Tastemaker Tuesday Archives | Page 2 of 3 |
Earlier this summer, Steve and Jill attended The Southern Summit, an amazing event hosted by The Southern Coterie, which founded by two extremely talented women, Cheri Leavy and Whitney Long.
Cheri and Whitney were sensational hostesses of The Southern Summit and after attending such a lovely, well- thought-out and fun event, we knew they’d be a wonderful team to feature as Tastemakers! To our delight, they agreed to participate and we couldn’t be more thrilled to highlight them as our newest Tastemakers for the blog for steve mckenzie’s…
Cheri & Whitney
About Cheri:
For Cheri, born with a knack for instantly connecting with people, The Southern C seemed like a natural progression. From novice beginnings, writing a “cousin newsletter” to operating a successful online and print publishing business with her husband, it’s Cheri’s enthusiasm and inspiration that has made The Southern Coterie and its live events – The Southern C Summits – a must visit for Southern entrepreneurs looking to make valuable connections. Constantly on the lookout for the newest talent in the South, Cheri has an authentic passion for meeting, greeting and giving entrepreneurs a platform to speak about their brands. An eighth generation coastal Georgia native, Cheri splits her time between Athens and St. Simons Island.
About Whitney:
After a successful career as a scout, stylist and contributing editor for some of the biggest names in print media like Coastal Living, Southern Accents, Southern Living and Better Homes & Gardens plus various special interest titles, Whitney took time off to focus on her favorite job – being a mom to four – but the scouting didn’t end there. Whitney draws on her years of curating unique places and people for the lifestyle magazine industry to create connections, find strategic partners and cultivate a talented team of writers and presenters. Born in the quintessential southern town of Elba, Alabama, Whitney now calls the quaint seaside village of St.Simons Island, Georgia home.
Cheri & Whitney
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
C: Colorful, Eclectic, Keeper – I am a keeper of family treasures – china, silver, linens, books, old print press blocks and tools (my husband is fourth generation newspaper business).
W: Relaxed, Cozy, Lived-in
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
C: Our cottage on East Beach, St. Simons Island was on the Christ Church Tour of Homes years ago and I loved getting ready for that tour. I worked with several talented interior designers to pull it all together – Mary-Bryan Peyer, Andrew Downs, Lisa Ellis Design and my mother-in-law Sudy. I have been collecting original art since post college and have joked that I drove my mom’s hand-me-down cars but always had an art payment versus a car payment monthly. This was thanks to my mentor Millie Wilcox of Left Bank Art Gallery who let me pay in installments. Millie created a sheet for tour attendees that turned it into an art exhibit detailing the artists and history of many of the pieces. She even researched pieces from my ancestors so it turned into an archive of my art I will treasure forever.
W: Our living room – giant sectional sofa where all six of us can squeeze in for family tv time watching some of our favorite shows like Shark Tank, America’s Got Talent and The Goldberg’s. That is when and where I am my happiest which makes it my favorite space.
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
C: Travel, antiquing, magazines, blogs, instagram and family treasures.
W: So many friend and creatives that I have met through The Southern C and Southern C Summit! I follow their blogs, check out their websites and social channels and am continually inspired!
Bear Bryant
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
C: Southern journalist, author and entertainer Julia Reed, newspaper icon Kathryn Graham and author Ernest Hemingway – don’t you wish you were invited too?
W: My Daddy who passed far too young, Bear Bryant (this would be a pick for my Dad – would LOVE to hear that conversation) and Dolly Parton – who wouldn’t want the fabulous Dolly at their dining room table? Can you tell I’m a Southern girl with these icons?
Whitney’s Great Aunt Kate’s vintage flame mahogany breakfront.
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
C: I love a good parsons table – so versatile. I have created a few with Andrew Downs. We did one for the cottage with Hermes orange Edelman leather he had left over from a project in the 80s – ahhh so fab. So then in Athens, we did Tiffany blue suede on one with a short nesting table beneath in blue skin for all of my coffee table books.
W: My great aunt Kate’s vintage flame mahogany breakfront – in addition to holding dishes, it holds lots of memories of Sunday post-church lunches and holiday family meals.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
C: I am a rule breaker for sure. I do what feels right so my style is very layered and nuanced with odd objects on brackets on the wall and I collect majolica so it is everywhere. I love old rugs and have orientals and some incredible Turkish kilims from a neat local on St. Simons, Vickie Myers, who sells them from her extensive travels. Her warehouse is a blast to dig in. That was another payment plan in my thirties. I can’t say enough that if you love beautiful things and you are on a budget then work with vendors. You would be surprised what people will do to help a young collector. I am a firm believer in textured layers but there is no rhyme or reason to my process. I buy what I like and I am not matchy matchy so I blend a lot of different pieces.
W: No, I think it’s all about a balanced mix and what is visually appealing to your eye but also taking into consideration what elements work well in each particular space.
Colorful pillows add a POP!
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
C: I am into coupe glasses right now because of my friend, Brian Hart Hoffman’s new book, The Coupe: Celebrating Craft Cocktails and Vintage Collections I am over my dated kitchens and bathrooms. The struggle is real if you love 1930s homes.
W: I’m over the staged, too-many pillows look with the karate chops in the tops. I am into relaxed and streamlined. A few pillows with a colorful bold pattern pack more punch! When I want to sit, I want to sit without removing 10 pillows to do so. Same goes for my bed!
Oyster painting by artist Cathie Parmelee
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
C: Clearly for me as I have expressed above – art is everything to me. My friend who is an interior designer, Cullen Osteen collaborates with me on my Athens home and teases me that most of her clients buy art to fill a space and I buy art and look for the space. Needless to say, I am a proponent of the gallery hang.
