How to Get a Classic Christmas Tree This Year

Green, red and unexpected royal blue Christmas ribbon gives this southern home an all-American classic Christmas feeling. Design by Monica Lavin.

Atlanta-based designer Clary Bosbyshell ordained the Schumacher wall covered entryway with a dramatic Christmas tree centered around herringbone pattern hardwood floors. Classic gold and red decor are balanced with Tiffany blues that play off of the mural wall covering. 

Cheery and bright! And truly southern with magnolia stems and bows that compliment the window drapes and rich, velvet tree skirt. Design by Amy Student Baker Design. 

Image 1: You can never have too many ornaments! This tree designed by Ashley Gilbreth and captured by Laurey Glenn is whimsical yet traditional and sets the stage for the turquoise wrapped presents cuddled up under the tree. | Image 2: The Colony Hotel displays Christmas decor with a Palm Beach twist and it's nothing short of what you'd expect from this luxury Palm Beach resort. | Image 3: Playful Christmas tree with large colorful ornaments topped with an untraditional gold star figure. Design by Khaki Christopher Interiors.

It's all about blue and white in this southern living room. The limestone fireplace is draped with Fraser fir and magnolia leaves that play off of the luscious, large Christmas tree with a variety of ornaments, lights and ribbon. Design by Kevin Bearhill and image by Rett Peek.

Make it fun! Yellow is the name of the game with untraditionally yellow lemons serving as the color inspiration for this colorful, happy Christmas tree. The tree embraces many colors but is completed with a large yellow bow topper and surrounded by Christmas wreaths lined with, you guest it, lemons. It's a cheerful and truly Southern approach to Christmas decor. Images by Hector Sanchez.

Another example of adding whimsical fun to a traditional room. The tinsels and bright pops of color give this Charleston, SC living room personality and spunk while still staying grounded in antiques pieces and traditional decor. Notice this tree doesn't have a topper yet still shines! Design by Grace Frederick Design and captured by Sarah Alsati.

And don't forget to add small 2 - 3 foot trees throughout the home - in a nursery, kid's bedroom, playroom and anywhere you'll enjoy it! Make the ornaments soft and non-fragile for a worry-free way to engage your kids or grandkids in the holiday fun. Image from Mintwood Home.

For more Christmas decor inspiration, check out this one on front doors and this one on entryways all decked out in swoon-worthy timeless, Christmas decor. 

RECENT FINDS

Timeless Bathroom Designs Inspiring My Remodel

When my husband and I bought our 1965 home, we knew the bathrooms would need to be updated. The kid's bathrooms are original to the home! The sink height was much lower at that time so the sinks have been a great height for the kids but are way overdue for an update. See images below of the original red sinks. 

It's time to give the bathrooms an update but I want to keep the style timeless and elegant. The primary bathroom will be more sophisticated but I would still like the kid's bathrooms to be timeless and something they can grow into. I've been studying bathroom tile, cabinets, layout and plumbing fixtures for a few weeks now and want to share what I've found.

Once the renovations are complete, I'll share the entire before and after process - the good, the bad and the ugly. For now, here are some bathrooms that are giving me ideas and inspiration for a fresh, yet traditional look. 

Admittedly, these images are from Pinterest which can make it challenging to track down the original source. But I'm linking each image back to the Pinterest image to give the "Pinner" credit. If you want to see more bathroom inspiration, click on over to my Pinterest page and tap "Follow" so you'll never miss a pin. 

Before I jump into the kid's bathrooms, I want to share my vision and inspiration for the primary bathroom. Renovations will start after the kid's bathrooms are complete, but I've already started pulling together a plan and to say I'm excited is an understatement. 

