What milestone did Elise de Wolfe accomplish in her interior design career?

Elise de Wolfe is credited with being one of the first interior designers to charge for her design services, a significant milestone in the professionalization of interior design as a recognized field. This achievement marked a shift from a practice that was often performed as a hobby or for social status, to a legitimate profession where designers were compensated for their expertise and work. By establishing a fee structure for her services, de Wolfe set a precedent that allowed future interior designers to pursue their careers in a more formalized manner, contributing to the development and recognition of the profession.

The other options, while related to the contributions of influential figures in the field, do not accurately reflect de Wolfe’s specific accomplishments. For example, she did not open the first interior design firm, nor is she known for founding an interior design school. Her book, while an important part of her legacy, primarily focused on her insights into home decor rather than architecture specifically. The impact of her decision to charge for her services resonates in the industry today, making it a notable milestone in the history of interior design.