Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Means.
Hi Melissa, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I launched my business—originally known as Melissa Means Interiors—in June of 2020. Over the past five years, we’ve evolved into a co-creative technical design studio that supports interior designers both virtually and in person. Our core services include everything from detailed elevations to full construction documentation, as well as renderings and design consulting. We love being part of the entire design process, start to finish.
Since launching, we’ve had the privilege of collaborating with over 45 designers on more than 170 projects across the country.
In 2024, we began transitioning into our own residential design work while continuing to support fellow designers. And in 2025, we officially rebranded as LuLa Interiors (named after my two amazing kids, Luca & Isla / also referred to as Lu & Lala) and opened our doors to take on more of our own full-service residential projects. We’ve grown into a strong, dedicated team of two, and we’ve been (very!) busy ever since.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a completely smooth road—when you run a business, there are always bumps along the way. But overall, I’ve been incredibly fortunate. One of the biggest advantages of working with so many different interior designers over the years is that I’ve been able to learn from a wide range of styles, workflows, and business models. I’ve taken the best parts of what I’ve seen—and even the challenges—and used them to shape a really strong and thoughtful design process within my own business.
A big turning point was hiring my design assistant about six months ago. That was a huge transition for me, going from a solo operation to leading a small team. But it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. DeLaine has been such an incredible support, and I genuinely don’t know what I’d do without her! I’m still learning how to lead and collaborate in a way that keeps our standards high while also creating space for growth—but it’s been a really rewarding journey.
This year has been one of the most pivotal and rewarding chapters in our journey so far. It marks the moment we began taking on our own residential projects, stepping into a new level of creative and professional responsibility. We’ve been incredibly fortunate to land two luxury new-builds—a 6,000-square-foot home and a 9,500-square-foot home—which we’ve already begun designing in collaboration with a talented architectural team.
Transitioning from supporting other interior designers to leading our own large-scale projects has been a major leap, and we’re both proud and grateful for the opportunity. It’s been a challenge, but also an affirmation that we’re exactly where we’re meant to be. We’re truly excited to see where this momentum takes us next.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Our business is unique in that we’re not just a traditional interior design studio—we thrive on collaboration and community. A big part of what we do is supporting other interior designers through technical design services, renderings, and consulting. I’ve always been passionate about staying connected to the design community, constantly learning from my peers and offering support where I can. In fact, a few fellow designers and I just launched a local networking group for Interior Designers! We held our very first monthly meet-up this week! The goal is to create a constructive, supportive space where we can talk about design business challenges, swap vendor recommendations, share strategies, or even just offer emotional support to each other (we all need that every once in a while..haha).
On the full-service residential side of our business, I really pride myself on being able to adapt to any design style. I believe a strong designer should be able to create something custom and intentional for each client—not just aesthetically, but based on how they live and what brings them joy. I love incorporating elements of surprise—whether it’s a unique half-arched passthrough, a bold statement fireplace, or an unexpected piece that totally steals the show. My style often plays with organic textures, nature-inspired materials, pops of color, and patterns that feel playful yet elevated.
What I’m most proud of is building a business that feels creative, collaborative, and ever-evolving—where I get to design spaces that feel deeply personal to each client while staying connected to the larger design community.
How do you define success?
To me, success is being completely in love with what you do, feeling inspired by the work you create and knowing it has a positive impact on others. When I see how a space I’ve designed shifts someone’s energy, improves how they live, or simply brings them joy every day, that’s the most rewarding part. It’s not just about beautiful interiors; it’s about creating environments that genuinely enhance people’s lives. That’s what success looks like for me.
Pricing:
- Designer to Designer Services – $80/hr
- Residential (New Build or Remodel) Full-Service Interior Design Service – Inquiry Only
- Designer For A Day (One Time Service) – $800
- Full Service Kitchen & Bath Design – Inquiry Only
- Custom Millwork/Built-In Design – Inquiry Only
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lulainteriors.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lula.interiors/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-means-bb50983a/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lula-interiors-vista#reviews
Image Credits
Brandon Means (All Photography) –
www.beansvisuals.com
@beansvisuals