W: Art can serve to anchor a room and also serve as the jumping off point for the design scheme. I love sizable statement pieces – kind of like a great statement necklace.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
C: My husband Vance of course. A healthy supply of wine and hopefully some fabulous stemware. My two golden retrievers. I don’t think I would do well on a deserted island.
W: My iPhone so I could book a plane ticket back home!
Scene from The Southern Summit
Thank you so much Cheri and Whitney!! Not only did we have a fabulous time at The Southern Summit this past May, we’re so happy to have had to opportunity to get to know you both better and share a bit about you here on the blog for steve mckenzie’s!
Now, who’s already planning their visit to Sea Island for The Southern Summit 2017?!?
Sounds the trumpets – we’re absolutely thrilled to be featuring our friend, and acclaimed stylist and entertaining expert, Annette Joseph as our latest Tastemaker here on the blog for steve mckenzie’s!!
If you’re a part of the home design and luxury lifestyle industry, you already know who Annette is. But, for those of you who may not be familiar, we recently shared a bit about her and her upcoming photography workshop, taking place this fall in Berlin, where Steve will be joining in as the branding and social media expert, along with Christina Wedge, an amazing lifestyle and interiors photographer.
In addition to her photography and style workshops, Annette has also authored a fantastic book, “Picture Perfect Parties,” which we urge you to check out!
If you can’t tell already, we’re so excited to have this opportunity to share all about Annette with you – so, without further ado, we give you the newest member of our Tastemaker family:
Annette Joseph
Annette Joseph is an expert on entertaining, cooking, and styling. She regularly appears on The Today Show and Martha Stewart Sirius Radio. Her recipes and party ideas have been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, Epicurious, DesignSponge, MSN, The Huffington Post, Southern Living, and Woman’s Worldamong others. Annette now enjoys sharing the many ideas, tips and tricks she has gained as a nationally recognized photo stylist/producer specializing in lifestyle editorial images for magazines. With over 20 years experience, her expertise includes photo styling for interiors, food propping and special production projects. Annette currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and 2 children.
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
Utilitarian, Masculine, Italian
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
Oh gosh, there are so many. But I think shooting my own cookbook, Picture Perfect Parties, was probably the most exciting. Having total control of the aesthetic is a dream come true for a photo stylist and producer. My team was amazing we used my home, the home of Bill Peace and Innerpieces Antique Warehouse as locations. We pretty much had a blast everyday!
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
I live in Italy part of the year it’s a huge part of my life and my style inspiration.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Only three? Okay… Wes Anderson, Pablo Picasso, Julia Child
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
I love chairs, I own lots of them. I actually have to stop myself from buying chairs.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
I am pretty much from the gut. I have a natural ability to mix textures and colors in a design composition. Having said this, I hate color themes, so I tend to design with textures in mind not color. Italians are not about color themes at all when they decorate, they are more about textures and color composition and quality, which is completely different than designing with just color in mind, it may be why I love Italian design so much. I feel like getting away from strict color themes is something American designers need to work on.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
Right now I am designing our new home in Italy. Although it’s over 500 years old, so it’s not exactly new, but I am into external wiring and vintage light switches. Over? I am over Jonathan Adler, he needs to update his home furnishings collection. I dislike whimsy in interior design.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
We collect photography so that’s a must in every home. My father was an oil painter so only original artwork has a place on our walls.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
Olive oil, that way everything would be tasty and it’s a great moisturizer as well.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
The same advice I offer photo stylists, apprentice or assist someone you admire for at least 2 years. Travel as much as you can. Put in your time, work hard, read a lot, listen, and pay attention to details. Be humble, and kind and professional. Everything takes time, so be patient. In this day and age everything is so immediate but learning an artistic craft and feeling confident takes time. Enjoy the process, life is a journey, not a competition.
As much as we appreciated Annette before this little q&a session, we love her even more now – and have realized more similarities than we initially thought… Her love for chairs being one of those areas. Steve is addicted too!
After reading this post, you’re probably as taken with Annette as we are – and for good reason! Meet and learn from her in person, along with Steve and Christina, at her Berlin photographic workshop. It promises to be an unforgettable experience!!
Thank you so much to Annette for her participation in this series and for her friendship and inspiring work!
We’re back with another fun Tastemaker feature, and this time around, we’re featuring a shelter publication and design industry maven – Zoë Gowen! She’s a true gem of a person, and someone Steve has known since his Larson-Juhl days. We appreciate her love of art and strong Southern vernacular. We think you’ll enjoy getting to know Zoë and her take on interior design…
Zoë Gowen
As Southern Living’s Senior Homes Editor, Zoë Gowen canvases the South looking for the best in decorating and inspiration for the magazine’s 16 million readers. She has helped to launch the careers of designers, stylists, architects, and other rising creative talents in the world of design and architecture. Before joining Southern Living, she worked at an art gallery in Washington, D.C., specializing in museum-quality, nineteenth- and twentieth-century art. A graduate of Sewanee: University of the South, she majored in American Studies with a focus in Southern Culture and Art History.
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
Bright, relaxed, classic
Design by Janet Gregg
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space?
Growing up, you’d always find me sprawled out reading in the living room. It sat in the front of the house with a lot of windows on one side and had two big arched openings to the dining room and the hallway on two other sides, but not many people would go in there. It was the perfect place to be close to the action, but not overwhelmed by it (there were always a lot of people and a lot of activity in my house). Thinking about it now and picturing my current house, you can easily see bits my old favorite room’s cantaloupe colored walls and the chintz covered sofa.
