Interior Design First Impressions

1. DEFINE YOUR DESIGN STYLE

Eclectic design does not have to be a vast mix of anything under the sun. With a few key elements, a good mix of old and new furniture, and accessories, an eclectic design can convey your true design style. Utilizing traditional and modern accessories can achieve this balance.

2. MATCH THE SCALE OF THE ROOM

Larger spaces require large-scale pieces. When creating the basic layout plan, start with all of your major selections. Then begin adding layers and finishing touches, keeping that same sense of scale. This will yield a well-designed room that is balanced and not too cluttered. For example, utilize an extra-long tufted sofa, large floor lamps, and mirrored accent tables.

3. EXPOSE THE HISTORY

Studying and exposing history in your design plan is one way to add context that will impact the understanding and enjoyment of a space in a positive way. Having a sense of how the space may have been used in the past and featuring elements from that past connect and ground the way we live. For example, highlight the original features like brick walls and wood floors.

4. DESIGN MULTIFUNCTIONAL SPACES

Create a dining area that can also function as a small conference room or Zoom call space. Then you will always be ready with a few additions or subtractions to host an intimate dinner, festive gathering, or work from home with ease and style.

KIMBERLY VARNER, ASID, NCIDQ

KIMBERLY VARNER INTERIOR DESIGN

423.618.5664

@KVIDTN @KV4JC

1. ENHANCE YOUR STYLE WITH WOVEN SHADES

Woven wood shades, or bamboo shades, have a natural, organic look and lend themselves to many current interior design styles: cottage, modern, global travels, and even farmhouse. Warm, textured, and available in a variety of fabrics, they are the perfect custom touch to any home. Remember to order them lined in a light-filtering fabric to keep the sun’s harmful rays at bay and to protect the shade itself.

2. DESIGN WITHOUT LIMITS

By far and away the most requested fabric window covering right now, Roman shades have huge appeal. Functional, beautiful, tailored or fancy, operated with cords or even motorized, they are a very hardworking window covering for the investment. With many colors and textures, there really are almost no limits!

3. ADD LUXURY WITH SHEERS

A staple in homes in the ‘60s and ‘70s, sheers are suddenly back on the interior design scene, appearing everywhere in a thousand fresh new sheer fabrics. In addition to adding luxury to any space, they can be constructed in a sleek ripplefold style, hung from the ceiling, and motorized to make them easy to use. The classics never go out of style.

4. STYLE WITH SHUTTERS

Timeless, practical, and extremely durable, shutters continue to be one of the most requested window coverings, with white painted shutters leading the way. Consider an alternative paint color or a natural stained wood shutter – and yes, they look great in a window with white woodwork. You may also consider trying them as one single panel per window and skip the fussy tilt bar, opting for a hidden tilt mechanism.

Nancy Waddell

Chattanooga Window Treatments

423.645.5526

@chattanoogawindowtreatments

1. USE THE POWER OF FLOWERS

When preparing for guests, fresh flowers are an easy way to make one’s home feel inviting, lively, and colorful. Placed in several rooms, the arrangements need not be difficult. Stay in one flower type and color, remove the greenery below the water line, and look for roses, peonies, or tulips whose petals will open to give a fuller appearance as they bloom. The fragrance is a welcomed bonus!

2. CREATE PERFECT LIGHT

A well-lit room is welcoming to all guests. Use dimmers to set the mood with a consistent level of warmth. A fixture like this gorgeous Paloma Contreras chandelier will accentuate all the wonderful finishes in your home.

3. COMFORT IS KING

When we design inviting, high-end spaces for our clients, they all share one thing: comfort. We love this chair for its tidy appearance and the generous way it sits. Makes you want to stay awhile!

4. DESIGN FOR INSTANT IMPACT WITH WALLPAPER

At Miles and Kirk, we love wallpaper for instant impact where needed. Whether to add color, softness, whimsy, joy, or even moodiness, wallpaper instantly sets the atmosphere.

RYAN KIRK KOPET & CHRISTIE MILES DENTON

MILES AND KIRK DESIGN LLC

423.774.5035

@MILESANDKIRK

1. ELEVATE YOUR SPACE WITH A FIRE TABLE

Fire tables provide a uniquely designed gas fire pit for an exceptional outdoor experience. Available in granite and a variety of other finishes, the Oriflamme Fire Table is the perfect addition to any outdoor setting. Fire tables make for a great gift or romantic evening by the fire!

2. SELECT STYLISH SEATING

It’s easy to relax in the Modern Curveback Adirondack Chair. These chairs feature spacious seat cushions, curved back slats, and a waterfall front for added comfort. This modern style and sleek profile is the perfect blend of contemporary and comfort that will complement any outdoor space.

3. UPGRADE YOUR GRILL

The Big Green Egg is much more than just a grill. It’s a complete outdoor cooking system engineered to be stronger, more durable, and provide better heat retention than any other outdoor cooker on the market. Convenience, ease of use, and fantastic cooking results truly set the Egg apart. Once you taste the difference, you’ll agree!

