Chic Spotlight: Designing Diva, Dina Burke, Allied, ASID
Cincy Chic: You’re a self-proclaimed “Decorating Diva” …do explain!
Dina Burke, Allied, ASID: I am always designing! Whether for a client or out and about, if I see something that needs help, I am always visually problem solving three dimensional spaces. I could be in a restaurant and think, “It would help reduce the noise levels if less hard surfaces were used, and be more inviting if they lowered the apparent ceiling height by changing the colors…” that sort of thing. For clients, my job is to come up with creative, aesthetic and practical solutions for the spaces they live in.
Cincy Chic: How did you find yourself in this particular line of work?
Burke: It all started in Mrs. Mahn’s art class in third grade when I won the “Most Creative” award. Somehow, I wound up at Parsons School of Design in NYC and Massachusetts College of Art in Boston where I earned my B.F.A. in Design. After working in New York in advertising, marketing and brand identity for Colgate and P&G, it was a natural progression to take those skill sets in visual problem solving of space to interiors.
Cincy Chic: What would you say your specialties are?
Burke: I specialize in residential interiors for people who like attention to the details and a sophisticated, smart look whatever that style may be. This may or may not include construction, kitchens, baths, draperies, furniture, carpeting, accessories, upholstering and the like. Also, I am very good with color. I need to know how they live in the space; it is not just about a bunch of furniture in a room. Do they fold, stuff or hang clothes, say, for a master bedroom design? How do they entertain? What does comfort mean to them?
Cincy Chic: What makes you different than other interior designers out there?
Burke: I listen and am spacious with my clients, gracious and never judge. I am curious by nature and relentless in my pursuit of excellence for my clients. Good design can be had at all price points. In fact, I am very protective of my clients and how they spend their money. Also, I have a great eye. Because of that, I have a huge range and am equally at home with contemporary 20th century modern, as with traditional English Manor styles.
Cincy Chic: We understand that you’ll be having some workshops that people can attend to learn some “Decorating Diva” tips. Tell us about those!
Burke: Yes, my Decorating Diva Workshops. The Spring Series, which kicked off this past weekend, will focus on different areas that inquiring Divas ask about!
Yesterday’s focused on designing with and choosing paint color. Everyone answered questions, were shown colors and discovered a palate of colors that works for their personality and lifestyle. A lot of clients stress about color, but it is something I excel in and am happy to share tips for finding your inner color diva!
The second workshop in this series, titled “Discover Your Flower Power,” will be on May 17. In this workshop, you’ll work with the flowers hands-on and learn tips for fool-proof arrangements every time!
The third in this series will be on June 1 and will focus on designing outdoor spaces. There, you’ll see the latest trends in fabric and accessories.
And don’t worry if you weren’t able to make the first workshop in the series. I will be repeating the series so that people can come to the various workshops whenever it fits in their schedule.
Cincy Chic: Other than Designing and your Southern Living at Home business, what else do you enjoy doing?
Burke: I have Champion Cocker Spaniels that I breed and show all over the country as a hobby. I also love to garden and travel.
Cincy Chic: What’s the most well-decorated place you’ve ever been in?
Burke: New York’s MOMA room with Monet’s paintings of water lilies. The paintings are huge and surround you and the room is saturated with color. They let the art have its voice, which is appropriate for the space.
Cincy Chic: What’s your favorite thing about/or thing to do in Cincinnati?
Burke: Well, this is really simple but I love walking the dogs in my Hyde Park neighborhood. I enjoy being in the moment that the pace of walking affords you to see beauty in ordinary things like the lovely architecture and gardens. Also, the Findlay Market is so wonderful and unique and reminds me of being an art student and shopping Boston’s Haymarket. Reds Opening Day and the parade, walking to the square and getting Graeter’s Ice Cream with my nieces and nephews, and our wonderful Music Hall with all the spectacular world class events. I am a transplant, but love Cincinnati!
Click here or on the play button below to view an exclusive Webcast with Dina, the Designing Diva herself!