Design by Richard Norris courtesy of HouseBeautiful
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
I’d honestly say that I get a lot of interiors inspiration from reading magazines both new ones and the one-zillion that I own. My friends and co-workers are an interactive source of inspiration. They never fail to encourage (or sometimes discourage) me from executing whatever crazy idea I’m pondering. Lastly, I can’t understate how many ideas I get just from people watching. I actually look forward to airport layovers. There are so many people from all walks of life to observe!
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Oh wow! This is a fun question. I could take this in a lot of different directions. First off, apologies to all of my deceased family members who are reading this! You know I’d prefer to catch up with you all. For mass reader appeal though, I’ll limit my dream dinner party guests to famous dead Southerners since I work for Southern Living.
Thomas Jefferson – I’m a big history and architecture nerd, so I’d really like to ask him about his design decisions in the 18th century. Without him, would our government buildings all look like Colonial Williamsburg?
Flannery O’Connor – Is there anyone with a drier sense of humor? She could also give me some writing tips.
Elvis – He’d have to wear his white Vegas jumpsuit. I’m from Memphis and a big fan of his and Graceland. Ideally, this dinner party would take place in the clouds inside the Lisa Marie, but we wouldn’t eat peanut butter and banana sandwiches (yick). Instead, we’d have my favorite foods: chicken salad, shrimp remoulade, watermelon, and chocolate chip cookies.
Design by Celerie Kemble; Photo by Laurey W. Glenn courtesy of SouthernLiving.com
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
A sofa. It really is where I spend the most time when I’m home. I believe whole-heartedly that a sofa should be both comfortable and pretty. Yes — it’s possible! I just got back from High Point Market and I’m finally going to pull the trigger on a very chic sectional. I’m debating between a floral pattern, a stripe, or a solid coral with trim. Please advise on your thoughts in the comments below.
Design by Ada Saul; Photo by Laurey W. Glenn courtesy of SouthernLiving.com
6. Do you recommend people follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc.?
I think the only “real rule” is balance: offset pattern with some whitespace to prevent visual chaos, mix in modern pieces with a trove of antiques to keep your house from feeling like a museum, and so on.
Design by Ruthie Sommers
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
I hate to preach, but decorating is too expensive to follow trends. You should really figure out what you love and buy from there. Of course, I do fall into trend traps though. Right now, I’m obsessing over daybeds and painted faux-finishes like stries and tortoise. Bold geometric patterns and bright lacquers are on my back burner.
Courtesy of Barton Perrira
8. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
My eyeglasses. I wouldn’t be able to see anything without them and they could also help me start a fire.
Design by Richard Norris courtesy of HouseBeautiful
9. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
Keep your eyes and ears open to everything. The more you see the better for you to develop your eye. When it comes to getting a job, approach the best people. Once you’re there, make yourself indispensable to ensure you stay there.
That last tidbit is smart – become indispensable. Right on! Oh, and we love Zoë’s dream dinner party foods… Bring on the shrimp remoulade and watermelon!
Thank you, thank you to Zoë for allowing this glimpse into her design-centric mind from the perspective of a magazine editor. And a very happy Tastemaker Tuesday to all!
Y’all. This month’s Tastemaker is a doozy… An interior designer whose spaces make a profound statement. When you see a room of his, you know the designer behind it – even if you can’t explain how that’s possible. He has a Rolodex of celebrity clients and is a phenomenal TV personality to boot. You may have even seen him hosting some of our favorite HGTV specials. This month’s Tastemaker for the blog for steve mckenzie’s is Brian Patrick Flynn!
Check out this fantastic video all about “Who is Brian Patrick Flynn.” Not only will you gain great insight into who Brian is, but he offers a bit about what makes him tick and all that goes into his business and designs:
Steve first became aware of Brian and his immense talent (and equally large personality) back during his tenure with Larson-Juhl, when the company worked with Brian to provide art and custom framing for some of his makeovers for TBS’ “Movie & A Makeover.” Now, being active members of Atlanta’s design industry, Steve and Jill have the pleasure of visiting with Brian Patrick Flynn at many local industry events and always find his projects so inspiring!
We invite you to read on and learn a even more about this exciting Tastemaker – and if you don’t love him already, we know you will at the close of this Tastemaker post…
Brian Patrick Flynn
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
American, Collected, Comfortable
Brian’s living room in HGTV’s Dream Home 2016
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
My favorite project to date is the 2016 HGTV Dream Home. It’s a 3,600 square foot home located on the water in Florida, where I’m from. We went against traditional Florida waterfront style and took an un-cliche approach. Kind of Hamptons meets Florida. I’m really proud of all that was achieved with this house and this new style I’ve been playing with.
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
Anything Thomas O’Brien has ever done and all of his products.
I’m also inspired by anything out of Scandinavia, Norwegian design, the palette of Iceland – it makes me rethink neutral.
World travel with an American spin also plays a role.
I love thinking of new ways to use the red, white and blue color palette.
Finally, mid-century modern design with industrial, rustic touches.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Tina Fey, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Mark Zuckerberg
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
I always love to include on beat up, worn wooden chair in every space – even a bathroom. There’s something about an old chair stacked with books or towels. A vintage country, wooden, Americana chair is it.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
Yes, for every smooth surface brought in to a space, I add a combination of super warped, nubby textures to tone the shiny down with the dull. I do this even in glamorously styled spaces. This helps make it more livable.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
Into = using blush tones for interiors. It’s fun and hasn’t been so popular to be worn out.
