Interior Design Programs Suited to Support Your Needs
“I didn't get there by wishing for it or hoping for it, but by working for it.” – Estée Lauder, American Businesswoman and Founder of The Estée Lauder Companies
As young children, we may have wished and hoped to be interior designers when we grew up, but we learned pretty quickly after jumping into this career that the tools of the trade and knowledge that helps make each of us successful aren’t just handed over.
We must work hard for our success. We may attend classes, participate in apprenticeship or intern programs, follow in the footsteps of inspiring mentors, read and read some more. None of our success is given—it’s all earned.
And this is why it is important to find local retail locations like
Cabot House Furniture & Design—a multigenerational family-owned luxury furniture retailer focusing on design-oriented consumers and a designer trade program—to support your growth in this industry.
It’s worth investigating your local offerings to discover programs like Cabot House’s Designer Trade Program, which is suited to serve your needs.
“Our bespoke Design Trade Program caters to the specific needs of interior designers, design and architectural firms, and construction companies,” shares Austin Bendetson, General Sales Manager and Director of The Trade at Cabot House. “Recently, we enhanced our program by providing office space for designers, as well as providing a receiving warehouse to facilitate seamless installations for brands we don’t carry.”
We had the pleasure of meeting Bendetson during the Spring High Point Market in April and invited him to interview with us, sharing more about his family’s business, Cabot House, his work in the interior design industry and the benefits of their Design Trade Program. Scroll down to learn more.
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A Cubist canvas by Fernand Léger brings gravitas to this New York City library designed by David Kleinberg. The walls are paneled in ebonized mahogany. The seating includes a nail head-trimmed sofa and a pair of leather club chairs. On the other side of the room, a set of card-table chairs by André Sornay balances the tableau. Photo credit: Pieter Estersohn
Some Thoughts On… Good Taste
By Carl Dellatore
In my book “
Interior Design Master Class,” legendary American designer David Kleinberg wrote, “To define taste as an aesthetic idea is like trying to describe the color of oxygen. It is ephemeral in every sense, personal in every way and subject to the vagaries of society and fashion, yet it is a constant we somehow recognize, like perfect pitch.”
Of course, Kleinberg was correct in his assessment: Defining good taste is challenging, as it is inherently subjective and varies widely across cultures, eras and individual experiences. What one person considers elegant or stylish, another might find unappealing. This subjectivity arises from the complex interplay of personal preferences, cultural influences and life experiences, making it unique to each individual.
Good taste is often confused with specific standards, levels of sophistication or refinement, but these standards are not universal. Cultural norms, social expectations and economic factors shape them. In practical terms, for example, a minimalist design with clean lines and a neutral palette might epitomize good taste in one context. At the same time, a richly decorated, maximalist interior might be prized for its vibrancy and character in another.
In “The Decoration of Houses” (1897), which defined the interior design profession, authors Edith Wharton and Ogden Codman Jr. emphasized that good taste in interior design is rooted in simplicity, harmony and respect for architectural integrity. Wharton argued that authentic good taste avoids excessive ornamentation and favors restraint, exacting attention to proportion and carefully selecting quality materials. In reaction to the Victorian era, she criticized blindly following fashion or indulging in overly ornate decorations, which she believed compromised a space’s elegance and functionality.
Wharton also highlighted the importance of understanding a home’s historical and geographical context, suggesting that interiors should complement the building’s structure, location and purpose. For Wharton, good taste was not about following rigid rules but about cultivating an eye for balance, unity and enduring qualities that make a beautiful, livable space.
Today, good taste is often confused with extravagance or the perception of luxury, but authentic good taste transcends hefty price tags and shiny surfaces; it is deeply intertwined with what suits one’s lifestyle and brings well-being. In this sense, good taste becomes a personalized concept, where the beauty of a space lies not only in its visual appeal but also in its ability to cater to its inhabitants’ unique needs and preferences.
As a designer, you know taste is fluid and can evolve as you mature in your career. Furthermore, the rooms clients appreciate or consider tasteful in their youth might change as they age and their life circumstances shift. This fluidity further complicates defining good taste in absolute terms.
But for me, there is one constant in beautifully designed rooms: comfort.
It is the final and arguably most important element of good taste. No matter how beautiful a space may be, if it is uncomfortable, it fails to serve. Comfort can be physical, like the feel of a plush sofa, or emotional, like the warmth evoked by personal mementos displayed around the home. When a space is designed with comfort in mind, it invites relaxation and ease, making it a perfect backdrop for the business of daily life.
Be sure to check out our
video with Carl Dellatore and follow his
Instagram. About
Carl Dellatore & Associates – provides designers, architects, and creatives with writing, editing, and copyediting services by an established team to effectively reveal your story.
Creating a Seamless Experience for Interior Designers
Austin Bendetson and the Cabot House Furniture & Design team provide comprehensive support to the New England and Palm Beach County interior design community
By Lindsay Field Penticuff
Austin Bendetson was originally drawn to work in his family’s business because it gave him the opportunity to connect with a rich history, and make innovative and meaningful contributions to his heritage.
Cabot House Furniture & Design is a multigenerational family-owned luxury furniture retailer focusing on design-oriented consumers and a Designer Trade Program. The story began in 1912 with a small furniture store in Haverhill, Massachusetts. The company has since expanded to seven showrooms in four states: Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island and Florida.
