Natasha Younts, DSA
Natasha Younts is a passionate advocate for interior designers, dedicated to protecting their right to practice and expanding professional opportunities within the field. With a deep appreciation for the many paths that lead to success in interior design, she is committed to recognizing diverse talent and creative expression in the industry.2000- present
Since 2000, Natasha has focused on improving education and credentialing for residential interior designers. Noticing a gap in the educational system, she devoted her time to developing accessible and high-quality programs tailored to residential interior design. Since 2006, her work has focused on enhancing the industry's education and certification standards.
In 2005, she played a key role in developing the Residential Interior Design Education (R.I.D.E.) program—an international educational course designed to elevate the standards available and create benchmarks.
By 2007, her efforts led to the implementation of nationally recognized interior design certification programs in colleges nationwide, providing students with the credentials needed to launch successful careers in residential interior design.
Natasha spearheaded the RIDQC (Residential Interior Design Qualifying Certification) initiative, which aims to raise the standards of the profession while providing a level playing field for skilled and qualified designers. This certification reflects her mission to ensure that professionals from all backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive based on merit, not restrictions.
Currently, Natasha serves on the Board of Directors for the Designer Society of America (DSA), where she continues to champion the advancement, recognition, and success of interior designers nationwide.
She believes one of the most powerful aspects of interior design is its ability to provide infinite ways to express artistic talent—something she works tirelessly to support and protect.
As Principal Designer and Owner of Gables Interiors
Managed multi-million dollar interior design project budgets; designed luxury homes; developed interior design " Discover Your Style" seminars for design shows to help the public with “DIY” projects. Natasha focused her attention on the art of interior design. During this time, she designed “Green Rooms” (the meeting place for celebrities during the show) for the Latin Billboard Awards and was chosen to design for the “Designer for the Stars” (100,000 attendees) seven times. Published several homes in numerous magazines and newspapers, including Lincoln Road, Florida Architecture, Florida Design, Veranda, Elle, Southwest Georgia Living, and Miami Herald, and featured luxury homes on The View.
1981-1994
1981-1983 attended a private college dedicated to the art of interior design and clothing design. Natasha obtained a degree in both. 1983-1994 designed couture clothing under her own signature. During this time, she designed themed parties for NBC and clients in Beverly Hills and Miami Beach. The demand for themed parties evolved into clients requesting her talents as a designer for their private homes.