Over = I’m toning down the use of chevron and zigzag until that trend dies down.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
Artwork is the most important aspect of of any space. It’s always the one thing I’ll splurge on. The element of something completely original on the walls elevates everything else up in the space. A close second, in terms of importance in a space, are window treatments; they’re a great way to bring together colors in a room.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
WiFi. I can’t live without any connection – without it I’d go berserk. Next on the list would be a super comfy down stuffed pillow. We literally have like eight amazingly fluffy down bed pillows.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
Never ever, ever compare yourself or your work to another designer. Some designers have bigger budgets, some cater to one aesthetic – there’s a place for every single one of is. The same person that hires me wouldn’t have hired someone else. No one’s vision and no one’s work is alike. We all have different design philosophies.
Jill, Brian and Steve in the steve mckenzie’s showroom.
We appreciate Brian’s advice for sure – and it’s something that can be a real challenge in our industry. It’s so easy to compare your work to other designers, but if we can all appreciate each designer’s unique voice, there will be a place for all.
Thanks to Brian for being our latest Tastemaker, and inspiring us with each new space he creates!!
Our friend, James Wheeler, of J. Wheeler Designs has agreed to be featured as our latest Tastemaker for the blog for steve mckenzie’s and we couldn’t be more thrilled! His unique take on design often leaves us speechless and his use of color and texture is just phenomenal. Plus, he’s just a really nice person to boot. We feel so lucky we’ve had the opportunity to get to know him, and his work and we’re waiting with baited breath to see his next project! Please read below to learn a bit about James and to see his responses to our fun Tastemaker questions…
James Wheeler
A Georgia native, James founded J. Wheeler Designs in 2012 after a decade of experience designing residential interiors. His classic meets contemporary style has been injected into small and large scale spaces throughout Atlanta and the Southeastern United States. James’ methodology is led by the philosophy that the home should be a haven and the primary centerpiece for life’s moments. His work has been featured in Elle Décor, House Beautiful, Real Simple, Rue, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles and other national shelter publications.
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
Timeless, Livable, Sophisticated
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
I have a number of projects that I would consider my favorite and it seems that each project we complete quickly becomes my favorite. I am particularly fond of a project we recently completed in San Francisco – a full remodel of a classic Bungalow in Berkeley which began with the kitchen and master bath. The primary reason I love this project is because of the clients. They are the most amazing couple with the best energy. They are open to learning about all aspects of design and they really enjoy the process. Their energy and excitement has made this project easy and fun which can sometimes be challenging when living in the middle of a remodel. The design is pretty amazing, too!
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
I try my best to remain open to everything around me since inspiration can be drawn from some of the most unexpected places. Some of my go-to sources of inspiration include fashion photography, nature, travel, music and a really good hotel.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Jackie O for the history and sophistication, Joan Collins because I grew up watching Dynasty and it reminds me of a time of excess and I would want her to share those stories and Adele because of her humor and to provide some quality entertainment.
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
A really good sofa. One with great design but more importantly one that is comfortable. Preferably an aged leather or upholstered down.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
I am not classically trained in design so everything I know about the field is self-taught. I do not follow any particular set of rules when designing a space and I am not afraid to mix things that are unexpected or that may not be technically correct. My primary goal with any space is that it functions for my client’s needs and that it creates a sense of peace and order. I want my clients to fall in love with the spaces they entrust us to design every time they walk through the door.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
Loving – Color – it’s so wonderful to see a return to color in every aspect of design Over – The color Gray. A beautiful neutral that is timeless when used properly but completely overdone at the moment
8. How does artwork fit into your designs? Artwork is a must for all of our designs. When I’m meeting with a client for the first time I like to understand if they are collectors or if they are looking to build a collection and their views on art. I find clients that are not collectors typically just aren’t as informed about art. For these clients we have the privilege of exposing them to the importance of original art and how it can really impact a space. It’s always fun to see them drawn to a particular piece or artist and then bring that into their spaces. For our clients that are collectors, we have the great opportunity to incorporate these pieces into our work and it often serves as a jumping off point for our designs. My belief is that art personalizes a space and makes it unique to that individual so it’s important to bring into any space we design. 9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
A telephone with an unlimited battery supply and a strong signal so I could call for help and be whisked away to the nearest boutique hotel for a terribly indulgent meal.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
Find a good mentor, someone you trust who can give you candid advice and be boldly honest with you. A great mentor can make all the difference and I have found them to be invaluable in my career. I would also say that you can never underestimate the power of relationships in this business. Carve out time in your schedule to spend time really investing in relationships and cultivating them. You will draw upon these relationships more than you will ever know in the design industry so be kind to people and really spend time getting to know who they are.
That fish wallpaper above a bold and amazing selection! It’s those kind of design elements that have made us true fans of James’ work. We can also attest that he follows his own advice on creating relationships… And we agree – especially here within our local design community, which sometimes feels more like a family, ha!
Thank you James for being our latest Tastemaker!
We were lucky enough to have been introduced to the memorable duo of Eric and Ruthann Ross through our friend Suzanne Cooper, from Traditional Home, at the Design Bloggers Conference back in early 2015. As soon as we heard they were also a southern minded husband/wife team in the interior design business, we knew our introduction was kismet – we were destined to meet!
