6 Things That Always Make A Room Feel More Southern, According To Designers

This article explores enduring Southern decorating principles that contribute to a home's character and comfort. It emphasizes that a Southern home is more than just aesthetic features like columns or specific ceiling colors; it is a space imbued with history, family narratives, and subtle details, fostering an atmosphere conducive to both entertaining and relaxation. Southern interior designers offer insights into these timeless decorating practices. One fundamental principle is the mixing of old and new elements. This approach involves seamlessly integrating cherished antiques and family heirlooms with contemporary designs and accents. Designers highlight that this curated blend creates a sense of history and personalization, as antiques often carry stories and generational significance. By using antique pieces as anchors and incorporating modern touches through bold fabrics, lighting, and sculptural accessories, a space can achieve a unique balance. Another key aspect is surrounding oneself with meaningful and personal touches. This involves selecting objects that reflect personal values and sentimental collections, such as artworks by close friends or family heirlooms. These items introduce personality into a home and can be displayed decoratively, like an old china collection in a butler's pantry or a grouping of sentimental items on a wall, making them a daily source of enjoyment rather than being stored away. The article also stresses the importance of creating a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Southern homes often prioritize comfortable outdoor living areas, recognizing their significance for both entertaining and relaxation. Designers advocate for extending interior design principles to outdoor settings, incorporating comfortable upholstered furnishings and large tables to facilitate outdoor dining and social gatherings, thereby connecting the home with its natural surroundings and enhancing its sense of place. Embracing color is another significant Southern decorating tip. Color is presented as an effective way to inject personality and warmth into a room. While some may hesitate, designers encourage bolder color choices, asserting that they often have a greater impact and contribute more to long-term satisfaction. The article suggests that a full commitment to color, beyond just a few pillows, is necessary to make a truly bold statement. Repurposing antiques in fresh and innovative ways is also highlighted. This involves giving new life to old pieces, such as transforming an antique dresser into a bathroom vanity by replacing its top with a sink. This practice not only adds uniqueness but also ensures that treasured items are used and appreciated daily. Restoring or repainting old fixtures is another cost-effective method to update a home while retaining its character. Investing in one-of-a-kind focal pieces is advised. The recommendation is to allocate budget towards one significant antique per room, such as a period chest, mirror, or a striking chandelier. These distinctive items serve as anchors and can be easily integrated into various spaces throughout a home, providing character and timeless appeal. Mixing textures, patterns, and design styles is crucial for adding depth and interest. This involves layering different materials like linen, velvet, and mohair across walls, floors, furniture, and accents. Such layering prevents a space from appearing monotonous or overly serious, contributing to a richer, more engaging aesthetic. Finally, the article underscores the importance of attention to detail in Southern home design. This can manifest in subtle elements like detailed trim around doorways, or more elaborate features in less visible areas, such as wallpaper or rich paint colors in pantries. Architectural elements like large moldings, tall ceilings, grand staircases, detailed paneled walls, and wood floors are also recognized as contributing to the beauty and distinctiveness of Southern homes. Knowing when to splurge, for instance on unlacquered brass fixtures or bold wallpapers, and when to save, such as by opting for shiplap over drywall for a cohesive aesthetic, are also considered vital. The article concludes by emphasizing the value of decorating with memories, allowing a home's style to evolve organically over time to reflect comfort and history, and integrating living elements like plants and flowers to inject life and a sense of welcome. #SouthernDecorating #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Antiques #ColorInDecor #OutdoorLiving #PersonalizedHome #HomeDecorTips #TimelessDesign

