Morraika Simonds Shares Her Design Inspo
Written By: Dr. Paula Trimble-Familetti
Photographed By: Bianca Simonian
Expert: Morraika Simonds
Credentials: Owner, An Interior Motive Designs LLC
This native daughter of the Coachella Valley uses her innate artistic ability to create beautiful indoor spaces. She focuses on the client’s desires and the experience of growing up in Palm Springs where she was exposed to what she calls “the best of the best!”
Q: How would you describe your style?
Morraika Simonds: Eclectic! I like many different styles, but it is not about what I like. It is what my clients want for their homes. My strength is to take their style and make a cohesive design come to fruition.
Q: How did you get your start in the interior design industry?
MS: I have always been artistic and creative. In 2003, my husband saw an advertisement for a two-year interior design program at University of California Riverside Palm Desert and urged me to go. I fell in love with the idea and completed the program in one year.
Q: What are people looking for in an interior designer?
MS: Someone that will listen and communicate. Someone who will create a design that is functional and who will tailor a design to the individual. Someone who will create a unique design that they may not be able to envision on their own.
Q: How did growing up in the Coachella Valley affect your feelings about interior design?
MS: Growing up in the Coachella Valley, I was exposed to big beautiful homes and unique architecture. We have the best of the best here and it taught me anything is possible.
Q: As a long time desert resident, how do you see your role in the community?
MS: I came from very modest beginnings. Growing up in the desert, I was provided many opportunities, and I see myself as an example to the young people growing up that you can start with nothing and create success for yourself.
Q: To what do you owe your success?
MS: I owe my success to my supportive family, my great clients, hard work and a little luck!
Getting Political: Simonds had the opportunity to do design work locally for a US Senator.
Launching Pad: One of her first and favorite jobs was in high school at Las Casuelas Nuevas in Rancho Mirage.
An Interior Motive Designs
760.424.9209
Photoshoot Location:
KBC by Benjamin Sullivan
73-790 El Paso
Palm Desert, CA 92260
760.864.8522
