What happens when a design firm makes philanthropy, teamwork, and innovation just as important as the projects themselves?

In this episode, Blima Ehrentreu, founder and CEO of The Designers Group, shares her journey in the interior design industry, from launching her firm to leading a growing team across Toronto and New York. Blima opens up about her philosophy on leadership, community impact, and philanthropy, while also exploring how AI and smart technology are transforming the future of design.

What sets Blima apart is her role as an activator—someone who sees gaps in the industry and creates initiatives to fill them. From TDG Gives Back to TDG Insider and the TDG Furniture Exchange, she’s built programs that extend her firm’s impact beyond design projects, addressing real needs in the community and industry.

We also discuss how purposeful design enhances healthcare environments, the importance of teamwork in building a thriving creative culture, and the realities of managing a multi-location design firm. Blima reflects on leadership, resilience, and why she believes design should always have a greater purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Showing up and working hard every day is essential for success.
• Awards are a recognition of great work, not the end goal.
• Success comes with unseen challenges and perseverance.
• User-centered, purposeful design creates spaces that improve lives.
• Philanthropy is core to TDG, with initiatives like TDG Gives Back, TDG Insider, and TDG Furniture Exchange.
• Firm growth has been organic, driven by strong client relationships.
• Diverse teams enhance creativity and deliver stronger solutions.
• AI and technology streamline design processes and increase efficiency.
• Clear communication is key to managing clients and projects.
• Passion and resilience are vital traits for aspiring designers.

About the Guest:

As Founder and CEO of The Designers Group, Blima Ehrentreu leads an award-winning international interior design firm with offices in Toronto, New York, and Miami. Under her leadership, TDG has completed hundreds of projects across residential, commercial, healthcare, and hospitality sectors, earning recognition from Inc. Magazine, GlobeSt’s Women of Influence, and Crain’s Notable Leaders in Real Estate.

Blima is also the driving force behind initiatives such as TDG Gives Back, TDG Insider, and TDG Furniture Exchange, reflecting her commitment to philanthropy, mentorship, and community impact. Known as an activator, she integrates AI, smart technology, and forward-thinking strategies into her work, positioning design as a tool for both innovation and positive change.

Check out The Designers Group’s website: www.thedesignersgroup.com Instagram: @thedesignersgroup LinkedIn: The Designers Group

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