Eric and Ruthann Ross
Much like Steve and Jill’s partnership, Eric is the designer, while Ruthann is his undying supporter and team member in both work and life. Eric’s immense talent for design is put to work through Eric Ross Interiors, based out of Franklin, Tennessee, but their clients span the Southeast and beyond. Ross’ interiors are luxurious, while still being livable and portraying their client’s unique personalities. Eric Ross Interiors’ traditional aesthetic is anything but stuffy, and the spaces created are as warm and welcoming as this sweet couple… We think you’ll enjoy getting to know them as this month’s Tastemaker team:
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
Ruthann: Welcoming, Classic and Cheerful – I am always s so thankful when people tell us our home is warm and comfortable. We want people to have that special, cherished feeling when they enter.
Eric: Lush, layered, relaxed…Can you use those words together? People always tell me how beautiful my rooms are, but that they are so comfortable to be in. That’s what I try to achieve with each project.
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
R: Since Eric is the designer, I always say that I’m just lucky I get to live in his showroom. Not may girls get that luxury. My favorite room in our home is the front porch – it’s where all our best times with friends take place!
E: It’s funny you ask that, because we are about to launch our new website, ericrossinteriors.com, and I’ve been reviewing all the photos and videos, so I’m attuned to my current body of work. I would say the stairwell I did for the 2014 Traditional Home O’More Show House is my favorite project to date. If you’ve followed my work at all, you’ll know I’m obsessed with blue and white and I was able to incorporate it into this space. I used a lot of my go-to decorating “tricks,” if you will. Upholstered doors, colored trim, chinoiserie, brass fixtures and accessories… All of these elements are so on trend AND they are my personal favorites, so to get to employ all of them into one space was fun and visually stimulating.
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
R: I’m inspired by flowers, and the beauty of God’s creation. We love to spend time in the North Carolina mountains. I always feel like the waterfalls, mountain creeks, mossy green rocks, and the lush rhododendron just feed my soul.
E: I’m always inspired by color. You know, a few years ago EVERYTHING was beige and brown. Today, color is having a moment. But, I have always gravitated toward colorful interiors. So today, with all of the fabric houses coming out with color filled collections, it’s just fun to decorate.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
E: These questions make me crazy… I don’t want any dead person at my parties! Seriously, I would only have close friends, no one you would know, I’m sure. I’m really not a stalker of celebrities of any kind. My wife and I have a close group of friends we have cocktails with about every other week who I love to laugh with. We always know we’ve had a good time when the next morning we have the strangest google searches on our phones.
R: I agree with Eric… My dream guests are my dearest friends.
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
E: Without a doubt, I wouldn’t live without my sofa. It’s unbelievably comfortable. It’s from Wesley Hall out of Hickory, North Carolina. They make the most comfortable pieces and they are all bench made. Every piece has several signatures on it of the craftspeople who made it. I place them in all my projects because I know I won’t have a comfort issue with the client. And, they are beautiful, so it’s a win-win.
R: Well, since Eric always hogs the sofa, I’d have to say… my porch swing. I love to take naps on a Sunday afternoon.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
E: Of course there are no hard and fast rules. Interesting rooms come from breaking rules. But, for me, I do have a formula. Drapes are almost always a print and that’s where I start. Why spend the money on drapery that doesn’t say something beautiful? So, after the print is a chenille or velvet. I like chenille sofas with a velvet welt or pillow, usually the texture of mohair – this is lovely to lay your head on. I always think of comfort and how the upholstery will be lived in, not just looked at. Geometrics of some sort are in the mix, as well as a beautiful Persian rug, if the budget allows.
R: I mix textures by mixing dishes and serving pieces with pretty linens, candles and flowers. Setting a beautiful table or bountiful buffet is my palette and I think an abundance is best! It entertains your guests and allows you to see the special elements. They know you’ve worked hard to make it special just for them.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
E: I’m into “pretty” rooms and have been my whole career. The trend now is toward these “pretty” rooms which are currently defined as traditional decor of florals as a lead and color on the walls. I was never into industrial or re-purposed. I’m glad it is waning. I heard one of my design heroes, Mario Buatta, say in a talk once that he saw a lot of schizophrenic decorating. I think he was talking about this “eclectic” wave we saw a couple of years ago with a lot of collage walls and dragging everything you ever found at a road side flea market into rooms and calling them collected. It isn’t collected, it’s desperate.
R: I am over mason jars, burlap and chalkboard… It was fun for a while, but I’m done!
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
E: Ok, I get this question a lot from my clients. Artwork is so personal and expensive, the client really had to select pieces they love. When I create spaces, I always select and install affordable art, either giclees, prints or canvas transfers. This way, the client gets a completed room. If they really want a special piece to to be able to collect art over time, they don’t have a terrible amount of money invested in what I call “decorator” pieces and they can replace them as they find the perfect pieces for them.
R: My favorite piece of art is the painting that hangs in our bedroom. It’s a nature scene with the sweetest little birds tucked in the branches and grass. I just love it and requested it hang facing our bed so I could see it from my pillow.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
E: Air-conditioning… it’s a must!
R: Ice cream…Nothing better to drown your sorrows and chase away the blues.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
E: I really think you learn a lot from working in retail. The public will throw every terrible trait of a difficult client at you in a short amount of time. You learn how to read people quickly and come up with a solution to their problem, which is really what this job is about – listening and resolving dilemmas.
R: Be prepared for HARD work. My husband has to sweat, haul trash and lug loads of stuff. It is NOT all glamorous – if you are a diva, you’ll never make it! You can’t be too good to do the grunt work.
Those are two excellent bits of advice – especially the bit about grunt work from Ruthann. That’s for sure! And we’d love to see Jill and Ruthann pair up to create a tablescape or buffet spread – can you imagine?! It’d be out of this world!
A BIG thank you to both Eric and Ruthann for taking time out of their busy schedules for this interview. We’re always especially excited to share the inner workings of other husband/wife design teams out there!
