Meet Judy Schlicksup - Knilans' Interior Designer
The Knilans’ design team is excited to bring you design tips, project ideas, room spotlights, and more in the new designer blog! We wouldn’t take advice from an anonymous ‘expert,’ and we don’t expect you to, either. Over the next few days, you’ll be introducted to the Knilans’ design team: a group of passionate, creative interior designers with a knack for understanding your style. We’ve been serving the Quad Cities and surrounding area with pride for years, and can’t wait to get to know you!
Up first is Judy Schlicksup, who has been with Knilans’ 44 years! The mother of current Knilans’ owner Tim Schlicksup, Judy has been a constant presence at Knilans’ for years. Her keen eye for quality and timeless style make her a great asset to the Knilans’ team. Many of Judy’s past design projects can be found on Knilans’ Houzz page, including this North Bettendorf Beauty, this 1789 Remodel, and the Comfortable Elegance of this Bettendorf home. Read on to meet Judy in her own words.
How did you get your start in Interior Design?
It almost seems impossible that I have been in the design field for over 44 years! Even though I did not receive my degree in interior design until the early 80’s, I know that my interest in design began at an early age. My mother and grandmother were constantly sewing and doing all types of needlework and I was always right there learning from them. Their window treatments and other embellishments always created a warm environment for our family. I continued these traditions, along with painting and refinishing used pieces of furniture. I also enjoy crafts and floral arranging.
I have had the privilege to be a designer and buyer for Knilans’ Furniture for many years. My focus has always been to look for quality in furnishings and accessories. It has been fun watching the constantly-changing trends in design.
What do you hope your impact is with the clients you work with?
My goal as a designer is to earn the trust and confidence of my client by listening and understanding their wants and needs for the type of setting that will make them the most comfortable. At the end of the project, my hope is that the experience was satisfying for my client and that we developed a friendship through the process.
If you had to pick a favorite room in your home, which would it be and why?
It is difficult to choose a favorite room. A few years ago, we made our dining room into a sitting room and our formal living room into the dining room which gave us more room for our growing family. Both rooms are warm and welcoming. I enjoy changing the centerpieces and table settings each season and also enjoy making arrangements from the flowers in our yard. The dining room is one of my favorite places because my whole family can gather there, have a good meal and linger for long interesting conversations and even the “little ones” have an opportunity to say what they think! The sitting room is a quiet place where “the girls” conversations happen!
What is a recent design trend that you love at the moment?
Using neutrals as the base cloth of upholstery allows you more flexibility to change the feel of a room by using pops of color and pattern in accessories, artwork, and pillows. This has been a trend for some time and I think that many people are very comfortable with the look.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
One of my favorite hobbies is cooking and baking and creating my own recipes. It is very relaxing for me, especially when my husband helps with the dishes! It is also rewarding to hear my grandchildren ask what the meal plan is before they come to visit. They often participate in the process and many of them are very talented and creative. We all enjoy a good meal and compliments are always a bonus!
[Editor’s note: Many of Judy’s delicious recipes have been featured in our mailers, and you can find them online by clicking here!]