“Over time, my interest in design, especially furniture design, grew as I immersed myself in the creative process,” Bendetson says. “I found a genuine passion for working with designers creating beautiful spaces. Working in design now feels like a perfect fit. It’s about more than maintaining a family tradition—it’s about contributing to a legacy while shaping the future of our business.”
Bendetson joined Cabot House’s rotational program in 2018, spending time in operations, sales and leasing. Today, he is General Sales Manager and Director of The Trade.
“I focus on our consumer business and trade business. Because our trade program is relatively new and evolving, I work to understand the needs of designers and continuously adapt the program to better support their businesses and ensure their success,” he says. “It’s a team effort.”
In his spare time, Bendetson serves on the board at A Bright Future, a nonprofit dedicated to developing excellence in young Black and Latino inner-city boys who have the potential to compete on the United States Tennis Association (USTA) junior tennis circuit.
“I joined the board of A Bright Future because their mission deeply resonates with me,” shares Bendetson, who played on the men’s tennis team at Tufts University. “Having grown up playing tennis and benefiting from a similar program that gave me skills to compete at the college level, I understand the impact these opportunities can provide. I want to support Black and Latino youth with a passion for tennis who can benefit from financial support, mentoring, and group activities.”
To learn more about Bendetson, Cabot House and the work they are doing to offer programs that benefit interior design professionals, check out the Q&A below.
Can you tell us more about the Designer Trade Program at Cabot House and how it specifically benefits interior designers?
“What sets us apart is our bespoke
Trade Program that caters to the specific needs of interior designers, design and architectural firms, and construction companies. After submitting an application, one of our designers will personally contact the new trade partner to gain a deeper understanding of her/his business. Our trade program is designed to integrate with the designer’s team, whether they are looking for assistance with a single item, a living room, home, club or hotel. Beyond basic support of quoting prices, ordering samples and tracking orders, our team will assist in researching warranty claims and shipping. Recently, we enhanced our program by providing office space for designers, as well as providing a receiving warehouse to facilitate seamless installations for brands we don’t carry.”
Cabot House has a wide range of luxury brands. How do you curate your selection and what criteria do you use to decide which brands to feature?
“Travel. Aiming to innovate in style and design, our procurement team traverses the globe in pursuit of new luxury collections. We recently returned from Amsterdam and are excited to add Eichholtz furniture, lighting and home accessories to our list of leading industry manufactures. With unmatched buying power, we are dedicated to providing our designers and trade partners access to the best manufacturers in a range of styles and price points. We strive to give each brand an individual voice and statement on our showroom floors.”
Your team offers personalized service for ordering and delivery. Can you walk us through the Cabot House’s process that ensures a seamless experience from initial consultation to final installation?
“Design and seamless execution present a perpetual challenge, as achieving perfect smoothness is often elusive. It’s all in managing the details. From the outset, we strive to offer comprehensive support. Whether assisting with sourcing, completing COM forms or addressing product-related construction queries, our team is dedicated to aiding our trade partners with their projects. Each trade partner is paired with one or two Cabot House design assistants who provide support with pricing, sample requests and status updates. Our design assistants remain involved from the project’s inception to completion, ensuring continuous assistance throughout the process.”
Cabot House is a multigenerational family business. How has this family-oriented approach influenced your company culture and the services you provide?
“Family first, no matter what. While we operate seven locations, we offer the personal touch with our clients, manufacturers and trade partners. Superior customer service is our priority, and building solid relationships is important to us and why we continue to grow. Our team is dedicated to ensuring every customer has a wonderful experience.”
With locations from Maine to Florida, how does Cabot House cater to regional design preferences and ensure local tastes and styles are met?
“Fortunately, we collaborate with more than 60 vendors, offering a range of styles and price points. Consequently, each Cabot House showroom features distinct products. Our buying team curates selections for each showroom, crafting a tailored aesthetic that resonates with its specific market. This approach ensures that every location possesses an atmosphere and vibe that reflects the individuality of its locale.”
You’ve been with Cabot House for a while now. Can you share what you personally appreciate most about the company and how it has influenced your professional growth?
“My favorite aspect of Cabot House, aside from the pride of being part of the fifth generation in the business, is the dynamic nature of our work. No two days are ever the same. Our business fosters an entrepreneurial spirit among our team, allowing each member to cultivate her/his own clientele and address daily challenges to ensure client satisfaction. Each project is custom, which makes our work exciting and fulfilling.”
What is your favorite design trend right now and why?
“At the moment, my favorite design trend is the return of bold and vibrant colors. After years of minimalist, neutral palettes dominating the design scene, it’s refreshing to see color making a strong comeback. This trend is exciting because it allows for personal expression and creativity. Using rich, vibrant colors can transform a space, inject personality and create a more dynamic and engaging environment. It’s great to see how color is being used to make bold statements and bring new energy into interior design.”
Do you have a favorite design event or conference that you attend annually or often? Briefly share why that event.
“One of my favorites is attending the semiannual High Point Furniture Market, the largest furniture industry North American Trade Show, in April and October. It’s an incredible opportunity to see the latest trends and newest introductions in the design world. The event showcases innovative products and features the latest from licensed designers, offering a first look at what’s coming next in furniture, lighting and decor. Additionally, the networking aspect is invaluable. Having the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and exchange ideas is always inspiring and enriching.”
