Talia Grey's work place is decorated with a mash of chiffons, stained glass, oversized chandeliers "" anything that could spread aesthetic loveliness throughout a home. She fancies her 9 to 5 occupation.

"I love walking into a room and seeing the potential. Once you strip it down, you can make it into a work of art," said Grey.

The 20-year-old assistant of Stratham's interior design company Colleen Lake Inc., sits at a charming antique table to write proposals and rummages through fabric books.

Photo by Abigail Crocker

"I like keeping busy. It keeps me out of trouble," said Grey.

More than keeping her hands full, she hopes to take techniques of the trade with her after she moves on to become an independent interior designer or a professional organizer. She feels as though a hands-on, interactive environment is the best for her to learn skills needed in the work place. She's viewing her job as an apprenticeship, absorbing every facet of the profession.

"Most design firms want a college degree. But working here gives me enough training. I'm taking as much in as I can," said Grey.

She has the genetic pedigree to handle a creative job. Her father restores and tunes pianos. Her mother is a painter-turned-interior designer.

She insists that exorbitant amounts of money are not required to make a home beautiful. Someone can decorate their living space for as little as $500. All that's needed is an innovative eye and some rummage sales.

Looking to include natural aspects into her personal designs, she is partial to the "cottage beach" style using traditional items to express a rustic feel. Grey also uses seashells and beach glass to enhance the look.

"I like to incorporate what we live around in the house," said Grey.

HANGING OUT WITH

Talia Grey, 20

Stratham's The Look Interiors and Colleen Lake Inc.

March 19, 1 p.m.