A Look Back, A Step Forward: The Story So Far & Where We’re Going

HELLO! I'm so happy you're here.

You probably don’t know this, but I’ve spent years day dreaming of what this business could be. What was once doodles of ideas on paper, is now becoming reality. It’s taken a lot of hard work, sweat, and tears (probably more tears than I’d like to admit) to get where we’re at now. Although we’ve only been in business a short time, the plan has always been to get to where we are today. So how did I take doodles on paper, and turn them into reality?

A look back… 

For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to be an Interior Designer. I think my passion for design started as a kid spending my summer’s with my Grandma. HAMS (Helen Ann Maier Simrin) as we call her, was the owner of a very successful Window Covering business called Window Treats. I remember she use to let me (I probably didn’t have a choice at the time but I loved it anyway) tag along with her to jobs, meeting with clients, taking measurements, meeting with upholsters and other colleagues, etc. I got to see first hand a small glimpse into the in’s and outs of the design world. 

I loved design so much that I went to college for it, where I achieved a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Interior Design (while playing college basketball). The thing is, when we are young and…well we procrastinate and just want to live life. So for a few years that’s what I did. And while having a degree was a huge achievement, I was young and had zero real world experience…aside from maybe decorating my own home. During that time, I got married and was living my best life in Hawaii. For work I would try and land any flexible job (still allowing time for the beach) that might remotely relate to design. I gained relevant field experience from all my opportunities, whether it was as a Floral Designer, or working in a tile showroom.

Until, I landed my first DESIGN job. We had just moved to North Carolina (my husband is in the military), and I was so excited to be given the opportunity to work directly under a experienced designer, and start truly putting my degree to good use. I worked there for a couple of years learning everything I could about design, and simply put, getting real world experience. At this job is where my love for design grew and my ideas and dreams started to form. I had found my niche and I wanted to explore all of its options to the fullest. 

Chapter 2: 

In 2016 I left the security of my job to start my own business. I knew nothing about running a business, but I knew I was passionate about my work and that you only regret 100% of the chances you do not take. That’s what they say anyway, right? The first phase of this business was strictly design work. But as it progressed my dreams for more got louder and louder. I spent the next…probably couple of years, jotting down ideas, going back and forth, changing plans, and like I said, day dreaming of what I really wanted this business to be. 

In 2021 (yes during the height of the pandemic) I got an opportunity that finally would put all my plans into motion. That opportunity was the cute little brick building we now call the home of Urban Design House. For the last 2 years I have spent day in and day out trying to grow this unique place, and while it is not exactly what all I want it to be (Yet!), it is sure on it’s way. 

Where we’re going…

The goal is to keep growing and bringing our customers beautiful things and exciting opportunities. While we have a million ideas of things we want to do, we’re not completely ready for a giant leap, but we are ready to take a baby step. As of this week we are launching our very own Blog.

This is sure to be your new favorite one stop resource into the design world. A space where you’ll find must see DIY projects, design tips and tricks, tried and true product reviews, must-have & trending home decor, and I’m sure we’ll learn a thing or two together along the way. 

So whether you're a seasoned designer, a DIY enthusiast or just dripping your toes into the world of home decor, I'm here to share my insights and expertise, help you create beautiful functional spaces, learn all things design-related. So come on in, take a look around. I'm excited to share my knowledge and experiences with you, and I can't wait to see where this adventure takes us! 

Xoxo, Sim