Getting published is on most every designer’s wish list, offering that exciting “I made it” moment. This week, we asked five designers—Emily Del Bello, Alison Downey, Amy McCoy, Tina Ramchandani and Elana Tenenbaum Cline—to share their top advice for getting projects featured in a shelter magazine.
Tell a Story
“From my experience, getting published comes down to two key factors: the quality of the work itself and how the story is presented. I’ve learned that editors are often juggling a lot of information and don’t have time to dig deep into every submission. It’s essential that you or your PR team frame the story in a way that immediately excites them. Make it easy for them to see the various angles through which they can showcase your project. If you have the budget, investing in someone who specializes in this process can make all the difference. But if you’re working with limited resources, carve out the time to really focus on presenting the most compelling details of your project in a clear and engaging way.” —Tina Ramchandani, Tina Ramchandani Creative, New York
Pitch an Angle
“When aiming to get a specific project published, I recommend presenting a compelling angle to editors. The key is to simplify their decision-making process by making your project stand out. Clearly outline three distinct reasons why your project is unique. This will give editors concrete points to consider and discuss. Be concise and direct in your proposal. Focus on the essential elements that make your project noteworthy. The easier you make it for editors to see the value in your work, the more likely they are to choose it. Make sure you have a link to the high-resolution photos that are required for the submission. If you’re aiming to collaborate with a local magazine, consider inviting the editor for coffee. This informal meeting can provide valuable insights into the types of projects they’re seeking and help you better understand their target audience. Building this relationship can also foster a sense of trust and make your projects stand out.” —Amy McCoy, McCoy Design Studio, Saint Louis
Build a Team
“To get your interior design work published, invest in high-quality photography and consider hiring a reputable publicist. Over the past few years, I’ve worked with two excellent PR firms, and both investments paid off. However, their success depends on the materials you provide them, so always keep the end goal in mind when working on a project. As you develop your design, think about how it will photograph—focus on styling and artwork, and make sure to choose an experienced photographer. Photographers often have strong relationships with editors and are eager to pitch standout work, so leverage that connection and ask about it when interviewing them. I have invested heavily in professional photography since my firm’s early days, and now we have a diverse portfolio that gets published across a wide range of print and online platforms. Finally, don’t overlook the value of hiring a stylist. Although it’s another investment, the right stylist can elevate your designs to that polished, magazine-worthy look that editors are more likely to feature.” —Alison Downey, Downey Interiors, New York
Style Strategically
“Partnering with a photographer who understands editorial composition is just the first step—styling is what transforms a great image into a compelling story. Publications look for images that feel lived-in, layered and intentional, where every detail contributes to the overall narrative of the space. This means considering how textiles fall, how light plays across surfaces, and how objects interact to create a sense of warmth and authenticity. A perfectly placed floral arrangement, a casually draped throw, or a stack of well-chosen books can shift a photo from feeling staged to effortlessly chic. Layering in personal objects and lifestyle elements makes the project more relatable and engaging. A well-photographed and thoughtfully styled space doesn’t just showcase design, it invites people into a moment, making it far more likely to be published.” —Elana Tenenbaum Cline, Carta Creatives, Southport, Connecticut
Don’t Forget Kitchen and Bath
“Have a great team behind you to help get your images in front of the right people. PR is such a beast that it’s important to invest in a team that knows how to get you out there in the best light. You can then focus on producing more [designs], while they are doing the behind-the-scenes work to get your work to different publications. I also highly suggest photographing the kitchen, and at least one bathroom per project. I have had feedback from people needing to see more of the space or wanting to understand the entire project, and to do so you must include these spaces.” —Emily Del Bello, Emily Del Bello Interiors, New York