The above image caught my eye for a few reasons:

• The basketweave flooring with marble edging
• The thick crown molding ceiling trim 
• The standalone tub with a traditional silhouette
• The beveled edge marble countertop (it's hard to see in this image but I've included others below)

The basketweave marble floor is seen here again in the shower floor. I will likely carry the floor tile into the shower floor so this is inspiration for all flooring in the primary bathroom. And these shower walls! I've found that one way to elevate and create a more traditional look in a shower is by adding a thin pencil liner trim in a shape that mirrors the shower wall. I love the way this one turned out.

And below are lots of little details that shouldn't be missed! The recessed shower niche is so important. We're considering adding a few to provide ample storage. The last image shows a closeup of the beveled edge marble, and I love the elongated faucet in the image too. We are going to use cross handle faucets but most faucets come with an option to do cross handle or lever handle style.

I saved this picture above because of the lighting and ceiling. Have you ever thought about whether there's a recess light in your shower? I hadn't! But now that I'm remodeling, it's something I'm thinking about for our shower and the kids bathrooms. If you pay attention at luxury hotels or resorts, you'll notice a recess light inside the standup shower and above the tub area. Depending on your space, you may only need a 4 inch recess light. Standard is 6 inches.

Notice how the ceiling is tiled? After talking with our contractor, I'm opting not to add tile to the ceiling but will be taking the tile all the way up to the ceiling. We'll be doing a shower head from the ceiling and a handheld shower system.

One of our big wishlist items for the primary bathroom is an enclosed toilet area or water closet. I love the trim work in this one and the toilet itself. I never thought I would care so much about a toilet until having to choose one for our own house. 

I saved this image for a few reasons too!

• The basketweave floor - again! I like seeing it in different spaces. This image helped confirm why I love it so much.
• The built in shelving with trim work - it adds so much charm to the room.
• The floor mounted tub filler with a handheld spray and cross knobs.
• The overall look and feel is high-end, charming and elegant!

We're not planning on doing wallpaper in our primary bathroom, but I just loved this green, gold and white palette here.

Again, not planning on wallpaper but how pretty is this blue and white wallpaper by Liz Williams Interiors!

Let's talk about the kids bathrooms now! To be honest, there are some similarities in the primary bathroom and the kids bathrooms - I want a classic look in all of the bathrooms. The image above has been my guiding inspiration for 4 reasons: 

• The inset cabinets with nickel knobs.
• The basketweave floor with a blue/grey background.
• The subway tile shower wall which we will use in the shower wall and bathroom wall.
• The framed mirror that elongates the space.

I love the simplicity and timelessness of this bathroom faucet. Notice the cross handles again.

I saved the above image and the two below for the vanity style. We had the cabinets custom made since both bathrooms required unique measurements to fit the space. I also had some specific requests to make the bathrooms functional. In the boys bathroom the space was tight but I still wanted drawers.

The above image was what I used to show our cabinet maker to give him an example of very small width drawers flanking under sink cabinets. I used the bottom two images to think through options for ways to build out the middle cabinets under the sink.

This is what we ended up with, and I couldn't be happier! 

The first one is the double sink bathroom that my daughter will use and the second is the boy's bathroom. Notice on the small vanity how a pullout trashcan was incorporated on the right pull out cabinet. Since the floor space is limited, I had that added so the room didn't feel crowded. Both vanities will be painted Benjamin Moore White Dove.

Check back for more updates! In the meantime check out more photos and videos of our 1965 family home in the "My Home" highlight on Instagram.

Designer Source: Custom Cabinetry & Millwork

This is a sponsored post by Kingdom Woodworks. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

Kingdom Woodworks

Trusted by some of the South's most well-known and respected trades, Kingdom Woodworks has been building custom cabinetry and millwork since 1999.

In 1999, Marcel N. Olariu founded Kingdom Woodworks as a small garage cabinet shop. As a third generation European craftsman with a formal education in architecture, Marcel desired to make high-quality, furniture-grade custom cabinetry for residential customers.

Kingdom Woodworks quickly became known in the booming Atlanta construction market as a company focused on integrity, promptness, quality and overall great service. As a result of the great reputation, Kingdom Woodworks clientele expanded rapidly with architects, builders, contractors, interior designers and homeowners.