This article explores the favored shopping destinations of leading Southern interior designers, highlighting unique retailers across 11 cities in the region. These designers share insights into where they find distinctive home decor items, from antique furniture and vintage finds to contemporary art, artisanal pottery, luxury linens, and specialty plants, catering to diverse design needs and client preferences. In Atlanta, Georgia, designers recommend a variety of shops. Leah Alexander of Beauty is Abundant sources accessories from SustainAble Home Goods, emphasizing their ethical commitment to artisan communities. Whitney Durham of Whitney Durham Interiors frequents local antique shops like Antiques & Beyond and Interiors Market for one-of-a-kind vintage pieces. For original art, she suggests Anne Irwin Fine Art and Gregg Irby Gallery, while Stanton Home Furnishings is her choice for quality, reasonably priced substantial furniture. Maggie Griffin of Maggie Griffin Design praises House of Hazen for its curated gifts and home accessories, Gramercy for luxury linens, and Marguerite’s on Dresden for high-quality items suitable for various occasions. Dawn Marie Heuer of Heuer Design Collective considers B.D. Jeffries her top choice for meticulously curated home goods and Westside Market for its eclectic mix of antiques and independent vendor offerings, also recommending JJ’s Flower Shop for floral needs. Moving to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Arianne Bellizaire of Arianne Bellizaire Interiors prefers The Foyer for local artisan art and objects, and Patti Dupree for furniture and accessories. In Charlottesville, Virginia, Victoria Pouncey of Folly Charlottesville suggests Laurie Holladay Interiors for lampshades and Ivy Nursery for orchid centerpieces. Dallas, Texas, offers several notable spots. Michelle Lynne of Michelle Lynne Interiors Group likes Mecox Dallas for a Hampton-inspired aesthetic and Burlington Design Gallery for unique tiles, flooring, and custom pieces. Magic Hour is her go-to for handmade goods, and Urban Spikes for both live and faux greenery. Durham, North Carolina, features Nomadic Trading Co., a favorite of Liz Goldberg of CAROLYNLEONA for vintage furniture and rugs that add character and history to projects. Greensboro, North Carolina, is rich in antique stores; Anne Wagoner of Anne Wagoner Interiors mentions Caroline Faison Antiques for French and Swedish pieces and Acquisitions, Ltd. for English antiques, alongside gift shops like Carolyn Todd’s and Quintessentials. Houston, Texas, provides a wealth of antique shops and consignment stores like Memorial Antiques & Interiors and Heights Antiques on Yale, according to Hallie Henley Sims of Hallie Henley Design. She also highlights FOUND for its blend of new upholstery, fine antiques, and contemporary art, and Paloma & Co for unique art selections. In Jackson, Mississippi, Betsey Mosby of Betsey Mosby Interiors recommends Nancy Price for vintage and antique items, and various galleries such as VIEW GALLERY, Brown’s Fine Art, and Fischer Galleries for art. Lavish Fleur is her choice for flowers, and her own store, The Finery, for high-end gifts and accessories. Jupiter, Florida, features Pineapples, Palms, Etc., a preferred source for McCall Dulkys of Interiors By McCall for a modern coastal aesthetic. Knoxville, Tennessee, offers unique finds at OP Jenkins for lighting and antiques, Bliss Home for accessories, and Bradley’s for finishing touches and treats, as noted by Annie Tipton of Annie B. Designs. Finally, in Richmond, Virginia, Lizzie Cox of Lizzie Cox Interiors suggests Paper Plus for decorative items and Reynolds Gallery and Quirk Gallery for art and unique gifts. Kim Faison Antiques is recommended for rare European antiques. Angela Wilson Lee of Wilson Lee Interiors relies on Flowers Make Scents for floral arrangements and The Great Big Greenhouse for indoor plants, emphasizing their health and happiness benefits. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #SouthernDesign #ShoppingGuide #Antiques #ArtGalleries #LuxuryLinens #ArtisanGoods #VintageFinds #LocalBusinesses #DesignInspiration

Interior designers identify six key elements that contribute to a stylish and well-designed room. These elements go beyond mere aesthetics, focusing on intentionality, personalization, and functionality. The first essential is a statement piece, which Amanda Sinistaj, founder of Ellwood Interiors, describes as something that commands attention without being flashy. This could be an oversized mirror, which also helps to expand a small space by reflecting light, or a unique area rug. A true statement piece, according to Sinistaj, should evoke curiosity and provide insight into the homeowner's personality, making the room memorable. The second crucial component is something personal, as highlighted by Lauren Saab of Saab Studios. While contemporary decor items can introduce color and patterns, they often lack the emotional depth and narrative that personal objects bring. Saab suggests incorporating items with a rich history, such as heirloom pieces passed down through generations, or distinctive art and artifacts collected during travels. These personal touches foster an emotional connection and imbue the space with authenticity and meaning, thereby elevating the overall design. Third, elegant window treatments are vital for a polished look. Monique Holland, principal designer at Holland Custom Designs, likens draperies to "the jewelry of a room," emphasizing their role in adding softness, texture, and a sense of completeness. Floor-to-ceiling curtain panels are particularly effective as they can visually enhance ceiling height and introduce additional color. The choice of