Mackenzie Collier, founder and owner of Arizona-based Mackenzie Collier Interiors, believes that the power of design can extend beyond the physical. Built on the foundations of innovation, collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainability, she and her team at MCI aim to create residential and commercial spaces that also contribute positively to the community and environment.

Mackenzie Collier Interiors is known for its innovative design style, crafting customized interior solutions that prioritize creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability across a range of projects, from homes to commercial spaces and mixed-use developments, with a diverse team capable of handling projects across North America. What is your philosophy, from a business perspective?

Mackenzie Collier: At Mackenzie Collier Interiors (MCI), our business philosophy is rooted in the belief that exceptional design goes hand in hand with integrity, collaboration, and sustainability. We approach each project with a deep understanding of our clients' unique needs and aspirations, striving to create spaces that not only reflect their individuality but also contribute positively to the environment and community. From a business perspective, we prioritize transparency, accountability, and continuous innovation, fostering strong partnerships with clients, vendors, and stakeholders alike. Our goal is not only to deliver outstanding design solutions but also to inspire and uplift those we serve, leaving a lasting impact that extends far beyond the physical spaces we create.

What’s the design scene like in Phoenix, Arizona?

MC: Phoenix, Arizona boasts a vibrant and dynamic design scene characterized by a rich tapestry of influences, from its desert landscapes and Native American heritage to its burgeoning arts and culture community. With a diverse population and a growing economy, Phoenix offers plenty of creativity and innovation in design. From modernist architecture to eclectic interior styles, the design landscape in Phoenix is as diverse as the city itself, providing endless inspiration for designers and enthusiasts alike.

What’s MCI’s tech stack?

Accounting software
17Hats

Project management software
Asana

Website
Squarespace

Who are some of your go-to people of the trade? How do you maintain strong relationships with your vendors?

MC: Building and nurturing relationships with industry professionals is essential to the success of any design business. At MCI, we have cultivated a network of go-to individuals in the trade—vendors, contractors, artisans, and fellow designers. Maintaining strong relationships with our vendors is a top priority, and we uphold clear communication, mutual respect, and a shared dedication to delivering exceptional results. Regular check-ins, collaborative brainstorming sessions, and a commitment to fair and transparent business practices enable us to cultivate lasting partnerships founded on trust and reliability.

What’s your favorite part of your job as an interior designer? What’s your least favorite?

MC: My favorite part of my current role as the founder and owner of MCI is focusing on business development and systems. I love implementing and refining efficient processes that drive the success of our company. I enjoy developing streamlined systems that enhance productivity, optimize resource allocation, and ultimately contribute to the growth and sustainability of our business. It's truly rewarding to see these systems in action, empowering our team to work more effectively and efficiently towards our shared goals.

Adapting the business to the changing economic environment is challenging. With the cost of housing and construction skyrocketing over the last couple of years, we have had to hustle to carve out a place for our design services within the ever-changing market. As a business owner, it’s tempting to stay the course and stick with our original business model, but if we want to survive, we must adapt to the changing environment.

What are the processes, habits, and rituals you have in place to ensure you’re running an efficient and profitable design business?

MC: Running an efficient and profitable design business requires a combination of strategic planning, disciplined execution, and a relentless focus on client satisfaction. At MCI, we have implemented a range of systems, processes, and habits to ensure that we operate at the highest level of efficiency and profitability. This includes rigorous project planning and budgeting, streamlined communication channels, and leveraging digital tools to optimize our workflow. We also place a strong emphasis on continuous learning and improvement, regularly reviewing our processes and procedures to identify areas for refinement and innovation. Ultimately, our goal is to deliver exceptional value to our clients while maintaining a sustainable and profitable business model.

What are some purchasing and reconciliation qualms you faced before using Zena?

MC: Matching our purchasing expenses with the specific project they were associated with has always been a huge challenge. Oftentimes, vendors only charge a deposit when you place an order, so you have to keep track of what has been charged versus what will be charged in the future. I often found myself feeling like a detective, trying to piece it all together from my bank statement. Zena has really helped in that my bookkeeper doesn't have to spend hours messaging back and forth with me to figure out how to categorize each of these expenses.

Why did you choose Zena for your design business? How has Zena improved your purchasing and reconciliation processes?

MC: When I heard about Zena, I jumped into action because it sounded too good to be true! Managing the bookkeeping around product purchasing has been the bane of my existence as an interior design firm owner for over a decade. Zena has saved me so much time going back and forth with my bookkeeper, trying to figure out which project each charge is associated with. Zena saves me time and money.

Can you offer some tips for designers who are purchasing products on behalf of their clients?

MC: For designers purchasing products on behalf of their clients, communication is key. I would recommend ensuring that your client signs off on every single item before you purchase it. Also, ensure that your contract reflects a specific time period during which a client can change their mind about an item (if at all). You never want to be stuck owning an item because a client ended up not liking it. I also recommend ensuring that your contract protects you in case vendors and retailers experience unexpected delays or if items arrive damaged. Lastly, I recommend getting paid in advance for 100% of your purchasing. You are not a bank, so you shouldn’t have to front the money for your clients' new products. Charging 100% upfront ensures that you won’t encounter billing delays or be stuck in a tough spot if a client changes their mind about proceeding with the project.

What is one valuable business lesson you wish you had learned first-thing in your career?

MC: If I were starting over, I'd prioritize branding and marketing much earlier. Initially, I lacked clarity on my target clientele and the projects best suited for me. Attempting to appeal to everyone seemed like the broadest strategy, but in hindsight, I should have conducted thorough market research and defined my niche sooner. It wasn't until three years into my business journey that I undertook this crucial step. Once I identified my ideal client and crafted a focused strategy, winning over clients became significantly easier. While my ideal client profile has evolved, the essence of my brand still revolves around the foundation laid back in 2014.