Southern Studio Interior Design

Last week, an article in the New York Times titled Interior Designers Help Homeowners Discover Styles, focused on the benefit of hiring an interior designer. It made me realize how confusing our industry can be. No wonder people have a hard time figuring it out! This article had some great tips for working with a designer.

The American Society of Interior Designers requires its members to meet strict education and work experience requirements. There is a great section on the website that explains the benefits of working with an interior designer.  It says, “When you hire an interior designer, you get the benefit of an experienced professional who can solve problems, help you avoid costly mistakes and, most importantly, create an attractive, affordable space designed specifically to meet your lifestyle needs.”

Last year, I documented the interior design process when I participated in the ASID Carolinas Showhouse.  When I started the project, it was an empty space with rough-ins for plumbing and electrical.

There were so many decisions to be made very quickly, including cabinetry layout and design, appliances, countertops, lighting, plumbing fixtures, tile design, wall finishes, furnishings, accessories….oh, and did I mention the budget? Great design is all in the details, so I began putting together the plan.

After a few months of diligent effort, here’s the end result (which hopefully demonstrates how a professional interior designer can contribute expertise and experience to a project).

I absolutely love what I do every day. How many people are so fortunate? But, I’m constantly challenging myself to push the limits of design, manage budgets creatively, and help clients meet their unique lifestyle needs. I create beautiful homes every day, but I always try to remember that my clients only have one chance to get their project right!

Today was close to perfect!  It all started with a long walk on the beach with Dan and my happy dog. The sun was shining and the dolphins were jumping….life is good.

This afternoon we visited the Coastal Living Idea House located in the beautiful Seawatch at Sunset Harbor community. Every Idea House I’ve ever visited brings inspiration and this one is no exception. The interiors were perfectly executed by Phillip Sides Interior Design located in Montgomery, Alabama.

The architecture of the home, designed by Guidry Coastal Architecture, is charming with exquisite detailing.

The entry is casual and dramatic.  I love the black and white photography that lines the staircase.

The great room is large and inviting….a calm, coastal retreat.

One of my favorite interior details is this small window seat alcove. The window treatment is a simple shutter lined with chicken wire and fabric accents.

The kitchen has a large center work island that also functions as a breakfast bar.  Notice the forged iron island pendant designed by Phillips Metal Works.

The upstairs loft is flanked by two sets of built-in bunk beds.  The peek-thru windows are home to small reading lights.

This home will be featured in the November issue of Coastal Living, but it’s open to the public for viewing through November 29th.  I promise it’s worth the visit!

Now, how to end my near perfect day?  Maybe another long walk on the beach and a glass of wine.  Life really is good!