In a world increasingly shaped by remote work and evolving academic priorities, college interior designer Liz Toombs is carving out a unique niche.
Toombs is proprietor of one of the country’s niche design firms, PDR Interiors, focusing on college residential spaces, especially sororities and other aspects of Greek life. But she also has insights as to how any student can improve their personal living space.
As a part of a journalism class assignment recently led by instructor and Campus News publisher Darren Johnson, students asked Toombs about these topics via Zoom. The goal was to practice interviewing. The following quotes were gathered based upon the questions asked live during the interview and transcribed by Johnson, and, as there is no lead writer for this piece, organized by AI:
“From a business process standpoint, we were positioned well,” she reflects, highlighting how her firm seamlessly adapted to the challenges of the pandemic.
Toombs’ design philosophy centers on creating spaces that reflect the identity and lifestyle of their users. She places a strong emphasis on understanding her clients, stating, “We ask a lot of questions of the collegians and alumni about the space—what works, what doesn’t, and how we can create something better for them.” This commitment to tailored design has positioned her as a go-to professional for Greek life housing and beyond.
Designing for Academics and Versatility
Recently, Toombs has observed a shift in priorities among her clients. “We’re getting a lot of requests for more study spaces,” she notes. While social and recruitment-focused spaces were once the norm, academic support has become a driving force behind recent designs. “They want versatile spaces—places where they can study, collaborate, and thrive academically, which is ultimately why they’re there.”
Finding Her Niche
Toombs’ journey into designing for college students was serendipitous. “I was Greek in college,” she shares. “The times I had living in the chapter house were really fun and instrumental for me.” Yet, it wasn’t a planned career path. A chance connection with a fraternity in need of a new space led to her first Greek life project. “When you’re a young business owner, you say yes to anything,” she says. That first project opened the door to a new world, eventually leading to a robust network and a specialization in Greek life housing.
Toombs thrives on the opportunity to mentor students, particularly young women. “Supporting them at this juncture in their lives by creating spaces that work for them brings my career full circle,” she says.
Navigating Budgets and Supply Challenges
Like many in her industry, Toombs has faced the dual challenge of shrinking budgets and rising costs. “I try to leave emotion out of it and focus on finding the best product for the client,” she explains. Her approach involves prioritizing high-use items, such as sofas and chairs, while economizing on less critical elements like side tables or artwork.
The pandemic and subsequent supply chain disruptions have taught Toombs to anticipate delays and adapt. “We’re focusing on domestic suppliers to avoid issues with ports and often find they’re more affordable, too,” she says.
Giving Back Through Scholarships
Toombs’ personal life has also influenced her professional mission. After losing her mother to kidney cancer in 2012, she founded The Mary Estes Memorial Scholarship program at alma mater University of Kentucky to support students who have lost loved ones to cancer. “We’ve helped seven students so far,” she shares. “Knowing that these funds help them stay on track with their education is incredibly rewarding.”
Staying in Tune with Student Needs
Toombs’ ability to connect with college students is rooted in her proactive approach. “Having a younger staff and bringing in interns helps us stay in tune with what our clients like,” she explains. She also relies on social media and direct feedback from students to understand their preferences. “It’s about asking the right questions and really listening.”
Design Tips for Dorm Life
For students looking to personalize their dorm rooms, Toombs offers practical advice. “Oversized wall hangings, lightweight tapestries, and strands of lights can make a dorm feel homey instead of institutional,” she suggests. Affordable finds on platforms like Amazon and Etsy also go a long way in transforming a space.
The Future of Interior Design in College Life
While sorority houses have long embraced professional interior design, Toombs has noticed a growing trend of parents hiring decorators for dorm rooms, particularly in the South. “It’s fascinating to watch,” she says, though she’s unsure if the trend will persist. Regardless, Toombs plans to maintain a balance between residential and Greek life projects, ensuring both creative fulfillment and business stability.
For Liz Toombs, designing for college students is more than just a career—it’s a passion that continues to evolve, one campus at a time.
Learn more about Toombs and her design firm at pdr-interiors.com.
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