What Do You Do?

And so, what do you do? A casual conversation starter we all receive and we receive it often. How about this weather? Where are you from? Have kids? Married?..... 

What do you do? 

For a long time I tried to separate what I "do" and who I "am". I didn't want my line of work to define me as a person. As many know, I am an attorney-turned-designer. Practicing law, I always felt the work I was doing wasn't inwardly reflective. Maybe it was the practice area, maybe it was the specific jobs, the clients, I really don't know. But what I do know is that in my gut it just wasn't right. Something wasn't clicking. I wasn't gelling, and I certainly didn't want my work to be who I was, specifically a line of work I really didn't enjoy. I always pushed that inner voice way, way down and decided no one likes their job. No one actually enjoys getting up to go to work. Everyone secretly has a dream to do something else. This is totally normal, so suck it up and carry on.

And to some extent, that's true. Adulting isn't always (ever?) fun. It's a rat race and we're all participants. But eventually I had to ask myself, at what point is it costing me more than it's providing for me? For my family? 

After three years of law school, and then three more years in practice, I had my first child. Motherhood changed me in many ways, but one I am forever grateful for is the way it changed my perspective on my career. Being a mom made me realize just how much I wanted a change, and perhaps that voice that kept pestering me wasn't as "normal" as I'd thought and shouldn't be dismissed. 

Years ago, Jeff Henderson ( via Buckhead Church ) gave a sermon on God's thumbprints on your life. What has He so uniquely equipped you with? What gifts has He given you that are clues into what He has planned for your life? (Honestly, even if you aren't a believer, this is worth a listen). 

For a long time, I mostly ignored those thumbprints. I wanted to make money. You can't make any real money in creative work, right? That's what I told myself. I wanted to be a career woman. I wanted to work at a big lofty firm with a big lofty reputation and have a big lofty job title. And those goals are TOTALLY ACCEPTABLE and most commendable. Except that those weren't my personal goals inwardly. Those were goals I had set for myself outwardly. How I wanted others to see me. How I wanted the world to view me. They weren't personal goals I strived for. They just weren't me at all, but I thought somehow if I were impressive to those around me, I'd be filled up on the inside. All the while ignoring the thumbprints God placed on me. Ignoring that voice that kept telling me this was the wrong profession, the wrong path for ME. I know now that voice wasn't just "normal". I truly believe it was God speaking to me. (actually I think He was screaming at me to wake up).

Now, I'd be lying to you to say it wasn't (and sometimes remains) really (extremely) hard to tell my husband, my family, my friends - "oh hey, yeah that degree I worked tirelessly on, this profession that I've basically dedicated the last 6 YEARS of my life to? Yea, I've decided it's not going to work out. "

Ignoring God in the end has made it that much harder for me. If I had followed that voice and what He had in store for me from the beginning, I could have saved myself many difficult conversations, financial obligations, and most importantly, time. That image of myself I was trying to paint for the world to see? Yea, try explaining that you are an attorney-turned-designer without some form of confusion! God did, however, use those years in law to shape me in other ways. I developed friendships I can't ever replace. Obviously I learned things I wouldn't otherwise know. I grew up. A LOT. But mostly, I learned discpline. I got through one of the hardest experiences of my life all for a career I wasn't truly passionate about. 

So, what was the inner voice? For me, it was clear in my free-time. In law school, any "down" time I had, it was spent reading up on interior design. Home decor. Trends. Styles. Watching HGTV. Flipping through magazines. Designing rooms on paper. Drafting fake house plans. Scrolling through Zillow and flipping houses in my mind. You name it, I was doing it. It's funny, looking back now I can remember doing these things from a young age at my dad's drafting table. I can remember building and creating furniture for my Barbies. I can remember changing out my doll's bedding and using building blocks to create new houses. If that isn't thumbprints at an early age, I don't know what is. 

After law school, I started this blog. I started decorating our first house and used all of my spare time pouring my energy into it. That's when friends and family took notice and started asking me for advice on their own homes. I started designing rooms for people I knew just for the fun. The feeling of pulling together a space for someone completely overwhelmed me, in a good way. The satisfaction that came from this filled up my soul. Seriously. It did. It wasn't for three more years, however, that I finally decided it was time to listen. Time to fully embrace that path. 

