Balancing Budgets, Creativity, and Client Needs with Melissa Banko
Dot Dot Dot: The NINE dot ARTS Podcast
Episode 85
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A year of conditioning. A year of refining. And a year that was just plain “wacky.” These are just some of the ways in which NINE dot ARTS Co-founder and Chief Curator Molly Casey and Banko Design Founder and Principal Melissa Banko describe 2024 – as a time for adaptation, reflection, and strategic refinement. The pair discuss how economic shifts, supply chain issues, and evolving client expectations have prompted consultants of all types to navigate the delicate balance between offering flexibility to meet clients where they’re at, and maintaining creative integrity while protecting their own time. They also emphasize the value of early collaboration with art and design to create budget efficiencies and a stronger final product.
Additionally, this candid conversation explores how art and design are more than just aesthetic choices—they are essential amenities that drive engagement, enhance brand identity, and create immersive experiences. And cutting corners in these areas often leads to greater long-term costs, while intentional and early investment can make spaces not only inviting but unforgettable. Listen to the full conversation to learn how Banko Design is shaping the future of the design industry!
Discussed in the Episode:
Melissa Banko
Banko Design
The Banko Buzz Podcast
No More Amenity Wars—Renters Tell Us This Amenity Tops the Rest
Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience
Melissa Banko on LinkedIn
About Melissa Banko:
Melissa Banko, a graduate of The Art Institute of Atlanta with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, founded Banko Design in 2014. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, Melissa has honed her skills through roles at Rule Joy Trammell + Rubio and TVS Design. Melissa’s vision was to establish an unmatched design and procurement-driven studio that provides and creates “BETTER LIVING FOR EVERYONE.” With a focus in senior living, multifamily, and private country clubs, she set out to build a portfolio of studios where a vertically integrated model streamlined and uplifted the experience for owners, developers, and operators.
As Founder and Visionary at Banko Design and the BD Studio Collection of studios, Melissa is a tireless creative who drives concepts for interior design projects. Melissa helps clients push their limits and excels at delivering innovative solutions to any issues as they arise. Day-to-day, Melissa is a fearless leader to a 50+ person team of designers, interior architects, purchasing agents, marketing team, financial studio, warehouse staff, and administrative personnel. When she’s not managing the fleet or designing killer projects, you can find her with her beautiful family, volunteering, working out and concentrating on mental and physical wellness, or sharing her love of Jesus!
About Dot Dot Dot: The NINE dot ARTS Podcast:
Dot Dot Dot is the continuing conversation around art in the built environment. Episodes explore art, culture, placemaking, and more with a range of reputable art and business leaders. Tune in biweekly to learn how an original art experience can boost your business and make a positive social impact. Episodes are available wherever you get your podcasts!