Russo: “My edge lies in embracing cutting-edge technology”
Today we’d like to introduce you to Danny Russo.
Hi Danny, I’m so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey began amid the Great Recession, when most were cutting back, and I was diving headfirst into my passion for design. It all started with my residence, then extended to a hair salon in the vibrant Short North. That initial spark ignited a wildfire of creativity, leading me to design townhomes, restaurants, retail boutiques, and countless residential spaces. My curiosity about construction and the intricacies of building codes propelled me further. I even pursued real estate studies, arming myself with the knowledge to guide clients in making intelligent decisions. Fast forward fifteen years, I emerged as a design influencer, and my career skyrocketed. The interior design world is fiercely competitive, but I relied on my instincts, embraced challenges, and consistently pushed boundaries. With over 20 years in the industry, I’m still learning daily, grateful for the journey and those who believed in me along the way.
Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Oh, not! Launching a business during the Great Recession was no small feat. Then, a decade later, the pandemic hit, causing unprecedented disruptions to the global supply chain. Projects were delayed for months, furniture never arrived, and beloved vendors left the business. Every day, I demanded adaptability. I pivoted so much that I felt like a ballerina performing pirouettes! Communication with clients became even more crucial. These challenges, though tough, honed my skills and made me better at my craft. I’ve seen designers come and go and significant vendors crumble, and when I think I’ve seen it all, something even stranger happens.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m known for breaking the rules in interior design. My edge lies in embracing cutting-edge technology. AI and Virtual Reality are revolutionizing industries, and I’m at the forefront of interior design. Clients can now visualize their spaces through VR goggles, experiencing my design vision firsthand. 3D renderings allow us to plan every inch meticulously. I take pride in pioneering these technological advancements in our field. Equally important is my ability to listen to clients, tailoring designs to their unique personalities and lifestyles. It’s astonishing how some designers overlook this fundamental aspect, but I strive never to be “That Designer.”
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
My unmatched passion for interior design is my driving force. Constantly expanding my knowledge, attending markets, and taking on challenging clients keeps me at the top of my game. This passion has seen me through the most difficult times, and my tenacity has been pivotal to my success. Building relationships is another cornerstone of my approach. I treat my clients like family, always going above and beyond to ensure their satisfaction. This commitment to relationships and my relentless passion define my success.