Mark Tremblay Of Marc-Michaels Interior Design Inc. On Five Things You Need To Create A Highly Successful Career As A Commercial Designer
An Interview With Athalia Monae
Resilience — This isn’t an easy industry; you will face setbacks. The ability to bounce back is key.
As a part of my series about the ‘Five Things You Need to Know To Create A Highly Successful Career As A Commercial Designer,’ I had the pleasure of interviewing Mark Tremblay.
Mark Tremblay, President of Marc-Michaels Interior Design, Inc., has been a driving force behind the firm’s success since joining in 1994. With nearly three decades of experience, Mark has overseen a wide range of projects, solidifying the firm’s position as one of the most respected names in luxury interior design. As the firm approaches its 40-year anniversary this year, Mark continues to play a pivotal role in celebrating its legacy and shaping its future. A graduate of the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.) in Marketing, Mark leverages his marketing expertise to ensure every project is tailored to meet and exceed client expectations. His ability to understand and articulate the client’s vision has been instrumental in the firm’s consistent delivery of world-class designs.
Specializing in luxury residential projects, Marc-Michaels Interior Design focuses on crafting exceptional single-family homes and expansive condos, with spaces ranging from approximately 4,000 square feet to well over 10,000 square feet. Their offerings extend beyond standard interior design, with a comprehensive approach using interior detailing that ensures every element of a space is meticulously curated, from custom millwork to tailored finishes. This attention to detail elevates their projects to unparalleled levels of sophistication.
The firm’s outstanding work has earned it recognition as a Design Giant Award winner, ranking as the #1 residential interior designer for many years. This accolade highlights their unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the luxury design space. The firm’s portfolio includes prestigious developments such as The Ritz in Naples and the St. Regis in Longboat Key, Sarasota, showcasing their expertise in creating timeless and modern designs. These notable projects exemplify the firm’s ability to seamlessly blend elegance with functionality.
As President, Mark travels extensively, collaborating closely with the design team to bring these luxury projects to life. His leadership has fostered long-lasting relationships with clients, architects, and industry professionals, many of whom have become close friends. This network of trust and collaboration has been vital to the firm’s enduring success. Mark’s commitment to giving back is equally remarkable. He serves as a Board Member for the Selfless Love Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of foster children through advocacy and adoption. His philanthropic efforts reflect his dedication to making a meaningful impact beyond the design world.
Under Mark’s leadership, Marc-Michaels Interior Design continues to set the standard for luxury residential design, combining nearly 40 years of expertise, a focus on interior detailing, and a passion for excellence. His work inspires both his colleagues and clients, ensuring the firm remains at the forefront of the industry.
Thank you for joining us today! Can you share the story of what led you to pursue a career in commercial design?
I was always drawn to interior design and architecture from a young age while growing up in Upstate New York. I initially pursued a career in marketing, which led to an opportunity with Marc-Michaels. From there, I was able to align my professional path with my passion for design. Working at MMID has truly sharpened my skills and heightened my attention to detail. Over the past 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some of the best names in the industry. I’ve worked with iconic architects such as Murphy/Jahn and Michael Graves, as well as prestigious brands like The Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, and St. Regis. Our commercial clients often seek us out because we bring a residential sensibility and elevated level of detail to every space.
What’s the most interesting or amusing experience you’ve had in your career so far, and what lesson did you learn from it?
I’ve traveled extensively for the amazing projects I’ve been involved with, and travel stories are often the most memorable! When the market crashed in the early 2000s, we were fortunate to secure several large projects in Asia and Switzerland. These international connections required us to create highly detailed design packages and cross-reference plans to ensure clarity of design intent. Traveling to Asia back then was an adventure in itself — I have countless stories involving unusual foods and unexpected road trips across the country as we met with various developers. These experiences taught us how to navigate the international design world and, for me personally, the importance of staying flexible, rolling with the punches, and always finding humor along the way.
Do you have a favorite life lesson quote? Can you share a story about how it has been relevant in your life
“Don’t judge a book by its cover.”
Many of our clients are incredibly down to earth. While they may want beautifully designed spaces, they don’t always dress in a way that reflects their wealth. It’s a reminder not to make assumptions — some of our most discerning clients are also the most approachable.
