The ‘Designing Doctor’ visits Liberty

With her shock of white hair and youthful vivaciousness, Margi Kyle can light up a room as quickly as she can design and redecorate one. The self-proclaimed “Designing Doctor” donned her signature accessory, a spray painted gold stethoscope, during her presentation to members of the Interior Design Society last Friday.

Credit: Soonwook Lee

The national president of the Interior Design Society (IDS) is no stranger to Liberty University, this was her second visit to the school, which holds the honor of being the first student chapter in the U.S. to join the national society.

“Being a member of the IDS, I met Margi at High Point during an IDS session. She and other officers encouraged us to join the society, and we have not been disappointed,” Ruth Gomes, the faculty advisor for IDS stated.

Her career background includes a degree in child psychology, a masters in interior design, running her own catering business, a stint as a television host on her own show, a design writer and much more.

“I’ve tackled all aspects of design, and I love all of it,” Margi Kyle said.

She is currently a member of several prestigious societies such as the Color Marketing Group, The Chamber of Commerce, American Society of Interior Designers. She also holds several executive positions, including the President of the Interior Design Society, WCAA Executive Board Member, Vice President of Window Coverings Program and Advisory Committee for the Art Institute of Charlotte.

“As the president of IDS Liberty Chapter, I have greatly benefitted from Margi taking the time to chat with the group and also one-on-one,” Abby Smith said. “She helped us direct our focus on what we really want in life and as a career in interior design.”

Kyle instructed IDS members on various aspects of designing such as color forecast, trends, branding yourself, dealing with difficult clients and presentation.

Kyle also educated members on the importance of recognizing the relationship between fashion and interior design, building portfolios, writing company policies, and networking. She emphasized the importance of assertive business dealings with clients and buyers in the competitive world of design.

“You’re not there to make a friend,” Kyle said. “It’s a business.”

IDS members have inherited boundless knowledge from design veteran, who has become an encouraging mentor for those who meet her.

“Margi has always encouraged us to go big and to never give up on what you really love doing,” Smith noted.

Kyle continues to share her knowledge and experiences in order to further educate the future generation of designers.