The growth of the company has brought Kingdom Woodworks to its current facility in Lawrenceville, GA which is now home to their offices, showroom, and manufacturing facility. They combine old-school handcrafted skill with the latest technology in all aspects of manufacturing and finishing.

Kingdom Woodworks is one of the leading national manufacturers of custom cabinetry and architectural millwork. Their tailored cabinetry is custom from start-to-finish, designed to accommodate the homeowners individual taste and personality.

Above Image Interior Design: Ashley Gilbreath | Photo: Jeff Herr | Cabinetry: Kingdom Woodworks

Interior Design: Ashley Gilbreath | Photo: Jeff Herr | Cabinetry: Kingdom Woodworks

Each and every detail ordains the cabinets Kingdom Woodworks completes. From the detail on the inset cabinets to the base, the tailored cabinets give this primary suite an elegant, harmonious style. The plumbing fixtures and cabinet hardware are the crown jewel to a luxurious primary bath.

Interior Design: Ashley Gilbreath | Photo: Jeff Herr | Kitchen and Living Cabinetry: Kingdom Woodworks

The benefit of working with a tailored, custom cabinetry company is not only that the design and style is customized but the practical features are elevated and personalized as well. Kingdom Woodworks understands individual client needs and works with the homeowner to layer in features that create a sense of comfort and ease. 

A place for heirloom dining plates and serving wear 

An organized spice drawer, a favorite things drawer and a large island drawer for an entertainers kitchen - all with in-drawer lighting to make things easier to see.

Here is another example of a beautiful, elegant space that functions with ease. A classic cabinet design with a hidden coffee bar and microwave so you don't have to go far for the everyday items but you can live with a sense of peace and cleanliness.  

Interior Design: Ashley Gilbreath | Photo: Jeff Herr | Cabinetry: Kingdom Woodworks

Washing dishes never looked so effortless 

Interior Design: Ashley Gilbreath | Photo: Jeff Herr | Cabinetry: Kingdom Woodworks

The details really do matter

Delicate details etched in the cabinet door and built in storage at the base to maximize the family's needs for a place to keep belongings. The built-in seat provides a place to tie shoes and zip coats before heading out the door.

"Creativity is a gift that God breathed upon mankind as a reminder that we were created in His image." - Marcel Olariu, Founder of Kingdom Woodworks

To read more of Marcel's story and explore Kingdom Woodworks further, visit their website or follow along on Instagram. 

Images not sourced were provided by Kingdom Woodworks. 

RECENT FINDS

Bespoke Collection of Designer Wallpaper

This is a sponsored post by Celedore Wallpaper.  All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

Interior Design: James Farmer | Photo: Jeff Herr | Wallpaper: Stroheim Fabrics, Palm Garden Sisal Charcoal on Dove

I've combed through dozens of wallpaper books, searched the internet and ordered samples. Now, I'm sharing my favorite wallpaper for small spaces like a powder room, butler's pantry or entry way. 

Interior Design: Heather Dewberry and Will Huff | Photo: Emily Followill | Wallpaper: Sanderson Design Group

Interior Design: Mallory Mathison | Photo: Jeff Herr | Wallpaper: Brunschwig & Fils Bird And Thistle Green 

Wallpaper: Brunschwig & Fils Bird And Thistle Beige

Interior Design: Mark Sikes | Photo: Pascal Chevallier | Wallpaper 1: Quadrille Bali Hai, Greens on Off White | Wallpaper 2: Soane Scrolling Fern Silhouette, Emerald

Wallpaper: NEW Zoffany grasscloth wallpaper, Emperor's Musician in Charcoal and La Seine