They’re the dynamic husband and wife duo behind Selamat Designs, a fantastic, all natural product line new to the steve mckenzie’s showroom – Thatcher and Shannon Davis. After reading their interview for this blog feature we believe you’ll be as wowed by them as we are. And, because the guiding force behind our brand is also a husband-wife team, we felt there was some synergy here for sure. Not to mention this team creates some amazing, and truly responsible and sustainable products – they’re Tastemakers for sure!
Thatcher & Shannon Davis
We are a husband and wife owned natural materials company based in San Francisco. We design everything in house and manufacture where the materials and expertise are grown. We are artisnal, interested in the craft of furniture making as much as the design of attractive, inventive, useful and unique products. We care about the growth of the materials, harvesting, manufacturing, finishing, packaging, and product life. We work hard on our own brand and on others, we are small and nimble, boutique, and forward looking.
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
Eclectic, colorful, and individual
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
We have been working with an Australian Design Archive, Florence Broadhurst, for the last year interpreting fabulous patterns from the 1960’s and 70’s into furniture and accessories. It has pushed us in ways that we as a team have loved.
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
Not to sound cheesy but for us, it’s nature and the life of our family. We live in a place where we interact nature on a daily basis and it influences our materials, our shapes and our finishes. We are also inspired by the practical nature of living with products in a family setting. We don’t want anything too precious and always have sand on our floor….
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Florence Broadhurst, Bono, and Georgia O’Keefe
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
A basket to keep our shoes in by the front door.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
No rules, that is my rule. Showing your personality is essential. Take risks, surround yourself with things that mean something to you personally. You can always create a story in a space that incorporates things that seem disparate.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
I am always into rattan, it is the perfect material, hand-made, sustainably grown, endlessly useful. I love it outside, go ahead and let it biodegrade.
I am a little over the gray in Restoration Hardware…
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
Like all great inspiration, art from the basic to the masterful is the best fodder.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
My family… husband, three kiddos.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
Be honest, be professional, and work hard to earn the respect of your clients, your vendors and your community of peers. Don’t be afraid to try something different, people will hire you to give them permission to do something in their space that they would never have the nerve to do on their own.
We love that last bit – it’s amazing how courageous clients can be with a professional at the helm!
Thanks so much to Shannon Davis of Selamat for offering a bit about herself and her business to our readers. There’s so much to love about the Davis’ and their unique brand of products. We’re proud to carry the Selamat Designs line at steve mckenzie’s and invite you to pop in and take a look at all they offer.
She’s an absolutely delightful person and award-winning designer… We first met Patricia McLean when she selected some fabulous Grange Napoleon chairs for her space in the ASO Showhouse earlier this year and were immediately smitten.
After learning more about her, and her work, we knew she’d be a wonderful “Tastemaker” to share with you all here! Luckily, she was agreeable, and her “Tastemaker Tuesday” feature is below – enjoy…
Patricia McLean
Patricia McLean founded Patricia McLean Interiors, Inc. in 1985. Considered a true, traditional designer, Patricia specializes in the customization of paint colors, finishes and fabrics and layering of antiques and accessories. Guiding clients architecturally through construction to ensure the “bones” are correct for furniture placement and flow is paramount to her design philosophy. A graduate of the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in furnishings and interiors, Patricia was selected to restore the Georgia governor’s mansion ballroom. In addition, she has been featured in the Cashiers, North Carolina Designer Showhouse and the Atlanta Symphony Associates’ Decorators’ Show House for many years. In 2013, The University of Georgia honored Patricia McLean Interiors with the Bulldog 100 Award for business, ranking 21st. She studied abroad and travels for inspiration but considers herself a true American designer. She takes an organic approach to the design process bringing her refined taste, fresh approach, vast resources and joie de vivre to each project.
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic? Elevated, Enchanting, Enduring
2009 Atlanta Symphony Show House Master Bedroom at The St. Regis Atlanta. Photo by Lauren Rubinstein 2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date? One of my favorite projects to date is the Spring 2009 Atlanta Symphony Show House Master Bedroom at The St. Regis Atlanta. I rarely enter design contests. This one did receive an ASID Design Excellence Award. The palette was a pale green. I mixed the paint color myself and called it Tricia’s Show House green. I had to keep trying it in the high rise because things change when you decorate in the sky light. The cream silk window treatments and gold wooden pelmets were my custom design. I added moldings to the walls and a marble fireplace to the space. The room was large so I was able to designate a bed room, breakfast and living room area. Some visitors said they could live in that one room! The nice thing about that Show House is it lead to a very happy collaboration later with St. Regis Residences on two model home projects for them in 2011 and 2013. I have been designing Show House spaces since 1995. I can honestly say that no two are alike. I love doing them.. 3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration? Inspiration is all around us. I believe God designed the world with designers in mind. Nature holds the key to pattern, color, texture, composition. Whether you can travel to far exotic lands or only around your own zip code, there are keys to good design in every part of our surroundings. I am often quoted as saying there are no bad colors, just bad combinations. Working through the palette is the job of the designer. My way of bringing the pieces together for a harmonious whole is enhanced by travel and experiencing new and historic settings. 4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party… Thomas Jefferson – I think we would all enjoy discussing architecture, furniture, houses and History with him! And then I’d invite Steve and Jill McKenzie – I know they are very fun at dinner!
