The strength and success of creative ideas can be amplified when we work with the right partners. Sherwin-Williams has a substantial team of experienced subject matter experts—our local Designer and Architectural Account Executives—who are trained to provide guidance, products, and educational resources to help make connections for designers, architects, specifiers, and contractors.

“We’re here to bring their vision to life in the realm of specifications,” says Architectural Account Executive Amanda Lowery. “I love working with architects and designers to assist in choosing the correct products to make any space complete.” 

Take a closer look at the beautiful results that arise from working in tandem with the right people.

Account Executives use their deep knowledge of the design field, the Sherwin-Williams portfolio of quality products, and our extensive array of colors and trend insights to lighten the workload for designers. Across the United States and Canada, they guide and educate, address concerns and answer questions, and can provide a wealth of resources to expedite the design process.

“We have reps to assist with every stage of the project,” says Lowery. “Together we can assist from conception to completion, working with designers, architects, builders, and painters.”

For designer Iman Stewart, her working relationship with Designer Account Executive Victoria Young has made an enormous impact on everything from growing her knowledge to sourcing pieces and products.

“As a designer, it is not only the relationship with your client that is important but also your suppliers and trades,” she says. “The human connection, customer service, and knowledge from a Designer Account Executive makes the sourcing a much more enjoyable experience.”

Stewart says Young provides essential trend knowledge and samples for a smooth color selection process, ensuring that every choice is current and aligned with the client’s needs and expectations.

“We can be your single source for color and specification needs,” adds Lowery. “Our Color Marketing and Design Team can assist in creating custom color schemes and renderings, and we can help find the perfect product for the job.”

Stewart believes that having a go-to professional painter is one of the most crucial elements of project execution. “It has benefited us [to have] a professional who understands the value of time, customer service, and product knowledge,” she says.

Finding a trusted trade professional known for quality work is yet another area in which our Account Executives use their expertise and relationship-building skills. We asked Designer Account Executive Victoria Young how she goes about connecting designers to trade professionals in their markets. She says she often sets up small brunch and coffee events to bring together one or two designers and trade professionals. 

“We often discuss the type of work they each find most fulfilling and inspiring,” Young says. “We compare and contrast previous work as well as what their goals and expectations are for their future business/growth.” 

While Young does vet tradespeople to be sure they have professional websites, a social media presence, and a favorable reputation, these events aren’t just a one-way street. She encourages designers to come prepared, bringing with them all the detail they can provide about project needs—and their highest expectations as well.

Young has a passion for bringing people together who share a track record of quality custom work, a preference for quality products and resources, and commendable professionalism. And since Sherwin-Williams has one of the largest networks of pro painters in the industry, Account Executives are well-equipped to connect designers to professionals with whom they can build lasting, beneficial relationships. 

According to Lowery, Architectural Account Executives also work directly with specifiers, fabricators, general contractors, and applicators to ensure that the design vision is seen all the way through, every step of the process.

Lucila Diaz, founder and creative director at Harmony Sense Interiors in North Vancouver, BC, shared with us a recent new construction project that relied on strong collaboration for success. To create a functional and vibrant space for a busy family of five, Harmony Sense worked closely with the architect, builder Tectona Developments, Cyrus Jagosh from Pro Crew Painting, and the homeowners themselves to tailor every detail from the ground up.

“A new build is a long process that can only be achieved when there is a strong collaboration between [everyone] involved,” Diaz says. Together with design associate Patrizia Stirpe, they were able to create a one-of-a-kind dream space for the new homeowners, with a stunning and spacious kitchen, a harmonious color palette of green, blue, and gray, and black and gold accents for an added touch of sophistication.

Your Account Executive can be a real game changer in your design process, your business goals, and your own sense of confidence as you navigate the particular challenges of the job. They’re here to celebrate your vision and support you every step of the way.

“Designers inspire us every day with their creativity and out-of-the-box thinking,” says Young. “Their dedication to providing their clients with the absolute best materials and finishes, and the most space-saving and functional spaces, never ceases to astound. I am constantly in awe of the spaces they bring to life from a rough sketch on paper.”

This kind of support is essential to creative growth. And the experts at Sherwin-Williams are constantly looking to create new connections and beautiful things together. To get in touch with your local Account Executive, click here.

Top photo by Steve Woods.