Wallpaper: Lee Jofa grasscloth wallpaper, Avondale Paper, Slate/Aqua

Wallpaper: Thomas Strahan Peonies, Pink

Wallpaper: Cole & Son Bourlie, Duck Egg

Wallpaper: Colefax and Fowler Chantilly, Silver Forest

Wallpaper: Brunschwig & Fils Bengali, Natural and Periwinkle 

Wallpaper: Schumacher X Celerie Kemble Acanthus Stripe Vinyl, Limestone

Wallpaper: York Wallcoverings Bird & Blossom Chinoserie, White and Gold

Wallpaper: Cole and Son Angel's Trumpet, Chalk and Sage on Stone

I've partnered with Celedore Wallpaper to give you an exclusive 15% off your entire order. That can be substantial when ordering designer wallpaper so be sure to tell them I sent you! 

Celedore Wallpaper is located at 5010 Park Road in Charlotte, NC but they work with homeowners and interior designers nationwide. Email them at info@celedorewallpaper.com or call them at 704-817-8679 for expert advice and to place an order.

RECENT FINDS

There's No Place Like the Lowcountry

I'm so excited to have partnered with South Carolina-based artist, Emily Ward, to create a piece of art that "Feels like Home." 

My family and I spend a lot of time in the lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia. It's always been a place that "feels like home" and instantly puts my mind at ease. Emily Ward captured my vision so well, and now I'm excited to be able to offer it to you in high-resolution prints, framed prints and as a Frame TV download. 

Use code GG10 for 10% OFF all "Feels like Home" pieces. 

Limited edition of high-quality prints, framed prints and Frame TV downloads will be available on www.ewardoriginals.com. Release opens at 8AM on October 8th. 

Use code GG10 for 10% OFF

Classic Antiques Used by Interior Designers

Antiques have always been part of timeless, luxury design but recently, thanks to imagery engines like Instagram and Pinterest, they have become even more desired as homeowners can see how mixing the old with the new provides a fresh, grounded look.

See how Nashville-based Debbie Mathews incorporates antiques for a timeless, classic look. All images provided by Debbie Matthews and taken by Leslee Mitchell, Allison Elefante and Nick Mcginn. 

Debbie Mathews Home shop is located at 5121 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205.

Thanks for stopping by, it's always great to have you! 

5 Steps to a Classic Kids' Bedroom

When it comes to designing a kids' bedroom, there’s a lot to consider. I wanted a room that was comfortable, age-appropriate and classic for my 3-year-old daughter to grow into. 

In this blog post, I’ll share 5 steps for creating a classic kids' bedroom as well as a few sources and cost-saving tips I learned along the way.

#1: Find Your Inspiration

I knew I wanted a classic, traditional look that could grow with my daughter. She has a beautiful four poster Charleston bed passed down from my husband's family so that was my starting point. I really didn't have anything else since she was in a nursery at our old house and moved into a big girl bed when we moved into our current house almost a year ago. 

There's always been something about a soft pink and green that I've loved for a little girl, so I started searching for inspiration on Instagram and Pinterest. I narrowed it down to these six images that each have something I pulled from when decorating my daughter's room.  

Design By: Clary Bosbyshell

Design By: Julie Neill Designs

Design By Clary Bosbyshell | Photo By: Heidi Face

Design By: Julie Neill Designs

Design By: Betsey Mosby Interiors

Photo By: Lauren Daue via The Traditionalist

#2: Choosing the Right Color Palette

Choosing the right color palette for your child's bedroom is an essential step in creating a classic and elegant design. When it comes to timeless decor, the colors you choose play a significant role. For a classic and elegant look, consider incorporating precious pink and white tones for a little girl and light blue and white for a little boy. These soft hues create a sense of tranquility and innocence that is perfect for a child's space. Since I'll be sharing my daughter's room, I'm going to focus on pinks but any of this could be tweaked for a little boy by using blues and whites.

When selecting the perfect shades of pink and white, consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. A light blush pink or a delicate cream shade for the walls is an easy way to create a soothing and sophisticated backdrop. I also love the idea of wallpaper but it wasn't in the budget so I opted for a soft pink paint color. I ended up going with Gentle Butterfly by Benjamin Moore and am really happy with it. It's a very pale pink. 