And it's been difficult, to be honest. Not just financially difficult. Let's face it, I don't make the money that I did. But it's also been difficult to completely trust God. There have been bumps in the road. Some days I think I've done the exact right thing. I've got flexible hours with the kids. It's good. Other days I am wondering where my next job is coming from, and whether I am doing this right. Whether I know what I am doing AT ALL. 

But, here's the thing. In all of this, I think my experience uniquely equips me to understand the clients I'm wanting to serve. The newlyweds wanting to pull together their first home on a budget. The stay at home mom that just needs a point in the right direction. The married-with-kids that don't have a ton of money to spend on design, but know they want a home that's comfortable and beautiful. Believe me, I GET IT. I know what it is to want a "Pinterest" room on a "penny" budget. I get that! I do. I also know that it is very much possible! 

Interiors don't have to be custom, to-the-trade, or designer brand to be stunning. Yes, I said it. They DO NOT. I'm not sure I'd truly understand that had I not done it myself. I can't tell you how many spaces I've created all from HomeGoods, Overstock and Goodwill! I know we all want inspiring homes that make us say "aaaaaaah" as we walk through the doors. Some of my favorite rooms over the years have also been the most affordable. I thank those clients and friends for trusting me to pull it together. Those Penny-Pinterest rooms are some of the best.

I thank my husband who has completely trusted me to switch cities, careers, and incomes. I thank my friends and family who encourage me to continue on a creative path. And I thank God for all but hitting me over the head with truth. Grace.

The Houston House, LLC is still a baby, but I thank all of you who have helped raise her along the way. It certainly does take a village. 

So, what do I do? I help others achieve a home that makes them feel good. I help families organize the chaos. I help friends come home at the end of the day to a space that's inviting and warm. On any budget. On any scale. That's what I do.

Forever thankful,

Ashley  

  

 

Outdoor Living & Dining Room

A couple months ago, my sister in law in Atlanta contacted me about helping her design their new porch. The back deck was initially an uncovered area. Well, it gets HOT in Atlanta, and the house gets a ton of sunlight, so naturally the deck was way too hot and sunny most of the time for their family to fully enjoy the space. They decided to enhance its functionality by having the entire deck covered. I don't think they have regretted a minute of that decision! 

When she asked me to help her out, she was already pretty sure of what style she liked, and also how much money they had designated for the project. It is always nice to work with a client who has a clear, and most importantly realistic, budget in mind, and a client that has good taste already! After a few conversations back and forth, I put together a few ideas for her.  She and my brother like neutrals, soft, airy, comfortable.  Oh, and not to mention, must be kid friendly for my little nieces (and my brother... ha).  

The look we ended up going with was sort of a combination of all of the above. The space is long and narrow. A tip for anyone working with a similar room is this- divide the room and create separate purposes for each spot. For example, for this space we have a dedicated dining room area and a designated living room area. This helps maintain a comfortable and intimate setting, but it also helps you "fill up" the space. By focusing on how you will use certain spaces, you can create a much more custom design for your own family. Think about how you want to use the room, and divide and conquer. 

My sister in law sent these pictures to me and I'm amazed at the transformation! I can't believe it's the same deck. The builder did such a great job. I love how the lighting makes it truly feel like another room of the house. 

The drapes and all upholstery are done in Sunbrella fabric. I cannot stress how wonderful the stuff is! It comes in every color and pattern under the sun, and is PERFECT for families. We use so much of it for clients in Savannah, both indoors and outdoors. 

And a few daylight pictures. As you can see, here's the "dining room" side. 

And the "living room" side.  The fire pit coffee table was an item my sister in law found herself. Versatile furniture like this is a great way to transition a space from day to night. This piece can be used as a coffee table for the kiddos to color, eat, do puzzles, read books, etc. by day, and  it transforms into a cozy fire for the adults by night.  

And... here's my sweet niece Lily playing dress up. She's the cutest thing on that porch! :) 

Thanks, Rachael, for having me help you with your new coffee spot! Can't wait to see it in person. 

