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Mastering Client-Centered Design: Through Environmental Psychology
"Places Have Personalities, Listen to Them" (Jennifer DiStefano)
Every space we enter tells a story. Some are vibrant and dynamic, buzzing with energy, while others are calm, reflective, and grounded. As a designer, I believe that each place carries a unique personality—a soul that speaks through its architecture, materials, light, and energy.
When we listen to a place, we can design in harmony with its essence. It's not just about making a space look good; it’s about creating environments that resonate deeply, that feel right. Whether it’s a luxury residence, a workplace, or a hospitality retreat, honoring the personality of a place elevates the design beyond aesthetics—it creates a connection.
Next time you enter a space, take a moment. Listen to what it’s saying. What’s the mood? What’s the story? What’s the feeling?
Environmental Psychology offers a value-driven approach that enriches both knowledge and society. When applied to Mastering Client-Centered Design, it enhances the space, the experience within, and the overall well-being of those who inhabit it.
Our expertise adds value to our client's investment, whether in a residence or corporation. Luxury design is unique because these clients recognize our contribution- not just in aesthetics, but in supporting their legacy and longevity. This, in turn, transforms a new client into a returning, long-term one.
Review by Sharon C.
Retired long time Assistant Director of Psychiatric Rehabilitation
and Mental Health Counselor with a large New York Health System
"... I found it easy to follow and the psychology aspects were spot on. I think it's a great resource for design professionals, should be required reading and I could see it used in college classrooms and/ or professional seminars.
I particularly like the personal touches/ quotes, i.e. 'We don't live in a bubble...', 'Designing with Identity in Mind', '... telling the client's story', 'listening to the personalities of places and how they shape us', 'meeting the client in desire'.
Biography of Author Jennifer DiStefano
Studio Head of DiStefano Designs HGTV Designer HBO Set Designer
Speaker on NEOCON Chicago Board, “A Day in the Life of an Interior Designer”
Ms. Jennifer DiStefano, NCIDQ, an Interior Architect, is an alum of The Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.).
She currently has over 30 years’ experience in the design field and project & program management.
Throughout her attendance at F.I.T. she won several design competitions resulting in her designs
being showcased at the ICFF (International Contemporary Furniture Fair), Jacob Javitz Center, for
PAVE (Planning and Visual Exhibits), and a thematic room design for Bloomingdale's.
With a rich and diverse background spanning architectural firms, design firms, and furniture design & specification companies, Jennifer brings a holistic approach to every project she undertakes. Having worked in the dynamic markets of New York City and Washington, DC, her experience extends to construction management, hospitality, and government agencies providing a comprehensive understanding of design and implementation across a wide range of industries. This diverse foundation positions Jennifer as a knowledgeable resource on the critical role of environmental psychology in design. Her work demonstrates how applying these concepts elevates client relationships to a whole new level, fostering deeper connections.
Every space we enter tells a story. Some are vibrant and dynamic, buzzing with energy, while others are calm, reflective, and grounded. As a designer, I believe that each place carries a unique personality—a soul that speaks through its architecture, materials, light, and energy.
When we listen to a place, we can design in harmony with its essence. It's not just about making a space look good; it’s about creating environments that resonate deeply, that feel right. Whether it’s a luxury residence, a workplace, or a hospitality retreat, honoring the personality of a place elevates the design beyond aesthetics—it creates a connection.
Next time you enter a space, take a moment. Listen to what it’s saying. What’s the mood? What’s the story? What’s the feeling?
Environmental Psychology offers a value-driven approach that enriches both knowledge and society. When applied to Mastering Client-Centered Design, it enhances the space, the experience within, and the overall well-being of those who inhabit it.
Our expertise adds value to our client's investment, whether in a residence or corporation. Luxury design is unique because these clients recognize our contribution- not just in aesthetics, but in supporting their legacy and longevity. This, in turn, transforms a new client into a returning, long-term one.
Review by Sharon C.
Retired long time Assistant Director of Psychiatric Rehabilitation
and Mental Health Counselor with a large New York Health System
"... I found it easy to follow and the psychology aspects were spot on. I think it's a great resource for design professionals, should be required reading and I could see it used in college classrooms and/ or professional seminars.
I particularly like the personal touches/ quotes, i.e. 'We don't live in a bubble...', 'Designing with Identity in Mind', '... telling the client's story', 'listening to the personalities of places and how they shape us', 'meeting the client in desire'.