I came across this rug from Loom & Co. right after we purchased our home and instantly fell in love with it. Loom & Co. was kind enough to provide it at a discount for our family. I've been so happy with the quality, ability to clean it (milk spills, crumbs and pen marks have all been cleaned from it!) The color palette is soft yet full of life and color. I love the way it brightens the room

#3: Layer the Bedding

Layers, layers, layers. Have you wondered how beds look so full and tailored? I sure did! I began researching bedding and am excited to share what I learned. 

Follow along as I share the 6 layers that will give a designer look. While some pieces are custom, I'll share where I found everything and how easy it was to pull it all together. 

There are so many different ways to make up a bed, but I love the way this turned out. It's traditional and sweet. 

Layer 1: Fitted and top sheet. This is where I decided to save. Since my daughter is 3, there's no guarantee the sheets will stay clean so I bought some knowing I would need to replace them every so often. I opted for crisp white sheets from Amazon. They were on sale for $16 earlier this month.  

Layer 2: I added a tailored linen blush bed skirt that gives the room a more traditional look. This one comes in pieces so you buy the sides you need and pin them into the box spring. Mine is from Classic Bedroom Design.

Layer 3: A beautiful diamond quilt added texture and covered the areas that I didn't want visible like where the bed skirt is attached to the box spring. I love the texture and traditional look it provides. This is also from Classic Bedroom Design. They have a storefront at Cotswold Marketplace in Charlotte but they'll also ship! You can email Karen at classicbedroomdesign@gmail.com. Tell them I sent you!

Layer 4: I've been following Wheaton Whaley for years and when they released their new scalloped bedding, I immediately reached out! They were kind enough to gift the duvet and pillow shams and provided so much helpful advice about bedding, pillow sizes and fabric options. The duvet has a zipper and ties inside which make it easy to add the insert and wash it. I have this insert. 

Layer 5: My daughter's euro shams are the same fabric as the bed skirt and also from Classic Bedroom Design. I like the consistency in the use of fabric and the soft pink hue. For a queen, two euro shams are perfect. You could do three, but they will hang off the sides. I like how these two euros still allow the Wheaton Whaley standard shams to peak through. 

Layer 6: Lastly, I worked with Wheaton Whaley to design a bolster pillow that would work well with my existing Loom & Co rug and add some additional color into the bedding. They had SO many options. It was a little overwhelming, but they provide design services which made it fun! They also have bedding sets that they've curated and make it very easy to get a designer look without having to order fabric samples and finding someone to make the pieces. They'll take care of everything, and you can order it on their website here. Use code "GARDENANDGRACE" for 10% off entire order.

#4: Don't Shy Away from Used or Antique Pieces

When it comes to finding the unique pieces, I like to look at antique shops, Facebook marketplace and small children's boutiques. If you're in Charlotte, places like Sleepy Poet, Hamilton-Stuart and Classic Attic are good places to start if you're looking for antique furniture or unique decor. 

My daughter's bed was passed down from my husband's family, but I've seen similar ones at Classic Attic. Her dresser is Pottery Barn Kids, but I found it on Facebook marketplace and added these baskets to give her additional storage space. Oh, and this bamboo table! It was a Facebook marketplace find as well. I was searching for bamboo folding chairs for a party we were hosting, and someone nearby was selling two bamboo folding chairs with this table. I couldn't resist!

#5: Incorporate Personalized Pieces

I love adding personal touches to any room but especially a child's bedroom. It gives them a sense of belonging and comfort. This sweet, stitched keepsake is from Brittingham Stitching Co. and includes the Bible verse we chose for my daughter. 