4. MAKE A STATEMENT WITH MOSAICS

Contemporary or classic, mosaic tables are always eye-catching. Each mosaic table is masterfully crafted to ensure the design will scale from a grand dining table all the way down to a small plant stand. These stained glass table tops can be used in both indoor and outdoor settings.

CARTER FOWLER

FOWLER BROTHERS CO.

423.493.7630

@fowlerbrothersco

1. ACCENT WITH ART DECO

While mid-century modern style isn’t going anywhere, people are starting to look to different eras for design inspiration, and Art Deco doesn’t disappoint. Featuring bold geometric lines, jewel tones, and exotic woods, this century-old aesthetic still has the drama to work for homeowners today. Putting a high-impact Art Deco-style fixture in an entryway will set a fearless tone for your décor.

2. EMPHASIZE ORGANIC SHAPES

You really can’t go wrong design-wise by copying Mother Nature. Taking your style cues from the natural world can lend a sense of calm to your space and mimic the silhouettes you see outside your window. Try incorporating a chandelier with a leaf motif or a pendant designed to look like branches.

3. OPT FOR NATURAL MATERIALS

In the same vein as choosing organic shapes, opting for natural materials in your light fixtures can help you bring the outdoors in and is a great way to add interesting texture to a room. Some examples to consider include rattan, shell, and stone.

4. LAYER WITH LIGHTING

In general, a room will appear too harsh if lit with only an overhead source. Bringing in different types and intensities of light to a space creates a multidimensional feel and will provide you with enough illumination to fit all your needs. Table and floor lamps are a classic choice to make a room feel cozy, but you can also use wall sconces and picture lights for the right accent.

Sonja Sartin-Kozelichki

SOUTHERN LIGHTING

423.892.5483

@SOUTHERNLIGHTINGCHATTANOOGA

@SOUTHERNLIGHTING_CHATTANOOGA

1. ADD PRIVACY TO YOUR SPACES

Privacy is a coveted element in any home. Your home should feel like a sanctuary, a space for you to unwind and rest. Utilizing privacy sheers in your home allows you to do just this. Not to mention, they make a beautiful addition to your windows!

2. SOFTEN HARSH LIGHT

Setting the mood with lighting is one thing, but using roller shades to soften harsh lights in your home is a great way to create a cozy ambiance. Roller shades come in simple yet impactful designs. Not only do they look beautiful in any space, but they’re also practical to boot!

3. MAKE MONOCHROME MAGIC

One way to create a clean, seamless aesthetic in any room is to design with monochromatic bases with pops of color. Aim for light furniture to brighten any space while using florals and accent chairs to add pops of vibrancy. Not only do the pieces look beautiful together, but they also provide ample seating for guests.

4. LEAVE A LASTING IMPRESSION

Guests form a first impression immediately as they enter your home. Having a clean, open entryway allows guests to feel welcome and not overwhelmed by clutter and mess. Add an entry table, accent mirror, and a pair of lamps to elevate the space and create a lasting first impression.

Kermit Purcell & Chris Stephens

TOTAL CONCEPTS

FURNITURE / 423.899.1114

SUN CATCHERS / 423.785.6865

@TOTALCONCEPTSFURNITURE

@suncatchersblinds @suncatcherstn

1. PROVIDE PLENTIFUL SEATING

When hosting family or guests, having adequate seating that promotes conversation is paramount. This casual modern sectional features architectural shaping, low, deep seating, and is designed to be both comfortable and on-trend. Its generous scale and Blend Down Cloud cushioning provide plush seating for the whole family. It also features French seaming and loose box border back pillows.

2. PLAY WITH TEXTURES

Add depth to any room by utilizing a mix of textures and colors. Lamps are a great way to incorporate this. This lamp features a heavily textured ceramic base, is finished with rust bronze undertones, and is accented with brushed nickel-plated details. The round hardback drum shade is a light beige linen fabric with natural slubbing.

3. ADD INTEREST WITH ART PIECES

Adding art to a room not only adds visual interest, but also allows you to show your personality! This painting does just that, featuring a russet landscape as it blends into the horizon. Making it seamlessly fit into any space, the canvas is mounted in a whitewash wood floater frame.

4. ANCHOR THE ROOM WITH STATEMENT FURNITURE

Anchoring any space is key to making sure the room feels easy and effortless. Large statement pieces not only provide this, but also provide a great hideaway for clutter! This solid mango wood cabinet has a beautifully pieced geometric front. Unique aged iron handles on each of the four doors make for great storage.

KRISTY STEELE

MANGO’S DÉCOR & CO.

423.304.5358

@MANGOSDECOR

1. ANCHOR THE INTERIOR WITH TIMELESS FURNISHINGS

Custom upholstery and classic casegoods that are tailored with universal design and durability present a timeless interior. Well-made frames, high performance fabrics, and neutral tones are encouraged to set a foundation of longevity, both in function and aesthetically.