As a successful business leader, which three character traits have been most crucial to your success? Can you share a story or example for each?
Collaborative / Team Player: The people I surround myself with are a big reason I’ve achieved success. My team in the office inspires me daily, and the consultants we work with are true partners in realizing each vision. In this industry, there’s no such thing as a one-person show.
Perceptive / Great Listener: Actually listening to your client seems simple, but it’s an underrated skill. It’s equally important to read the room during presentations — often, what’s unsaid reveals more than what is.
Respectful: Treating everyone involved in a project with the same respect — whether they’re clients, employees, or vendors — is vital. Every contributor plays a role in the success of a project.
Can you describe a recent project you completed and what your specific contributions were?
I work with a talented team of designers, and we all contribute in meaningful ways. My greatest strength lies in shaping the initial design story with my senior staff and serving as a sounding board throughout the process.
Recently, I collaborated on a private penthouse at The Ritz-Carlton in Naples alongside four other designers. I’m constantly pushing the team to stay ahead of the curve — whether through technology or by sourcing cutting-edge products. I love surprising and delighting our clients. There’s nothing more rewarding than presenting an idea and watching them fall in love with it. We’re lucky to work with clients who trust us, even if they can’t always see the vision from the start.
How do you approach balancing aesthetics and functionality in your designs?
It all begins with understanding the assignment. We invest a lot of time in the programming phase to ensure we fully grasp the functional needs of a project so we can seamlessly integrate them into the aesthetic. In commercial projects, the wide variety of high-performance fabrics available today makes this easier than ever. In fact, many residential clients now request performance fabrics for their high-use areas, too.
What is your design philosophy when it comes to commercial spaces?
Many of our commercial clients are drawn to us because of our background in residential design. They want their commercial spaces to feel more comfortable, personal, and inviting. I approach commercial projects with the same mindset: create warm, welcoming, and unique spaces that people want to spend time in.
Where do you draw your inspiration for your designs?
Inspiration is everywhere — from fashion to travel to daily life. I’m constantly inspired by the design of hotels and restaurants, which often take bolder approaches. I’ll even walk into a hotel just to see how it’s been designed. There’s always something new to learn or discover.
What strategies do you use to ensure your designs meet the needs of end-users?
Meeting a project’s needs comes down to asking a lot of questions early on. In the discovery phase, our main goal is to understand who the end-user is and what they want and need. Often, we have to predict how a space will function, and thanks to our collective experience, we get it right almost every time. Many of our clients are repeat clients, which makes the process easier — we already know their preferences, dislikes, and habits. Our longstanding relationships have even taken us to projects outside of Florida.
How do you approach sustainability in your commercial projects?
While sustainability is an important trend, not all clients prioritize it — especially when more sustainable options come at a higher cost. That said, when possible and within budget, we do incorporate eco-friendly products and practices into our work.
What impact do you think remote work and digital transformation will have on the design of commercial spaces?
It’s already having a major impact. Many of our clients now work remotely, which has changed how we collaborate. We’ve been delivering digital design packages for about eight years now, so adapting to virtual communication was a natural evolution for us.
What are the five things you believe are essential for creating a highly successful career in commercial design? Can you share a story or example for each?
1. Resilience — This isn’t an easy industry; you will face setbacks. The ability to bounce back is key.
2. Passion — Without passion, it’s hard to stay motivated in the long term. It fuels creativity and perseverance.
3. Resourcefulness — Sometimes there’s no precedent for what you’re trying to create. You need to be willing to figure it out without a manual.
4. Positivity — Challenges are inevitable, but staying optimistic helps you find opportunities in the obstacles.
5. Teamwork — Design is a team sport. Every project involves many collaborators, and success comes from working together toward a common vision.
What role do you think commercial design plays in community building and social interaction?
Commercial design plays a huge role in shaping how communities come together. From restaurants to hotel lobbies, these are the places where people gather and connect. It’s an honor — and a responsibility — to design these shared spaces.
How can our readers follow your work online?
Website: [www.marc-michaels.com]
Socials: [@marcmichaelsid] https://www.instagram.com/marcmichaelsid
Thank you for your time and excellent insights! We wish you continued success.
Mark Tremblay Of Marc-Michaels Interior Design On Five Things You Need To Create A Highly Succe was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.