Today we’d like to introduce you to Helen Austen.
Hi Helen , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Shortly after completing my master’s degree in counseling—and before the Marie Kondo craze—I launched a professional home organizing company. I quickly discovered that organizing was a natural extension of my counseling background, offering a way to help people create positive change in their lives in a tangible, immediate way. For nearly 12 years, I found deep fulfillment in making a meaningful impact on people’s everyday environments.
Over time, I began to notice a recurring gap: the need for more functional and thoughtful interior design. I also felt a growing urge to tap into my own creativity and lifelong love of color and pattern. The pandemic became a turning point—it pushed me to finally complete the interior design program at the New York Institute of Art and Design. By the fall of 2020, I transitioned into full-service interior design. While the business of design differs greatly from organizing, I’ve truly loved this new chapter and remain grateful that I made the leap.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Since I wasn’t new to running my own business, the transition has been as smooth as running a business can be—which, as any business owner knows, is never exactly smooth! Early on, I recognized the importance of having clear systems and procedures in place to manage the many moving parts of interior design. Discovering The Business of Design was a game-changer—it became the foundation on which I’ve built my business, and I’m incredibly grateful I found it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We often underestimate the profound impact our homes have on our well-being. I love helping clients transform their spaces into places of rest, connection, joy, and inspiration. Through intentional design, I believe our mental health and overall wellness can be meaningfully improved.
I’m especially known for my creative use of color, materials, and pattern—drawing inspiration from art, nature, and global travel. My work is grounded in a deep commitment to function, high-quality materials, and exceptional craftsmanship. What sets me apart is my ability to blend emotional intelligence with aesthetic vision—creating spaces that not only look beautiful, but also feel deeply personal and supportive of my clients’ lives.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
As a serial entrepreneur, I consider myself a calculated risk-taker. I’m naturally a planner and always try to mitigate risk where I can, but the truth is—business ownership is never without uncertainty. It’s not for the faint of heart. My approach is to be thoughtful and strategic when evaluating risks, but not to let fear of the unknown prevent me from pursuing new opportunities. Some of the most rewarding steps I’ve taken have involved a leap of faith, backed by preparation and purpose.
Pricing:
- In home consultation- $550 for 90 minutes
- Custom pricing based on project scope
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.HelenAusten.com
- Instagram: @helenandcointeriors
- Facebook: @helenandcointeriors
- Youtube: @helenandcointeriors
Image Credits
Photos by Ellen Renee Photography and Craig Keene Photography
