Ali Budd is the driving force behind Ali Budd Interiors as its President and Creative Director. Based in Toronto, her boutique design firm specializes in luxury residential projects across North America, from Toronto to New York, Florida, and  Washington D.C.  Ali’s journey began with studies at Huron College, Western University, and an Interior Design Diploma from The International Academy of Design in Toronto. Graduating in 2006, she immersed herself in the design world, learning from Canada’s top minds. 

In 2010, Ali founded her firm, setting a new standard for bespoke luxury design. Her projects for professional athletes and business leaders have earned international acclaim, featured in Vogue Living, ELLE Décor, and more.  Beyond design, Ali hosts “House of Ali,” now streaming exclusively on Hulu in the U.S. and worldwide. With boundless creativity and unwavering passion, Ali Budd continues to redefine luxury design, one breathtaking space at a time.  Ali Budd Interiors believes that a house should embody the essence of a true home. Led by a dedicated team of artists, businesswomen, project managers, and interior  stylists, the studio has earned accolades for its transformative residential designs across North America, including in Toronto, New York, Florida, and Washington D.C. 

With a holistic approach to design, Ali Budd Interiors offers a comprehensive range of services, from meticulous space planning to bespoke furniture design and fabrication. Their expertise also encompasses lighting design, interior styling, and art curation, ensuring a seamless integration of elements that enhance both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Driven by the philosophy of “beautifully functional, functionally beautiful,” Ali Budd Interiors creates interiors that are luxurious yet deeply livable. Each piece is carefully selected or custom-made to elevate the space’s unique character while enhancing its functionality. At Ali Budd Interiors, the focus is on crafting personalized sanctuaries that resonate with the essence of those who call them home.

1. You grew up in Toronto with entrepreneur parents who owned an advertising company. Could you tell us how your interior design journey started?

Growing up with entrepreneurial parents in advertising, I was surrounded by creativity and innovation. This environment sparked my interest in design. Combining my passion for aesthetics with the business insights I gained from my parents, I pursued formal education (with encouragement from my parents) in interior design and eventually founded my own firm, focusing on creating beautiful and functional spaces.

2. Has there been a defining moment in your career?

Yes, the debut of “House of Ali” on Hulu was a significant milestone, not only for me but for my entire team at Ali Budd Interiors. It was a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. I have never been prouder of our collective achievement and the recognition it brought to our team.

3. You talk about having a holistic approach to designing interiors. Could you elaborate on that? And how do you start a project? What is the linchpin of a successful project for you?

We consider every aspect of a space, from aesthetics to functionality, and how each element interacts with the others. We aim to create environments that are not only beautiful but also cohesive, practical, and reflective of our clients’ lifestyles and needs.

When starting a project, we begin with a thorough consultation to understand our clients’ vision, preferences, and requirements. This involves discussing their daily routines, personal tastes, and any specific challenges or goals they have for the space. As a working mom, I understand the importance of ensuring the space works for kids, pets, and everyone in between. We then create a comprehensive plan that integrates all these elements, ensuring that every detail contributes to the overall harmony of the design.

The linchpin of a successful project is clear communication and collaboration. We maintain an open dialogue with our clients throughout the process, ensuring their feedback is incorporated and their expectations are met. Our team’s dedication and expertise are crucial in bringing the vision to life, ensuring the final result exceeds our clients’ expectations.

Having an all-women team was something we intentionally set out to achieve, and has become one of the unique aspects of our firm. Our team is a supportive and empowering environment where each team member brings their own strengths and perspectives to the table.

There is open communication, mutual respect, and a shared vision, which is how I believe our team keeps a harmonious front. We encourage collaboration and ensure that everyone feels valued and heard. Regular team meetings and brainstorming sessions help maintain this dynamic, allowing us to address any issues promptly and celebrate our successes together.

There isn’t a magic number or a strict rule, but over time, I’ve found that having a diverse set of skills and personalities contributes significantly to our success. It’s important to create a balance where each team member’s expertise complements the others. This synergy is what allows us to tackle projects effectively and creatively.

5. What was one of the hardest learned lessons in your practice?

Setting clear boundaries and managing expectations from the outset. Early in my career, I sometimes found it challenging to say no or to push back on unrealistic requests. This often led to stress and compromised project outcomes. Over time, I learned that clear communication and setting realistic timelines and expectations are crucial for the success of any project.

6. What was the best advice you have received in your path?

The best advice I received was to stay true to my vision and values and follow my gut instincts. In a competitive and ever-changing industry, it can be tempting to follow trends or make compromises. By remaining authentic and committed to my own style and principles, I’ve been able to build a distinctive brand that clients trust and appreciate. This advice has been a cornerstone in guiding my decisions and maintaining the integrity and quality of my work.

7. How do you get inspired? What fuels your creativity in your opinion?

I find inspiration from a variety of sources that fuel my creativity. Traveling exposes me to diverse cultures, architecture, and design styles that broaden my perspective. My children bring a fresh, playful outlook that often sparks innovative ideas. Interacting with clients and understanding their unique preferences and lifestyles challenges me to think outside the box and create personalized solutions. Collaborating with my talented team and exchanging ideas with other interior designers also stimulates my creativity and keeps me motivated to push boundaries in design.

8. Do you have a mantra that encapsulates your taste in interior design?

I believe in a holistic approach to interior design, this drives our process and keeps things moving in an organized way.

9. You have a TV show that has been aired globally. How has that experience, and sharing your process so authentically with so many people, changed your practice afterward?

Being able to share our design process authentically through House of Ali has been a transformative experience for our team. It has not only expanded our reach but has also deepened our commitment to transparency and innovation. The feedback and engagement from viewers worldwide have inspired us to continually push boundaries and explore new creative avenues. The exposure has reinforced the importance of storytelling in design, helping us craft narratives that resonate with our audience on a deeper level. The experience has enriched our approach to design, encouraging us to evolve while staying true to our core values of creativity and client-centric design.

10. You must be overwhelmed with clients who would like to work with you. How do you choose your projects? What is the most important thing when you choose your next project?

11. What advice would you give to beginner designers?

Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes along the way—they’re all part of your journey. Remember, the only real failure is not trying at all. Seek inspiration everywhere, from art galleries to street markets. And most importantly, build strong relationships with clients and peers—trust and creativity go hand in hand in this field.

12. What are your 3 favorite pieces from the Philia Collection?