When it comes to creating spaces that are equal parts inviting, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, Model55 has carved out a niche. In addition to offering exceptional design and attention to detail, what elevates our services in a competitive design landscape is our signature resident-focused process that begins with really getting to know the client.
“What sets us apart is the way we pay attention to the details and customize each project based off exactly what our client needs,” says Emily Dennison, vice president of Interior Design for Model55. “Our team cares about the success of the model and the feelings it will invoke on potential residents.”
We recently sat down with Emily to discuss Model55’s collaborative creative process, design trends that are shaping today’s furnished spaces, and what goes into creating a sense of “home.”
Q: Great to be here with you today, Emily! Can you tell us a little about yourself and your role at Model55?
Emily: I have been the VP of Interior Design at Model55 for 15 years, and I love working with our team to create environments that inspire and make people feel welcomed. I have a real passion for space planning; I actually enjoy tackling projects that others may see as difficult! My background is in senior living community design, visual merchandising, and retail space planning, which gives me a well-rounded approach to each project.
If you invite me over to your house, I will mentally rearrange things in my head for fun. I never judge someone else’s home design choices (unless you have art with dogs at a poker table–a design pet peeve of mine, haha).
Q: Duly noted! What design trends are shaping the way furnished spaces look today?
Emily: In 2025, the design world is really focusing on blending style, functionality, sustainability, and wellness. One of the most prominent trends is “biophilic design,” which connects interior spaces to nature. We’re incorporating more natural materials, earthy tones, and organic patterns to enhance the connection between people and their environment. Whether it’s in senior living spaces or model apartments, these design choices help create an atmosphere that promotes relaxation and wellbeing. Additionally, we’re seeing a strong emphasis on multifunctional furniture, which is perfect for spaces like model apartments where maximizing space is key.
Q: We know that Model55 does more than follow hottest trends. How do you get to know a client’s brand, audience, and goals?
Emily: We start the process by working closely with our clients through project vision calls. During these calls, our incredible account management team gathers all the necessary information about the client’s objectives, target audience, and design preferences. We then hold internal project kick-off meetings to review everything — from the community’s overall goals to the budget, and even the local competition. Once we have all this information, we create a design concept that aligns with their vision. This thorough, collaborative approach ensures we create spaces that perfectly reflect the client’s needs and appeal to the target audience.
Q: What sets Model55’s design process apart from competitors?
Emily: We’re dedicated to customizing every project based on exactly what our clients need. We pride ourselves on the level of attention we give to the details — no two projects are alike. Our design process is collaborative, and we’re always striving to understand the client’s vision, goals, and the feelings they want to evoke in potential residents. This focus on customization, along with our extensive knowledge of furniture installation and space optimization, is what helps Model55 stand out from other design firms.
Q: How does Model55’s turnkey approach help clients save time and reduce hassle?
Emily: One of the biggest benefits of our turnkey approach is that it takes all the guesswork and stress out of the design and installation. We handle everything — from sourcing and specifying furniture to managing deliveries and installations. We work with trusted wholesale vendors, so we can deliver everything to one location. Our skilled delivery and installation teams assemble and place everything in the space within one to two days. This streamlined process means clients don’t have to worry about coordinating different teams or managing logistics. If anything needs adjustment or a quick follow-up, we address it swiftly, allowing community staff to focus on their residents and other priorities.
Q: What’s your favorite part of transforming a space for a client?
Emily: My favorite part is seeing the excitement from our clients and the positive impact on the community. It’s incredibly rewarding to transform a previously difficult-to-sell unit into a space where potential residents can truly envision themselves living. There’s a sense of pride that comes from knowing we’ve helped make a space that’s not only beautiful but also functional — one that will enhance the lives of residents.
Thank you, Emily, for shedding light on Model55’s creative process!
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Emily Dennison has a wealth of experience in senior living interior design, commercial spaces, and model apartment solutions. With her expertise, Model55 provides a wide range of services — from multifamily model apartment solutions to senior living community makeovers.
Through customization, streamlining the design-to-installation process, and keeping a keen eye on the latest trends, Model55 ensures every project is not only visually appealing but also highly functional and move-in ready, so prospective residents are quick to call any space Model55 designs “home!”