When I was in Cotswold Marketplace the other day, I found this adorable green check pillow and knew I had the perfect spot for it. WHL Design added a precious applique monogram that matches this throw blanket from C&C Interiors. The cane back chair is also a second-hand find from Charleston, SC years ago. 

I still need to add window treatments and some small decor items but I'm so happy with the way my daughter's room is coming together and can't wait to see her grow and enjoy it over the years. 

SHOP THE ROOM

Commissioned Portrait: Where to Begin

Over the last few years, I’ve been asked about children’s portraits and if I had a source for them.

Truthfully, I didn’t -- until I met the ladies behind Portrait Associates. These kind-hearted moms have built a network of artists with varying styles, mediums and price points so that families can select an option that works best for them.

I sat down with them this summer to learn more about the process and see some of their portraits in-person. My husband and I would like to have portraits done of our three kids so I was partially asking questions to share helpful information with you all and partially asking for personal reasons!

I hope this blog leaves you feeling more educated and inspired to take the next step in capturing your loved ones in whatever season they are in. It will be a piece treasured and passed down for generations.

Okay, so now for some questions!

How do I commission a portrait?

To get started, reach out to a Portrait Associates representative (see the end for details), and they will guide you through the process, answer your questions and help you select the portrait artist that will work best for you. They will help you decide based on personal taste and style, budget and timing. 

After I select an artist, what should I expect next?

The Portrait Associate representative (i.e., another mom who understands how big of a decision this is) will be in close contact with you as she makes the necessary arrangements to find a mutually convenient sitting date. The representative will then coordinate the travel arrangements for the artist and will serve as a mediator between you and the artist throughout the process. Prior to and during the sitting, your representative will help with any questions you have related to wardrobe, location, props, etc.

What should I expect at the sitting?

Once the artist arrives, the artist will meet you and your family, discuss any final details then will begin. During the sitting, the artist will take a number of photographs so that after the sitting you and the artist can sit down and review together to select the photos that best capture the look and personality of your child.

How long does a portrait commission take?

Depending on the artist, you can expect the portrait to be delivered within 6 months to 1 year.

These services are so helpful, but will it cost me more to go through Portrait Associates?

Actually, no! There is no additional cost to you and the price is the same as that offered by the artist if you were to contact the artist directly. It’s a service the artists pay for because it helps take out the coordinating and sales aspect of their job so they can do what they love best, paint!

How much does it cost to commission a portrait?

Something I (Crystal) personally liked about Portrait Associates is that they represent quality artists in a range of price points, and they were really open to working with me to find something that fit my budget. Depending on the size and medium, portraits start around $1,500. 40% is due 60 days prior to the sitting and the remaining balance is due upon delivery of the portrait.

For even more examples of portraits, visit the Portrait Associates website.

Click here for an exclusive home tour I did this summer with Portrait Associates featuring several beautiful portraits.

For specific questions and to get started on your own portrait, you can reach out to one of the following representatives listed below:

Charlotte, NC | Quinerly Cowden (qcowden@portraitassociates.com) and Elizabeth Pitts (epitts@portraitassociates.com)

Atlanta, GA | Bonnie Sugrue (bsugrue@portraitassociates.com)

Raleigh, NC | Sarah Wood (swood@portraitassociates.com) and Elizabeth Dixon (edixon@portraitassociates.com)

Greenville, SC | Kate Madden (kmadden@portraitassociates.com)

Greensboro, NC and Nashville, TN | Rebecca Sheaff (rsheaff@portraitassociates.com) 

Charleston, SC | Mary McClean Vincent (mmvincent@portraitassociates.com)

Morehead City, NC | Katie McClintic (kmcclintic@portraitassociates.com)

Wilson, NC | Mary Clayton McGee (mcemcgee@portraitassociates.com)

For all other cities, please reach out to Elizabeth Pitts (epitts@portraitassociates.com) or Elizabeth Dixon (edixon@portraitassociates.com).

