furniture—think ornate wood carvings, heavy drapery, and plenty of burgundy and gold—wanted something more updated. She told us, “I want to modernize… but not too modern. I still want it to feel like us.” She was trying to balance new beginnings with beloved traditions, and we completely understood.

The challenge? Their new open-concept living room and kitchen were dark and uninviting. And the kitchen, her favorite room to cook and entertain in, made her want to order takeout instead. She had even called a kitchen remodeling company that quoted her a jaw-dropping amount—so high, it made her question whether she even wanted to bother with the project.

Enter her husband, who wisely said, “Honey, I think it’s time we call a designer.” (Cue the dramatic music and our entrance!)

We stepped in with ideas that were stylish but still warm and traditional enough to feel like home. We lightened up the color palette with soft creams, added layered lighting, suggested new countertops and a backsplash that didn’t require a gut job, and introduced furnishings that were elegant and space-conscious.

Here’s the best part: we saved them over $15,000 compared to the quote from the kitchen company—and we gave them options that didn’t require them to tear up their whole house. It wasn’t just about saving money—it was about creating a space that made the wife smile again.

When the transformation was complete, her husband gave us a grin and said, “See? All it took was listening to me for once.” We all had a good laugh, and seeing the joy on their faces made it all worth it.

Story 2: The GC That Couldn’t (But Swore He Could)

Now let’s talk about a story that was… let’s say, a little more dramatic.

This client was excited to tackle a full gut renovation in their home and had a contractor they were eager to use—someone they found on their own. “He says he can do it all,” they told us confidently. “Plumbing, electrical, tile, everything!”

We always advise our clients to let us bring in our vetted team. After all, we work closely with licensed professionals who know how to execute our designs flawlessly. But we also believe in meeting our clients where they are, so we agreed to move forward—cautiously.

It didn’t take long for the warning signs to show up.

First, the walls were uneven. Not just a little crooked—we’re talking major gaps and buckling. Then came the tub filler. It was installed so far from the tub that you’d need a firehose to make it in. Next up? The shower, which was built in such a way that it was impossible to install the shower door without knocking out part of the wall. And did we mention the tile work? Let’s just say it looked like a DIY project gone rogue.

The client was panicked and understandably frustrated. But here’s the good news: at Serenity Interiors by Trenell, we don’t just design—we manage. Our team includes a seasoned construction project manager who knows how to spot a disaster in the making and guide things back on track.

We gently but firmly suggested that the contractor take a step back. After reviewing the damage (and the growing cost of correcting it), we agreed with the client that it was time to make a change. We brought in our own crew—the same skilled professionals we trust on every job—and began the process of fixing what had gone wrong.

Yes, it added time to the project. But we never walk away from a job until it's done right. Our motto is simple: no matter how long it takes, our clients deserve a finished space they love—and one that functions beautifully.

In the end, the client admitted that they wished they had trusted us from the start. But hey, we don’t say “we’ve seen it all” for nothing!

So, What’s the Moral of These Stories?

Designing or renovating a home can feel intimidating, and the stakes feel even higher when it’s your forever home. Whether you’re downsizing, modernizing, or just updating a single room, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or overspend.

That’s where Serenity Interiors by Trenell comes in.

We’re not just here to make things look good (though trust us—we do that too). We’re here to guide you, protect your investment, and help you make smart, stylish decisions that make your life easier. We bring years of experience, a full team of designers, architects, project managers, and licensed contractors, and a passion for helping our clients feel confident every step of the way.

About Serenity Interiors by Trenell

Serenity Interiors by Trenell is a full-service luxury interior design firm serving Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. From residential spaces to full-scale commercial projects, we specialize in timeless, beautiful, and functional designs tailored to each client’s lifestyle. Our team includes award-winning designers, architects, and trusted project managers to ensure your vision is brought to life with professionalism and ease. Whether you need a full renovation or simple design support, we’re here to bring serenity and style to your space.