Designs don’t come from thin air – every designer pulls inspiration from outside sources before tapping into their own creativity. While some design elements are more recognizable than others, shared elements from nature, culture, and geometry are found throughout properties around the world. Whether you’re looking to revamp your own home or just want to see what is new and exciting in the field of design, we’ve compiled this list to share some of our favorite places to find inspiration in the hopes that they will inspire you, too.
Print may be less popular than it once was, but we work in a visual industry where it’s still very helpful to look through large glossy photos of homes. In particular, we love flipping through Milieu, Veranda and Dwell. Milieu is a quarterly publication who take a graceful approach to every story. Their design-filled pages evoke emotions as well the sense of being in a specific place. They cover stunning homes around the world as well as highlighting places to travel and stay. As we are Charleston-based, we enjoy the traditional homes and grandeur of Veranda. On the other hand, we also like Dwell, which features innovative, contemporary designs that get our brains thinking!
Local Architects and Designers
We have no shortage of talent in our area and as Charleston grows, designers and architects are expanding the boundaries of what’s possible. Some of our favorite locals include architects Beau Clowney and Maresca & Associates, and interior design studios Amelia Handegan, House of Nomad, and Elly Poston. A mixture of old and new, coastal and modern, they each have something unique that inspires us. Check them out – they might spark some new ideas for your own home.
We try to fill our Instagram feed with inspiring accounts related to architecture, design, home renovations, and decor. We’ve always been fans of @studiomcgee and their quest to create serene homes as well as @dominomag (pictured) and their helpful DIY tips. Lately, we’ve also been loving the stunning furniture from @rosetarlowmelrosehouse and the clever textiles and trims of @schumacher1889.
Charleston
When it comes down to it, the best design inspiration is often in our own backyard. Charleston is bursting with vibrant colors, awe-inspiring architecture, and natural beauty that never gets old. When we feel a little stuck, a walk around Marion Square, a visit to the Gibbes Museum of Art, or a day at the beach is more than enough to generate some new ideas. As many of our clients reside in the Lowcountry, the style of our home decor aligns with Southern and coastal sensibilities that echoes the attitude of Charleston. Exactly the way we like it.
Visit Our Pinterest or Our Charleston Showroom For More Inspiration
We keep a lot of our design inspiration on our Pinterest – if you haven’t taken a look at it yet, it’s a minefield of beautiful things. Once you have a general idea of your project, swing by our Charleston showroom to speak to one of our designers. With a wide selection of furniture, upholstery, and home accents, our three Charleston home stores are filled with lots of inspiration to bring your project to life.
Shop the Look
St. Lucia Console
A truly unique and intriguing statement piece, the St. Lucia Console celebrates texture and form with a layered natural rattan body and a delightfully curved base.