Bleu Azur Grange Napoleon chairs featured in Patricia’s ASO Showhouse guest suite. Photo by Erica George Dines 5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without? I love chairs. I think of them as the holder of the people and their placement can often determine how the conversation flows. It is also the occasional chair that can add the most spice to the room because it gets used when the conversation really gets going and you need more seats! But standing alone it can be a show stopper with stand out fabric, color or both as was the case with the pair of bleu azur Napoleon chairs by Grange Furniture I borrowed from steve mckenzie’s for the 2015 Atlanta Decorator Show House. 6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you? My rule is to stay true to my eye. Over the years I have realized that not everyone sees things the way I do. I remember telling a group in a talk that I could see the colors in my head and remember them forever once I saw them. I had one friend that never forgot that and would quote me on it. People would offer me fabric samples or paint chips to take with me and I would just say I didn’t need them. I thought that was how everyone saw color. I always do paint samples on boards with clients. Fabrics are my favorite and getting the mix right requires use of various textures and pattern. It’s all experimentation with each job. I guess my one rule would be don’t force anything.
St. Regis Atlanta Private Residence 7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?” I love antique tortoise boxes (not trendy, just a favorite of mine) and de Gournay hand painted wall panels. I am over bad furniture compositions. Everything does not work. It is sad what passes for good design these days. Patricia’s ASO Showhouse Guest Bath. Photo by Erica George Dines 8. How does artwork fit into your designs? It is often the starting point. It helps establish the mood and/or color palette. It can also be the finishing touches that bring the room to life. I actually have the artwork commissioned for some of my projects. I work with artists that understand what I need and are able to paint, draw or watercolor render what I want in certain spaces. The 2015 Decorators Show House had a collection of paintings and water colors on one wall. I commissioned the art and the hand finished custom frames for that room. The effect was charming. It seemed as if the owners had collected the art over time. And the frames complimented the fabric palette beautifully. 9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island? No brainer- iphone. I could call for help, be tracked by GPS and keep myself entertained and stay in touch with family/friends while waiting! 2013 ASO Show House Living Room featured in “Scalamandre’ Haute Decor.” Photo by Emily Followill 10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry. What my father taught me in business – which is just good manners. Treat everyone with respect no matter their station. Many days I interact with a myiad of people in the trade. I have been dealing with some them for over 30 years. Every job is a collaboration and I so appreciate those that help me get there. Also, encourage new business but always appreciate your existing clients.
If that interview and those images aren’t enough to inspire you, we don’t know what will! Patricia’s spaces are all so graceful, but offer unexpected touches that truly make a statement. Each time we’re in one of her rooms, we see something we haven’t seen the time before. Magic. Thanks so much to Patricia for agreeing to let us feature her as a Tastemaker, here on the blog for steve mckenzie’s! To learn more about her, and her interior designs, visit Patricia McLean Interiors here.
She’s an interior designer with an impeccable sense of style. But, she’s also an unbelievable artist, working with natural mediums in ways we’d never imagine. Tish Mills seems to be able to do it all, and we’re thrilled to have gotten the opportunity to get to know her better over the last year!
Some of Tish’s creations grace our shelves here in the steve mckenzie’s showroom, although they never last long, catching people’s attention as soon as they’re near. Her agate accessories have been fast movers here, and some of our own, personal favorite items carried in-store.
Tish Mills’ custom creations on display at steve mckenzie’s
But, first and foremost, Tish Mills is an unbelievable designer in her own right and creates some stunning, and totally awe-inspiring spaces. We’re absolutely honored Tish agreed to let us feature her as a Tastemaker, here on the blog for steve mckenzie’s, and we’re excited to share a bit more about Tish with you today:
Tish Mills
Since forming Harmonious Living in 1999, Tish Mills has become known for creating highly peaceful spaces that are a true reflection of the homeowner’s personality and the way that they live. Tish uses a mix of color and materials from the surroundings to create balanced spaces that are seamless from interior to exterior. Project results have been recognized numerous times within the design industry. Tish Mills has received 13 design excellence awards from the Georgia Chapter of the ASID; one project winning three national ASID awards. Her work has been featured in magazines such as Elle Décor, Traditional Homes, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles and Atlanta Magazine as well as several books on interior design. Tish Mills is a graduate of the University of Georgia and studied Feng Shui at the American Feng Shui Institute. She is an active member of the American Society of Interior Designers.
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
No Boundaries, Thoughtful, Organic
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
It is hard for me to have one favorite project since they are all very different and a reflection of each homeowner, rather than me. Having said that, I’m very proud of the house that was featured in the May issue of Traditional Home Magazine. This was an especially challenging and rewarding project for me because the client pushed me more than a client ever has. She only wanted to see the very newest and most trend-setting design in a very bold color palette. That is very different for an Atlanta project, which tends to be much more neutral. Coupled with this directive, the client also wanted the spaces to feel calm and soothing. It was quite a tall order. The outcome, speaks for itself. It was beyond anything she had hoped for. And, we are now working on a new ground up project for the same family.
I am also just finishing a project for a long time client that is very neutral, yet not safe at all, that I am so incredibly excited to photograph and share. We’ve worked on this project for about four years, including a full year before we brought in an architect or builder. By the time the team was assembled, we had an incredibly clear vision for the project. The client and I recently pulled out the concept sketches we did at the first meeting on this project and were both amazed at how true the end product has stayed to our initial conversation.
