DEVINE
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Devine began her design career in a fairly unusual way. She was hired by what she describes as, "a very well-financed" start-up firm in Center City Philadelphia to completely design and decorate their new work space. "That included offices, backroom areas and client waiting areas - the whole works," she says. And it spoiled her, to some extent. "Of course," she adds, "there was no budget to worry about. It's a designer's dream." Since then, her work has been decidedly more restricted by costs, but no less rewarding. "I'm making a commitment to become a part of someone's life, as well as their lifestyle," she says. "That's what this business is really all about. You establish that relationship and try to work with the client as a partner. Some people want the designer to take the lead, and that's fine, too. Especially, if it's the first time they're using a professional. But every house, every room, every space is a new challenge.
