In the world of Interior Design, there are those who create spaces, and then there are those who truly understand the essence of what a space means to its inhabitants. Gordon Bass, the Principal Designer of GKB Interiors, falls into the latter category. His journey from being the principal of a pre-school to leading his own design firm is not just a career shift, but a testament to following one’s passion and finding fulfillment.
Gordon’s love for design traces back to his childhood, where his grandfather’s knack for curating vintage finds and designing their family cabin left an indelible mark on him. Spending time in a well-designed space taught Gordon the importance of one’s environment and how it can create lasting memories.
After successfully growing and expanding the schools he led as principal, Gordon reached a pivotal moment in his life. It was a simple question posed in an article that sparked his realization: “What do you think about before you go to bed at night?” For Gordon, the answer was clear – he found himself constantly pondering about furniture and beautiful spaces. With unwavering courage, he decided to take a leap and enter the world of Interior Design.
Embracing the philosophy of taking chances and having the courage to jump, Gordon embarked on his new journey. Establishing GKB Interiors, his own design firm, Gordon found joy in solving his clients’ problems and crafting spaces that not only met their needs but also reflected their personalities and aspirations.
Education played a pivotal role in Gordon’s transition. His time in the prestigious Portland Master’s Certification Program at Heritage School of Interior Design not only honed his design and technical skills but also provided him with invaluable connections within the design community and industry. Armed with knowledge and a strong network, Gordon knew exactly where to turn for his projects, setting the stage for his firm’s success.
With big dreams for the future, including getting his projects published and writing his first book, Gordon attributes his work ethic to the values instilled by his mother – the importance of hard work and perseverance. He believes that if you don’t look forward to going to work on Monday, it’s time to find a career that fills your soul.
Central to Gordon’s journey is the support of his Fall 2021 classmates from the Heritage School of Interior Design, fondly known as the Heritage 5. Together, they navigate the ups and downs of their respective careers, offering each other unwavering support and camaraderie.
As Gordon continues to shape spaces and inspire others with his story, his journey serves as a reminder that following one’s passion and embracing change can lead to a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. From the halls of a pre-school to the forefront of interior design, Gordon’s story is a testament to the transformative power of taking chances and following your heart.
To follow along with Gordon’s incredible Interior Design endeavors visit the GKB Designs and follow him on Instagram @GKBinteriors!