Nursery Inspiration

Design by: Lauren E. Lowe | Photo By: Emily Followill PhotographerYou asked for it, you got it! This is as easy as A-B-C for me with baby #3 on the way and my mind constantly thinking about nursery décor. There are some nurseries from designers I admire that I've had saved in my phone from before I was even pregnant with my first, and I'm excited to share all my favorites with you. Whenever possible, I'll also link products that are similar so you can recreate the room and get a designer-look at a fraction of the cost. Before we jump in, here are my 3 tips:

1. Keep the furniture neutral so it's easy to transition between boy and girl. Unless you only plan on having one or this is your last then go for it!
2. Spurge wisely. Look for alternative options or dupes and remember they only stay in the room for 2-3 years usually.
3. Make it personal. Add personal heirloom pieces, monogrammed items and decor that warms your heart since you'll likely be spending a lot of time in this room the first year.

Design by: Jennifer Barron Interiors | Photo by: Kit Peltier PhotographyDesign by: Jennifer Barron Interiors | Photo by: Molly Culver PhotographyDesign by: Paperwhites Interiors | Photo by: Suzy Thompson PhotographyDesign by: Lauren E Laine Interiors | Photo by: Emily Followill PhotographerDesign by: Clary Bosbyshell | Photo by: Vicki Bartel PhotographerDesign by: Stuffy Muffy | Photo by: Mary Catherine BrownfieldDesign by: Ashley B Hanley | Photo by: Kip Dawkins PhotoDesign & Photo by: Clary Bosbyshell  Design by: Clary Bosbyshell | Photo by: Heidi FaceShop my favorite nursery decor here. I hope you find these designs as sweet as I do. They're only little once and it goes by so fast.

Designer Spotlight: Caroline Hartwell Design

Photo By: Emily Followill Photographer

Atlanta-based interior designer prides herself on creating elevated, approachable spaces. Follow along as Caroline shares her story of inspiration, pursuing her dream and creating lasting, memorable homes.

About the Designer:

I grew up in Greensboro, North Carolina and currently live in Atlanta with my husband, Hunter, and our black lab puppy, Olive.

In addition to design, I'm also passionate about cooking and travel. My husband and I actually spent three months in London last fall, which was a dream!

Photo By: Emily Followill Photographer 

I decided to take a leap of faith, enrolled in design school, and started working part-time for a designer while I was in school. It was so scary to feel like I was starting over, but I loved it right from the start.

Looking back now, I feel so fortunate that I started my career in consulting because it provided me with skills that have been incredibly beneficial for working with clients and managing the details of a project.

What Inspires You?

So many things! Antiques, artwork, architecture, travel, and other designers to name a few. I love pieces that tell a story and will often use a passed-down family antique or a cherished piece of art as the foundation of a room.

How Would You Describe Your Style?

Refined, comfortable, and collected. I love mixing old with new and adding in unexpected elements to make a space feel personal and approachable.

Give Us A Designer Tip!

I would recommend investing in a good framer.

Even if you don't have the budget to support a diverse art collection, a well-framed piece of art can completely elevate a space. It also allows you to be frugal and creative with the piece of art itself - whether it's a picture cut out of a coffee table book or a coaster from a favorite date spot.

I would also recommend collecting a few antique frames (try Ebay or Etsy!) to add soul.

You're based in Atlanta. Do you also travel?

I work with clients all over! In addition to Atlanta-based projects, I'm also currently working on projects in Brooklyn, Jackson Hole, and North Carolina.

For more inspiration and information about Caroline Hartwell Design, you can visit her website here and her Instagram page here.

Photo By: Anna Routh BarzinPhoto By: Emily Followill PhotographerPhoto By: Anna Routh BarzinPhoto By: Anna Routh BarzinPhoto By: Emily Followill PhotographerPhoto By: Emily Followill PhotographerPhoto By: Emily Followill PhotographerPhoto By: Emily Followill PhotographerPhoto By: Emily Followill PhotographerPhoto By: Emily Followill Photographer