And if you want some design help or advice, don't hesitate to contact me. I'm an interior designer based in Savannah, GA, but can help anyone near and far on any budget. I'd love to work with you! 

Lately

Last week was my birthday... anyone else sort of feel like it's just another day the older you get? Ha. I had to work on my birthday, but at least my job is a fun one. I spent the morning checking out lighting for a client. Currey & Co. just does it right. 

This little girl sang "Hapa Birdy" to me at breakfast. Melt. My. Heart.

My aunt watched Evans that night so that Hubs and I could go on a date. He took me to Alligator Soul for one of the best meals I've had in Savannah since we moved here. It's hard for me to get dolled up while pregnant. Nothing fits right, swelling, yada yada. But, a good meal like that was totally worth it!  Thanks, Hubs.

ready to go out, and E's big girl bed was just delivered...

If you are traveling to Savannah, I definitely recommend Alligator Soul. The service was excellent and they made the evening very special. We started out with the alligator fritters and the salad. Best croutons I've had in my life! They were like a cross between a breadstick and a piece of cake. Holy cow. Hubs had the shrimp and grits, which comes with fried okra. Amazing. I had the "Little" Hilbo. This steak was 16 ounces, not that little! Most of it came home with me. It was served with duck fat pommes frites. Oh my. I could have eaten my weight in them. We had all intentions of ordering dessert, but were way too stuffed. We plan to go back in a few weeks and get the banana beignets.

We've made some progress around our house lately. Hubs has FINALLY been home long enough to start painting the guest room/nursery. It's going much lighter and brighter. 

Evans got a BIG GIRL BED! She's doing surprisingly GREAT with it, too. 

We finished painting the hall bathroom and hung a few things on the walls. These boat paddles are Hubs' old ones. He almost threw them out. The nerve! I saved them.

Hubs also installed the new foyer light. Love seeing a fun color as I enter the front door. 

I finished up a fun meeting with clients this morning selecting their new home's finishes. They went with blues and grays throughout. Be still my heart. 

Tomorrow I have another doctor appointment and ultrasound to check on things. Hopefully all is cleared up and baby is doing great. Say a prayer! Afterwards, the ol' hubby and I are going out to lunch together. This never ever happens. I'm excited! We are hitting up Green Truck Pub or Goose Feathers. Trying to check out some different Savannah spots we haven't ventured to yet. 

Here's to another full week ahead! 

New Job

Life has been CRAZY lately with all the Houstons have going on. We bought a house (the rental house we are already in) and have been busy preparing to renovate/paint/etc. I also started a new job a few weeks ago. SO RANDOM how this happened, but I couldn't be happier. Social media is a crazy wonderful thing, as if you all didn't know that. I was contacted by a designer here in Savannah that I followed on Instagram and that had read my blog and seen my art and design work. They didn't necessarily have a position open, but created one so that I could join the team! If you had told me 8 years ago when I was headed off to law school that I'd eventually wind up in interior design... well I'd say to heck with law school! HA! No, in all seriousness, it just happened this way. I truly believe this is where God wants me to be using the talents He gave me. Everyone has that thing they feel they are meant to do, and I've fallen into mine.

So, am I glad I went to law school? Yes. I really am. I think it opened up opportunities for me I wouldn't have had otherwise. It also made me understand business, entrepreneurship, and made me think about things in ways I wouldn't have before. For that I'm glad. I also made some of the most amazing friendships through law school and King & Spalding and I would never take back meeting all of my wonderful legal peeps. :) Will I ever practice again? I don't know. For now, I'm extremely happy and feel blessed to be doing something that I truly love. I can't say that I was ever passionate about law, it was just something I did and could do. Every free moment I had you'd find me browsing fabrics, flipping through magazines, making mock up sketches of room designs, and crafting mood boards. I now do these things and get paid for it. Pinch me please.

No, the money isn't quite as good, but the headaches are fewer and my soul is filling up everyday. I can't put a price on that.

My new title? Showroom & Studio Manager, Assistant Interior Designer for S. Tallevast Interiors, Curry & Co., and Floy Home. Hot dog!