Biography of Author Jennifer DiStefano
Studio Head of DiStefano Designs HGTV Designer HBO Set Designer
Speaker on NEOCON Chicago Board, “A Day in the Life of an Interior Designer”
Ms. Jennifer DiStefano, NCIDQ, an Interior Architect, is an alum of The Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.).
She currently has over 30 years’ experience in the design field and project & program management.
Throughout her attendance at F.I.T. she won several design competitions resulting in her designs
being showcased at the ICFF (International Contemporary Furniture Fair), Jacob Javitz Center, for
PAVE (Planning and Visual Exhibits), and a thematic room design for Bloomingdale's.
With a rich and diverse background spanning architectural firms, design firms, and furniture design & specification companies, Jennifer brings a holistic approach to every project she undertakes. Having worked in the dynamic markets of New York City and Washington, DC, her experience extends to construction management, hospitality, and government agencies providing a comprehensive understanding of design and implementation across a wide range of industries. This diverse foundation positions Jennifer as a knowledgeable resource on the critical role of environmental psychology in design. Her work demonstrates how applying these concepts elevates client relationships to a whole new level, fostering deeper connections.
131 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 13, 2025
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
February 25, 2025
A Thoughtful and Transformative Approach to Design
Jennifer DiStefano’s Mastering Client-Centered Design: Through Environmental Psychology offers a fresh perspective on the way we interact with spaces. As someone deeply interested in both design and psychology, I found this book to be an eye-opening exploration of how our surroundings influence mood, energy, and overall well-being.
What sets this book apart is its emphasis on listening—not just to clients, but to the spaces themselves. DiStefano argues that every environment has a distinct personality, shaped by its materials, light, layout, and history. Rather than imposing a design purely based on trends or aesthetics, she encourages designers to be in tune with these subtle elements, creating spaces that feel both intentional and deeply connected to the people who use them. This idea resonated with me, as I’ve often noticed how some places immediately feel inviting, while others seem cold or disjointed, even if they look visually appealing.
The book also delves into the psychology behind design, explaining how environmental factors can impact emotions, productivity, and overall experience. I particularly appreciated her discussion on luxury spaces—not as mere displays of wealth, but as carefully curated environments that enhance comfort, identity, and even legacy. It’s a perspective that elevates luxury design beyond surface-level opulence and makes it about longevity and meaning. One of the strongest aspects of this book is its practical approach. While it is rich in philosophy and theory, it never feels abstract. DiStefano provides clear examples, making it accessible to both professionals and design enthusiasts. Whether you’re an interior designer, an architect, or simply someone who appreciates thoughtful spaces, this book will change the way you see the environments around you.
Overall, Mastering Client-Centered Design is more than just a book about creating beautiful spaces—it’s about understanding and respecting the relationship between people and their environments. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to take their approach to design beyond aesthetics and into a realm of deeper connection and purpose.
Jennifer DiStefano’s Mastering Client-Centered Design: Through Environmental Psychology offers a fresh perspective on the way we interact with spaces. As someone deeply interested in both design and psychology, I found this book to be an eye-opening exploration of how our surroundings influence mood, energy, and overall well-being.
What sets this book apart is its emphasis on listening—not just to clients, but to the spaces themselves. DiStefano argues that every environment has a distinct personality, shaped by its materials, light, layout, and history. Rather than imposing a design purely based on trends or aesthetics, she encourages designers to be in tune with these subtle elements, creating spaces that feel both intentional and deeply connected to the people who use them. This idea resonated with me, as I’ve often noticed how some places immediately feel inviting, while others seem cold or disjointed, even if they look visually appealing.
The book also delves into the psychology behind design, explaining how environmental factors can impact emotions, productivity, and overall experience. I particularly appreciated her discussion on luxury spaces—not as mere displays of wealth, but as carefully curated environments that enhance comfort, identity, and even legacy. It’s a perspective that elevates luxury design beyond surface-level opulence and makes it about longevity and meaning. One of the strongest aspects of this book is its practical approach. While it is rich in philosophy and theory, it never feels abstract. DiStefano provides clear examples, making it accessible to both professionals and design enthusiasts. Whether you’re an interior designer, an architect, or simply someone who appreciates thoughtful spaces, this book will change the way you see the environments around you.
Overall, Mastering Client-Centered Design is more than just a book about creating beautiful spaces—it’s about understanding and respecting the relationship between people and their environments. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to take their approach to design beyond aesthetics and into a realm of deeper connection and purpose.
Displaying 1 of 1 review