If you have worked in interior design long enough, you have probably met the project.
The one that began with a beautiful mood board and somehow found its way to a surprise construction problem, a budget with a mind of its own and a client asking, “Is this normal?”
Sometimes the answer is yes. Sometimes the answer is, “Let’s sit down.”
That is exactly why ZUO Modern and 24/7 Creative Agency are bringing “Heartbreak to Happiness: Turning Remodel Disasters into Your Client’s Dream Home” to Fall 2026 High Point Market.
On Monday, October 19, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., interior design professionals will gather in the ZUO High Point showroom for an honest, practical conversation about what happens when a remodeling project goes off course—and how experienced designers help clients and projects find their way forward. The panel discussion will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by lunch, margaritas, networking and showroom tours through 2:30 p.m.
Fall High Point Market takes place October 17–21, 2026. If you are planning your Market schedule, add this one before another showroom appointment tries to claim the spot.
Heartbreak to Happiness: Turning Remodel Disasters into Your Client’s Dream Home
Monday, October 19 | 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Panel discussion: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Light lunch, margaritas, networking and showroom tours: 12:30–2:30 p.m.
ZUO Modern High Point Showroom
IHFC, Hamilton Wing, fifth floor, H543/W548
210 E. Commerce Ave., High Point, NC 27260
Because Interior Design Is Also People Management
Designers may select the materials, build the plans and guide the aesthetic, but difficult remodeling projects often require something else: calm leadership.
The panel will explore how experienced designers:
- De-escalate “disaster fatigue” when clients feel overwhelmedCommunicate clearly through delays, budget changes and difficult decisions
- Reset expectations without damaging the client relationship
- Pivot a design when the original plan is no longer possible
- Find creative opportunities inside unexpected project constraints
- Keep the work moving while recognizing the emotions surrounding it
Some projects encounter frustrating construction complications. Others begin in the aftermath of floods, wildfires or profound personal loss. Those experiences are not the same, and this conversation will not treat them as though they are. The goal is to have an honest discussion about how designers can respond with empathy, sound judgment and practical leadership when clients need all three.
Meet the Panelists
The conversation will be moderated by Serena Martin, founder of 24/7 Creative Agency, whose work across the design, furnishings and hospitality industries includes strategic partnerships, events and original industry programming.
She will be joined by:
- Marie Cloud, founder and creative director of Indigo Pruitt Design Studio, a Charlotte-based practice known for expressive, deeply personal interiors rooted in storytelling and wellness
- Yudi Kaufman, founder of Yudi Kaufman Design Associates, who brings together luxury residential design, business experience and a practical understanding of budgets, schedules and project delivery
- Lori Miller, founder of LGC Interior Design, an award-winning interior designer and wellness advocate whose client-centered work is informed by behavioral science, function and sustainability
Together, they will share real lessons from complicated projects—the decisions that worked, the conversations that mattered and the ways difficult circumstances sometimes led to stronger results.
Come for the Conversation. Stay for Lunch and Margaritas.
At ZUO, we believe difficult projects deserve honest conversations—and good conversations deserve lunch. Margaritas do not hurt either.
Following the panel, we invite guests to stay from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. for a light lunch featuring sandwiches and chips, along with margaritas, networking and guided tours of our High Point showroom. You will have time to meet the speakers, continue the conversation and connect with other interior designers without immediately rushing to the next stop.
You will also get a closer look at the ZUO collection. Sit in the chairs. Feel the fabrics. Look at the stitching, finishes, wood grains, metals and stone surfaces. Open the drawers. Ask about durability. We would much rather you explore than stand politely at the entrance.
Meet ZUO—and the People Who Make Projects Easier
For interior designers who are not yet familiar with ZUO, the event is an easy way to see how we work with the trade.
Our team can help you explore furniture, lighting and décor for residential, hospitality and commercial projects; check inventory and expected arrival dates; request swatches and specifications; discuss domestic COM, hospitality or custom-order needs; and identify options that fit your style, quantity, budget and timeline.
You can also meet your local ZUO sales representative, ask questions about an upcoming project and learn how our team supports designers before, during and after an order. We understand that specifying furniture is only one part of your job. You also need answers, accurate information and people who pick up the phone when a deadline is getting close.
And yes, Luis Ruesga, ZUO’s co-founder and CEO, will be there. Anyone who knows Luis knows two things: he has never met a bold color he was afraid of, and he can turn a quick showroom hello into a full design conversation. If you have not met him yet, there is a very good chance he will ask what you are working on—and may have an opinion before your margarita gets its salt rim.
That energy is part of who we are. ZUO is colorful, curious and serious about making it easier for our trade partners to do business.
Add ZUO to Your Fall High Point Market Plans
High Point Market schedules fill quickly, but this is more than another showroom stop. It is a chance to learn from fellow design professionals, talk honestly about a part of the job that rarely makes it into the finished photographs and meet people who understand the realities behind a beautiful space.
Join us Monday morning for the panel, then stay for lunch, margaritas, new connections and plenty of furniture.
Want to explore before Market? Learn more about the ZUO High Point showroom or contact the ZUO team with questions about your visit or an upcoming project.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Fall 2026 High Point Market?
Fall High Point Market takes place October 17–21, 2026. The complete Heartbreak to Happiness event will be held Monday, October 19, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The panel runs from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by lunch, margaritas, networking and showroom tours from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Where is the ZUO showroom at High Point Market?
ZUO is located in the IHFC building, Hamilton Wing, fifth floor, showroom H543/W548. The street address is 210 E. Commerce Ave., High Point, NC 27260.
Who should attend the panel?
The discussion is designed primarily for interior designers, but it will also be valuable for architects, stagers, hospitality professionals, project managers and other trade professionals responsible for guiding clients through remodeling and furnishing projects.
Do I need to RSVP?
Advance registration is strongly encouraged. Reserve your place through Eventbrite.
What happens after the panel?
Following the discussion, ZUO will host a light lunch with sandwiches and chips, margaritas, networking and guided showroom tours from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Guests can meet the panelists and ZUO team, explore the collections and ask questions about products, materials or upcoming projects.
