Principal Designer – Designstiles
Background
Irene Lovett is the founder of Designstiles, a Los Angeles based interior design studio celebrated for its vibrant, client driven spaces. Raised in Southern California, Irene’s path to design was shaped by a pivotal conversation with her aunt when she was just nine years old. That moment opened her eyes to a creative profession she hadn’t yet imagined. She explored design further at community college, taking a class for eleven dollars a unit just to test the waters. What began as a curiosity grew into a calling.
Her career officially launched during the recession, when no one was hiring and even unpaid internships were scarce. While redesigning her own home, Irene started blogging and posting about her projects, which quickly drew the attention of friends and family. Her first big client was her aunt, and from there, things started to snowball. A bartered photo shoot for her aunt’s bedroom turned into a lead, which turned into a full house renovation. Designstiles was born.
Approach
Irene built Designstiles through a mix of persistence, adaptability, and an unwavering belief in her own perspective. From day one, she knew that design was not just about picking pretty things. It was about solving problems, interpreting vision, and managing complex projects. Over time, she hired a business coach, built out systems and processes, and learned to establish boundaries that protect her time and creativity. Today, her clients are guided through a clear and structured process, from discovery call to installation, and benefit from the calm confidence that comes from years of hands on experience.
Irene’s style is colorful, fun, and personal. She believes that design should never be too serious and often adds unexpected details that make a room memorable. Kids’ rooms in particular have a special place in her heart because they give clients permission to be playful and bold. Still, she’s not afraid to evolve. As she explored remodels and full home renovations, she discovered new opportunities to help clients bring character into their homes, even if it meant starting with just a consultation and a few pillows.
Beyond Design
Beyond her client work, Irene is a mentor and source of inspiration for newer designers. She openly shares the challenges of running a design business, emphasizing that creativity is only a small part of the job. Most of it is project management, problem solving, and communication. She encourages young designers not to play it safe, but to trust their own vision and lead with confidence.
A proud Angeleno and proud Mexican American, Irene’s design sensibility reflects her roots — sunny, relaxed, and rich in color. She finds creative inspiration in books, music, travel, and even old magazines, and she’s not afraid to go against the grain when everything starts to look the same. Irene continues to find joy in the work and values the community she’s built with her trusted vendors and collaborators. Her optimism, humor, and honesty have made her a standout voice in the Los Angeles design scene.
Design, Identity, and Embracing the Fun: A Conversation with Irene Lovett of Designstiles