Savannah people, come by and see us at Cohen's Retreat! Our retail store is located in the Brown Dog Market, and the website will be up and running soon (floyhome.com). See you soon!

Design Q&A: Rethink Design Studio

Continuing the design q&a today, I had the opportunity to chat with the brains behind Rethink Design Studio. They offer a wide array of services, from interiors to lighting to construction management. One of my favorite designs they completed is the restaurant Local 11 Ten. If you've ever been there, you know how cool and swanky the place is. Absolutely gorgeous (and the food is amazing, too!).

Local 11 Ten

Here's a look into their world in design. 

Rethink Design Studio

What's the biggest challenge you face as a designer? 

Fulfilling the client's wishes and vision within the project parameters. Factors such as space, timeline, and budget can cause us to think outside of the box when it's time to shift from concept to design development. 

Rethink Design Studio

Describe your personal style at home.

As a design studio, our personal styles vary with each team member but all seem to revolve around creating a comfortable, clean interior that blends old with new. Joel and Erika's home acts as a fresh retreat with natural light and mid-century lines, while Sarah's abode is more grounded and family-oriented with emphasis on gathering places. EMK shares a 1970s cottage with another interior designer which results in an eclectic blend of vintage and glam that both inhabitants identify with. 

Do you have a go-to paint color? 

1487 Herbal Escape by Benjamin Moore. In our opinion, this is the perfect warm neutral that seems to go with everything. We've used it on walls, cabinetry, even matching moulding. 

What's an easy way for someone to freshen up a space?

There's nothing more powerful than a fresh coat of paint. Dare to be bold and go white or lighter than what's existing; and don't forget about trim and ceilings!

What's been your most memorable project?

A beach house we built from the ground up on Tybee Island. The design process yielded such a strong connection to the family and the final space speaks to Rethink's most valued design fundamentals: respect the past, create in the present, and look confidently to the future. 

Rethink Design Studio

If someone is designing their own custom build, what tips should they keep in mind?

Be completely honest with yourself. Take time before beginning the process to get realistic about your needs, budget, time frame. Don't hesitate reaching out to local professionals (interior designer, decorator, architect) to get a clear idea as to the existing and potential project scope so there are little to no surprises along the way. 

Rethink Design Studio

What would you say is timeless in design?

Scale and proportion are two of the most important fundamentals of interior design. So often we meet homeowners who have an understanding of their personal style but nothing seems to be working together. This is usually due to improper scale within the home. An interior designer is well trained to spot these inconsistencies and will work with you to create a space that fits appropriately to both your home and your style. 

Rethink Design Studio 

Any advice to give those just starting their career in design, or that are aspiring to get into the field?

Be a sponge. Learn everything and anything you can about design and running a business. This may include acquiring the proper education in that field, taking workshops and seminars, or finding a local professional who will mentor you in their practice. Even the most seasoned designers are always learning and taking cues from outside sources of inspiration; don't put any of that above you, especially when starting out. And good luck!

How has the city of Savannah influenced your work?

Savannah is an ever-evolving city that is constantly pulling in the opposing directions of old and new. As a historic town that fosters a creative community thanks in part to the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), there are limitless sources for inspiration. A simple walk down Bull Street will have you in awe of the classical architecture while crossing paths with a fashion blog photo shoot; the collaboration opportunities are endless. 

For more from Rethink Design Studio, check out their portfolio, instagram, and Facebook. Thanks so much guys! It was a privilege talking to you. 

Design Q&A: Anne Hagerty Interiors

If you follow my Facebook page, then you already know I've had the privilege of chatting with Savannah's elite designers. Kicking off the design series Q&A is Anne Hagerty of Anne Hagerty Interiors. A peek into her portfolio and you'll see it's no wonder why her show room on Savannah's Broughton St. is a popular place. To me, her designs are fresh and sophisticated. It was a pleasure interviewing Anne and getting her insight on interior design. 

Anne Hagerty Interiors

How did you get into interior design?