2. INCLUDE UNEXPECTED DETAILS

Always try to include something unexpected in your interiors. Create moments that spark excitement like introducing a bold wall color in a powder room, mixing different styles in the same vignette, or showcasing out-of-the-box details.

3. ACCENT WITH NATURAL ELEMENTS

Whether it’s a wood-burning fireplace, casegoods in a natural finish, or freshly cut flowers, every interior should have an organic element to provide warmth and life. Woven sisal rugs (not jute!) are a great way to provide a comforting texture of nature to your space.

4. INCORPORATE PERSONAL ARTIFACTS

Your home should tell your story. Incorporating personal collections, cherished antiques, and storytelling artifacts in your home expresses your unique personality and lifestyle. Personal artifacts in an interior should curate conversations and leave a lasting impression.

Garrett Henson-Hinck

Henson-Hinck Designs

423.228.0733

@Henson.Hinck.Designs

1. KEEP IT SIMPLE

Plantation shutters are timeless and versatile. From classic to modern, formal to casual, there is a shutter for every décor. They are energy efficient, excellent for light control, a cinch to keep clean, and can be made to fit unusually shaped windows, all while increasing the value of your home.

2. MARRY FUNCTION AND STYLE

Roman shades are the perfect marriage of function and style. They are particularly well-suited for kitchens, bathrooms, and playrooms, as well as for windows with furniture below the sill. With seemingly unlimited selections in fabric or natural woven materials, Roman shades often provide that special something that other window treatments just can’t.

3. DRESS UP THE OUTDOORS

Exterior shades are the ticket to making the most of your porch or patio. Weather resistant fabrics in a multitude of colors and weaves provide on-demand comfort and style. Whether you need relief from the sun, privacy from neighbors, shelter from golf balls, or reprieve from insects, exterior shades can do the trick.

4. MAKE IT MODERN

Simple, versatile, easy to use and maintain – it’s no surprise that roller shades are a popular choice. Whether you dress them up or down or somewhere in between, you can achieve a perfect look for any space. Roller shades’ discreet clean look makes them the perfect fit for modern contemporary styles, and they are exceptional when motorized and fully integrated into home automation.

Jason Flaherty

River Valley Blinds Shades and Shutters

423.541.3100

@rivervalleyblinds

1. AMP UP STORAGE WITH STYLE

Who doesn’t need more storage? Might as well tuck things away in distinctive, stunning, modern heirloom style! This chest is a must-have, versatile piece with many applications. Placed bedside or as an accent piece, the rich, whimsical wood markings of natural burl are unmatched, pairing well with traditional and transitional styles or as a standalone standout!

2. ADD ART AND INTEREST WITH PROPERLY APPOINTED LIGHTING

Aptly named the Travel Chandelier, it’s easy to see how this piece creates interest in all different directions. Great lighting is essential to uplift any space. Why not make it dynamic, sculptural art with refined modern style?

3. FRESHEN UP A ROOM WITH RUGS

As a fresh field of spring flowers is to a landscape, this Oushak rug is to your room! The bright, vibrant foundation of pattern and color delights your senses and creates an atmosphere of life and beauty. Pair your favorite traditional pieces with this pop of color to create a timeless, welcoming style.

4. ACCESSORIZE WITH GLOBAL, TIMELESS PIECES

With utilitarian, Asian origins, the ginger jar has stood the test of time and travel. Originally used to store spices and vinegar, this iconic piece has many useful applications in new school design. As an eye-catching accessory and playful storage piece, you’ll find these jars whimsical and practical. We bet you’ll be so pleased at its style and versatility, you add to your collection through the years!

LINDSEY FROST

FROST DESIGNS INC.

423.541.5961

@frostdesignsinc

1. SCALE OR FAIL

Big mistakes are made when you enter a space and the console table is either dwarfed in size to the wall or sofa it is on, or it just doesn’t make a statement. A good statement is one that takes up good space, and a good console with clean lines always creates a timeless impression.

2. SCALE AND LAYER ART

Layering art is always a good idea, and oversized matting can create a really unique look. Both of these approaches can stand alone, but they are dynamite when they are paired. These tricks can assist with adding dimension to a wall where it’s important to take up room but not overwhelm the eye.

3. TWO IS BETTER THAN ONE

In the world of planters, we tend to find that when you have one small plant, it’s delightful, but adding a second one with a different size makes for a little more intention on a surface or a floor space. For example, we love to see fiddle-leaf figs accompanied by fiddle-leaf figs of a different size or shape.

4. LET THERE BE LEATHER

A leathered bench that is cozy but not too heavy is a find! When there is an opportunity to layer a little leather in a room, it’s always an instant elevation of style, but as with any heavy material, you have to watch for the right details on the framing. This piece, for instance, does a great job of keeping the lines light but the impact clean and intentional.

Cassie Courtney

featherlane design co.

423.779.6440

@featherlanedesignco

@featherlane.co