Designers are sought out for their talent for creating interiors with a point of view. Truthfully, they are much more than that. Interior designers are part decorator, urban archaeologist, tastemaker, historian, therapist, organizer, furniture designer, art consultant, inspirational speaker and family friend. Designers wear many different hats at various stages of a project. Therein lies the allure of the profession: There is hardly a moment to contemplate boredom. Chances are they may also be great barometers of the economy. Interior design is a service most consider a luxury and, thus, dispensable when there is an economic crunch.

The ups and downs of the economy — and this is true around the world — most definitely have an impact on the interior design arena. While a bullish economy opens the door to many exciting projects with generous budgets, an economic crisis leads to a scaling back of excess, which may push designers to do their best creative work.

The goal for a designer is to obtain the maximum effect with a reasonable budget. Clients are usually very thankful of any savings that do not affect the quality of the project. No need to be glum, though. Even in times of austerity, interior design and decoration are intended to be uplifting and a celebration of all things of beauty.

Today, the challenge for designers is to produce projects that are representative of our times, that are stylish and bring fun and enjoyment, but that are also cautious of trends. Trendy design has a short shelf life and will tire out soon with the next must-have "it" trend. Great design and decor will be around for a long while and endure the test of time.

In flipping through some current shelter magazines, some tendencies that are evident are eclectic interiors, minimalist contemporary and unique projects seemingly curated with very personal points of view. Keep in mind that most of the projects you see in glossy magazines have been completed over the past few years. While they are a great source of inspiration, projects designed today won't hit the general public for at least a year. I share this bit of insight because it is important that one realizes that projects should be designed to conform to your lifestyle and taste.

What goes around comes around. Like the ups and downs of the economy, Interior design fluctuates with furnishings and concepts from the past that are freshened up to represent the present. Color palettes that have been seen in the past are given new life and seem so very much today. Classic furniture pieces are reimagined with textiles and patterns. Rugs from shag to dhurries gain popularity as inexpensive floor treatments in lieu of classic Orientals.

The past meets the present in the marketplace, which is more diversified than ever as designers look to shed old rules in favor of new designs. Allow your designer's advice, your lifestyle and your budget to be the determining factors of your home's design. Today's creation — your creation — might be tomorrow's featured project.

Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Florida. To find out more about Joseph Pubillones, or to read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.