I didn't know the profession existed when I was growing up. I studied Art History and Classics in college (Boston University) and interned at the Museum of Fine arts. After college I worked for a contemporary art gallery in Boston, which allowed me to have a lot of interaction with architects and interior designs. Being exposed to the profession first hand is when I decided to do my graduate work in Interior Design at SCAD. I feel very fortunate to have found a career I enjoy so much. 

Portfolio: SCAD High Point Exhibition Design 2009

What's the biggest challenge you face as a designer? 

Besides the headaches of back ordered fabric and paperwork to keep organized for each job (laughing here)?  One of my challenges that I truly enjoy is helping our clients find their own unique voice and style.  There is so much information about design available to the public today – through blogs, HGTV, internet shopping.  It can be overwhelming and a lot of our clients get lost in the sea of information.  It’s challenging and enjoyable to help them navigate through that and come out with a finished project that is truly personal and well designed. 

Anne Hagerty Interiors

Anne Hagerty Interiors

Describe your personal style at home. 

Minimal, breezy, understated.  I grew up in coastal Massachusetts in a nineteenth century shaker style house, so home to me is an environment with clean lines, balanced proportions and textures to achieve warmth and interest.   

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

Do you have a go-to paint color? 

Benjamin Moore’s ‘White Dove’.  It looks great in all lights, on walls, trim or cabinets.  Maybe it’s the New England in me, but I also can’t resist Benjamin Moore’s ‘Puritan Gray’ as well.

What's an easy way for someone to freshen up a space? 

We do a lot of kitchen “refreshes” where we  paint cabinets, install new countertops and a backsplash, change out a light fixture and update window treatments.  For other rooms, I recommend looking at how you really live in the space, it’s amazing how many people live with seating arrangements that don’t really work for them.  Move your sofa and chairs around.  Add a new rug, light fixture, window treatments and a coat of paint.  There you have it, a new space!

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

What's been your most memorable project? 

Every project is special in its own way.  While the larger scale commercial projects are exciting, the small renovations in people’s homes are rewarding, because we can see that just a few updates can really change the way someone lives in their home.  And I always love working with clients on new construction – we are working on a great house with clients in Bluffton, SC now.  It’s always fun to see a totally new environment come to life and how excited the clients get experiencing it for the first time.

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

What would you say is timeless in design? 

Timeless is not  themed.  When everything in a room is an antique or everything is Modern, it can feel stuck in time.  Blending antique furniture, contemporary art, and classic architectural elements never goes out of style.  The Europeans know how to do this so well – just look how the architecture in Paris or Copenhagen (some of my favorite cities) has evolved over the centuries.  Timeless is beautiful design, no matter the century or decade…why not pair your grandmother’s art and antiques with a Saarinen chair and Henningsen artichoke lamp?

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

Any advice to give those just starting their career in design, or that are aspiring to get into the field? 

Do your homework.  Whether you go to design school or are self-educated, it’s important to be knowledgeable about many aspects of design.  Space planning, lighting, building materials, fabrics and furniture.  While you don’t need a degree in architecture to be an interior designer, it is our job to communicate with architects, engineers, contractors and tradespeople, so understanding their roles and where you fit in is important.  And don’t be afraid to work hard – this job is not glamorous.

Anne Hagerty Interiors Portfolio

How has the city of Savannah influenced your work? 

I love Savannah for it’s beauty as well as the characters who live here.  It’s taught me to embrace a little more decadence and formality in design, but in a lighthearted way.

Visit Savannah

What can customers look forward to from your online shop? (So exciting by the way!) 

We are really excited to offer an online shop on our website.  It will feature the furniture, art and accessories we have in our showroom as well as other pieces we love.  The convenience of shopping online is crucial for our busy lives today, so to be able to offer a curated look will hopefully save a lot of people a lot of time to find what they are looking for.  

Anne Hagerty Interiors

If you are local, be sure to stop in and say hello at Anne Hagerty Interiors, 421 E. Broughton St, Savannah, GA 31401. For more inspiration from Anne, check out Anne Hagerty Interiors instagram and Facebook page, as well as the blog. Thank you so much, Anne, for sharing your knowledge and expertise!