window treatment, whether tailored ripple fold sheers or sophisticated motorized fabric shades, should align with the room's overall style and functionality. Fourth, incorporating a variety of textural elements is crucial for creating a room that is both stylish and comfortable. Designers advise layering different textures, such as combining soft area rugs with smooth linen throws, chunky knit blankets, and velvet throw pillows. Balancing natural wood finishes with cooler materials like marble or glass further contributes to a richer, more intentional design, fostering a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Fifth, architectural details significantly influence a room's tone and overall design. Amanda Sinistaj stresses the importance of not overlooking the room's inherent structure. Architectural features, from subtle plaster arches to prominent built-in shelving, provide context for the design and create a compelling contrast with furniture and finishes. These details add charm and functionality, making a space feel intentional, elevated, and complete, even if they are not the primary focus. Finally, the sixth element is the integration of pieces that merge style with functionality. Lauren Saab emphasizes that good design prioritizes how a space is lived in and how it supports daily activities. True style, she asserts, emerges when beauty and utility are in harmony. An example provided is a custom bench that serves both as a visual anchor and offers concealed storage, demonstrating how effective design enhances usability and contributes to the overall aesthetic. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTips #RoomStyling #HomeImprovement #ArchitecturalDetails #WindowTreatments #TexturalElements #PersonalizedDecor

Designers Evan Krenzien and Pierce Jordan of Shane & Pierce recently renovated a Dallas home, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of Southern living. Their design philosophy blends classic Georgian architectural elements with modern functionality, focusing on warm hospitality rooted in tradition. The renovation showcases seven distinct design ideas that can be adapted to various home styles and sizes. The first idea features a striking black and white marble diamond tile, which is used throughout the entry and hallway. This design choice provides a timeless, Georgian-inspired aesthetic without appearing overly formal. The use of checkered tiles, combined with French doors that allow ample natural light, creates an inviting and dramatic entryway. Evan emphasizes the importance of wide, open hallways and clear sightlines between rooms, even in a more traditional layout, to maintain a sense of flow. Secondly, the design advocates for uniquely defined rooms, moving away from the open-concept trend. Pierce aimed to create spaces with distinct purposes, incorporating traditional elements. The living room, for instance, is anchored by a mix of smaller, sculptural tables rather than a single oversized coffee table, offering flexibility and artistic visual interest. The seamless transition from marble to wood flooring further helps to define individual rooms while maintaining overall cohesion. Evan highlights that despite a move toward dedicated spaces, a modern home still requires easy flow between areas. The third principle is to blend heritage with modern needs. The kitchen exemplifies this with its stunning verde antigua marble, sourced from Verona, Italy, paired with vintage sconces and sage-framed windows. This combination creates a layered, tonal effect that is both classic and fresh. Evan notes that a balance of old and new, incorporating traditional or heirloom pieces into a modern setting, is a enduring aspect of Southern design. The kitchen itself is designed to feel clean, classic, and airy, accommodating both informal gatherings and formal dining occasions. Fourthly, the design prioritizes indoor-outdoor flow. Given Dallas's outdoor-oriented lifestyle, the home's U-shaped footprint wraps around a private pool courtyard, creating natural gathering points for both entertaining and quiet moments. A two-way sofa in the primary bedroom further blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor living, inviting both views and conversation. The fifth idea encourages taking design risks. The designers integrated art deco lighting, British-inspired wallpaper from House of Hackney, and custom marble selections to introduce unexpected flair while preserving a classic foundation. Pierce specifically points to the blend of art deco elements in the primary bathroom with traditional marble as a successful risk. Sixth, the home embraces color, as seen in the office with its deep purple, richly textured wall, signaling a trend for 2026. Finally, maintaining symmetry is a key element. The bathroom tile design echoes the entryway's checkerboard pattern, scaled down to create a cohesive yet charming detail throughout the home. Pierce concludes that timeless Southern living is characterized by understated elegance, rich details, poise, and comfort. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SouthernStyle #DallasHome #GeorgianArchitecture #MarbleTile #DefinedRooms #IndoorOutdoorFlow #DesignRisks