A touch of black to sharpen the edge, greenery to bring in God’s color and a special piece that means something to you.
Katie Kirby | Katie Kirby Interiors
Something Old
Whether it be a sentimental family piece, a unique find while perusing an antique store, a gift or just old books, something old is essential to make a house feel like home. It adds character and portrays that life has been lived.
Savannah Starring | Vellum & Velvet
Illumination
Soft white bulbs mimic the natural glow of candlelight, which fills the room with a kind of warmth that makes everything more beautiful.
Renee Mashburn | Green Gates Market
The patina of a one of a kind antique piece, whether from a thrift shop or family heirloom, adds distinct personality to a modern or traditional space.
Summer Ennis | Summer Ennis Interiors
Personal Mementos
The best rooms reflect the homeowners’ personal style, such as a family heirloom piece or favorite pictures. I have a bowl filled with stones brought back from a family trip to Normandy. Having little reminders of a special moment adds a beautiful touch.
Michele Strength | Inhabit Interios
A Fabulous Lampshade!
Customize lamps with fun shades … pleats, prints, etc. It really adds a unique touch. While there are brands to splurge with like Fermoie, also look to Etsy, Ballard Designs or other online sources. Yellow House Antiques has a lovely selection of classic shade styles.
Lacy Phillips | Lacy Phillips Designs
A Good Blend
All “old” can be stuffy and all “new” can fall flat. Marry the two — no room is complete without the warmth and character of a good antique, such as a treasure found at Antiques at the Loop, plus eye-catching modern.
Rachel Anderson | March + May
A Hint of Gilt!
A gilt photo frame, art work framed in gold, a gold-gilt drapery rod, lamp or architecture will elevate any room to a new level of sophistication!
Wayne Holder, ASID | Brinson Interiors
Original Art
There are so many wonderful places to shop for art — Lyons Share and Little Art Mart are two of my favorites in Fairhope, as well as Sophiella Gallery in Mobile.
Brooke Chamblee | Brooke Chamblee Interiors
The Homeowner’s Personality
After all the creative work, planning, and execution, with the collaboration of a great designer, the wishes and style of the owners should still shine through. A couple of examples are the authenticity of an antique chest and colors or fabrics that speak the client’s language.
Cindy Meador | Cindy Meador Interiors
Gorgeous Lighting
Investing in great lamps that have properly proportional shades makes the biggest difference in a space. Check out lamps, chandeliers, sconces — and everything — from Circa Lighting!
Caitlyn Waite | Cait Waite Designs
Books
I have books in every room of my home and always incorporate them into the rooms I style for clients. They add color, make great bases for treasured items, and tell your guests a little about your family’s interests and personality. Easy access to a coffee table book full of art or a cookbook in the kitchen can lead to spontaneous inspiration! Locally, I love to shop for books at Living Well, Crown and Colony and Page & Palette.
Katherine Goldman | Katherine Goldman Interiors