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
Like almost every Designer would say, inspiration comes from everywhere. It is almost a creative person’s curse as we look at the world differently. Travel is always a key source. I was in Marrakech a few years ago and that really shifted my design approach. The level of detail, patterning, and imagination in every corner of that country is breathtaking. The flip side of that is as simple as a weekend at the beach. I could sit every day and watch the colors shift during sunset or the tide wash over the sand. My children tease me that I only like colors associated with an oyster shell or a sunset. Needless to say, they were surprised by the project I mentioned above. Cooking is another source of inspiration as I approach it from a very free space not limited by any recipe. For me, cooking engages all of the senses to a higher level. As I said, inspiration comes from everywhere…
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
My Grandmother (Gran Gran), as I miss her every day. She was a cowgirl who lived way before her time. If she were my age right now, watch out world; Oprah because she is a trailblazer and shows no fear; Axel Vervoordt because studying his design approach taught me to never over think, but rather design from the deepest place in my soul.
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
I have several pieces I’ve collected over the years that mean a great deal to me, such as a pair of antique doors from Portugal. Until recently, I would have said something like these. But, for Christmas this past year, my now fiancé, painted a piece for me of two horses. The emotion of the painting, the body language between them and the look in both of their eyes, spoke volumes. I’ll love that piece of art, and the love behind it, for the rest of my life.
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
I don’t really believe in rules for the most part. I’m a firm believer in following my intuition. If you love it and have an emotional response, buy it. We will find a place in the home for that special item. However, having said that, I do also believe there are some things in a room have to be quiet and set the stage for the more special pieces in the space. Not everything can be the star fighting for attention, or the result will be anything but peaceful. Actually that can be quite frenetic.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
I’m really enjoying working with the influx of concrete tiles. The patterning and color combinations are very inspiring and have been a great launching place for design. In color, I’m really loving strong blues such as navy which can be very crisp.
I’m over safe design. Seeing the spring collections from the manufacturers have been the best in years. The industry, as a whole, is again pushing the boundaries and much stronger and creative products are hitting the market. I’ve been adding resources and new patters/textures like crazy as a result.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
Artwork is often the star or jumping off point for spaces for me. It is typically the item in the room that really pushing the color and emotion. I rarely shop for art without the client because they have to have an connection to the artwork in any space since it really helps push the soul of the room.
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
Ok, I admit it… my iPhone. I couldn’t survive without talking to my children. And, on the practical side, I do tend to take pictures of anything I see out in the world that I want to remember. The creative inspiration on an deserted Island could keep me going for a long time.
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
Get to work. Get out and see and do everything you can. I am immediately turned off by people who are not self-starters and are not hungry to learn. If you are breaking into the industry, it is important to understand that design is very hard work with lots of hours.
Hard work and lots of hours indeed, Tish is spot-on with that piece of advice for up and coming designers!
And a BIG thank you to this maven of interior design for allowing us to feature her as a Tastemaker. We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know Tish Mills better!
This month, we’ve selected friend, and fellow Atlanta-based designer, Margaret Kirkland as our March Tastemaker – and we’re so pleased she agreed to participate with us in this fun blog post series! Margaret has an impeccable southern style, and people are drawn to her warm personality. We’re thrilled to have this wonderful opportunity to introduce our readers to Margaret and share what makes her tick as a designer! Enjoy learning all about her on this Tastemaker Tuesday:
Margaret Kirkland
Prior to founding her namesake firm, Margaret Kirkland worked in New York and later in her native Atlanta with Dan Carithers Design Consultants. Over the course of fifteen years in the design industry, Margaret has completed projects including residences, high rises, showrooms, a yacht, a spa, a country club, and even an interior design pop-up shop in Northeast Harbor, Maine. She has worked for clients throughout the United States—including New York, Chicago, the low country of South Carolina and Atlanta—and also on several international projects. Margaret Kirkland Interiors has had projects published in multiple shelter magazines including Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles, Southern Living and House Beautiful magazines. Margaret Kirkland Interiors has been named top design firm to watch by several publications & blogs and most recently, Kirkland was named “15 under 40” by Atlanta Home’s and Lifestyles Magazine.
1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?
Timeless, Southern, Elegant
2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to have some really special jobs here in Atlanta, in New York, in the low country of South Carolina, even a few houses in France. Any project where the clients are enthusiastic and happy about their homes are my favorite projects to work on!
3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?
I feel like I get design inspiration from everything I am exposed to on a daily basis. Travel and exposing yourself to classic design and architecture of the past is great inspiration, but so is taking a walk outside, and get inspired by the palettes and combinations you see in the natural world. I also love staying current with all the best shelter magazines.
4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…
Bunny Williams, Diana Vreeland, Albert Hadley for their wit, humor, and their style. Plus they all seem (ed) to know how to have a good time!
Photo Credit – Mali Azima
5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?
There is nothing more inviting than a beautiful and comfortable bed to start and end your days in.
Photo Credit – Mali Azima
6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?
I don’t follow any strict rules in decorating, but I think it is all about a great mix of cotton and linen print and solid fabrics, good lighting, lovely accessories and art working together to make a statement.
7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”
I have always been into chintzy prints, and I am glad they are in vogue again. I am over gloomy gray and beige that does not say anything.
8. How does artwork fit into your designs?
Art plays a huge a part of our inspiration for a room scheme, and can really set the entire mood of a room. I love both traditional and modern art, and I love to involve clients in art purchases so their personalities shine in the spaces in which they live.
Photo Credit – Mali Azima
9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?
I would want a notebook to write down my thoughts and all the projects I want to work on!
10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.
Go work for the designer you are most admire. No amount of reading and school projects can prepare you quite the way on the job training can!
On the job training – right on! We agree with Margaret, experience is everything! What a fantastic set of responses. Thank you again to Margaret Kirkland for letting us feature her as a Tastemaker here on the blog for steve mckenzie’s – we look forward to seeing more of your work!
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