June News: Neuroscience in Design

What If Your Home Could Actually Improve Your Health?

Written by Tara Mayfield, Host Haley Hinson Ishmael

What if great design could do more than create beautiful spaces? In our latest Designer Spotlight, Nina Lichtenstein shares how biophilic design, neuroscience, and psychology are reshaping the way we think about our homes and workplaces. From a childhood rooted in nature to pioneering wellness-centered interiors, her journey offers a fascinating look at the future of design—and why our environments matter more than we realize.

[Read the full interview to discover how thoughtful design can help people truly flourish →]

Grow Your Interior Design Business Safely With Subcontractors

Expanding your interior design business often means bringing on subcontractors, but working with others introduces new risks. The right preparation ensures you can scale your projects safely, protect your clients, and safeguard your business.

How to Work Safely:

Written Contracts: Clearly outline tasks, timelines, responsibilities, and indemnity clauses. DSAinsure provides free interior designer contracts written by risk and claims attorneys.

Liability Coverage: Make sure each subcontractor is properly insured or added to your interior designer insurance policy to avoid exposure from accidents or mistakes.

Top 6 Subcontractors You Should Know:

1. General Contractor – Critical for renovations, layout changes, or large-scale construction.
2. Artists/Painters – Bring rooms to life with originality and finishing touches.
3. Seamstress – Customize textiles, drapery, and cushions to elevate your design.
4. Carpenter – Build custom furniture or maximize unique spaces.
5. Lighting Designer – Ensure your designs are functional, livable, and beautifully lit.
6. Architect – Guarantee structural safety and code compliance for your projects.

Partnering with the right subcontractors can help you take on bigger projects, improve client satisfaction, and grow your reputation, but only if you do it safely and smartly.

Cover Yourself and Grow With Confidence

DSAinsure helps interior designers cover risks while working with subcontractors, so you can scale safely and focus on designing beautiful spaces.

Get a free quote today: DSAinsure Application

Or call (484) 560-6661 to speak with a specialist.

DSA Insider: Design Topics, Events and Fresh Reads

Design Topic & Trends

The Future of Home: The Death of the Starter Home

"By and large, people consider homeownership to still be a significant part of the American dream—but they're finding new ways to make it happen." —Hannah Jones, senior economist at realtor.com.

The idea of the "starter home" is rapidly evolving as rising costs, limited inventory, and shifting lifestyles reshape the housing market. Instead of following the traditional path to homeownership, more buyers are embracing tiny homes, multigenerational living, and other creative solutions that challenge long-held expectations of what "home" should look like. For designers, these changing living arrangements present new opportunities to create spaces that maximize flexibility, functionality, and long-term livability. Read how today's housing realities are redefining the future of home.

Upcoming Events:

July 26–30, 2026 | Las Vegas, Nevada

One of the nation's largest home furnishings markets, Las Vegas Market showcases thousands of furniture, lighting, décor, gift, and lifestyle brands under one roof. Designers can discover new product launches, connect with vendors, and attend educational sessions focused on business growth and emerging trends.

Fresh Reads:

A Mood, A Thought, A Feeling: Interiors

A Mood, A Thought, A Feeling: Interiors by Author Young Huh, Foreword by Zooey Deschanel and Jonathan Scott is a beautifully curated look into the work and philosophy of acclaimed designer Young Huh. Organized around the emotions our homes evoke, the book explores how thoughtful use of color, pattern, texture, and storytelling can transform the way we experience a space. Equal parts inspiration and design masterclass, it's a fresh addition to any interior designer's bookshelf.