I first discovered Maggie Stephens Interiors when I pinned one of her images to my Pinterest board. I wanted to do a “get the look post” with this image and clicked around to find the source. Insert Maggie Stephens Interiors. If you browse through her portfolio, you will find gorgeous photos and so much design inspiration. I also love that Maggie first got started with her design blog back in 2008 which eventually expanded to her taking on design clients online and local projects (this already has me thinking for some future projects down the road).
I applaud people who can take their passion and seriously turn it into a full-time gig even if they’re not “formally educated” in the space. So today I bring you coffee talk with Maggie! Be sure to follow along with her on her blog, Twitter and Pinterest!
1. What are your top three interior design tips and tricks?
A. Diversify your lighting sources. From chandeliers to pendants, I like to use a mixture of table lamps, wall sconces and ceiling fixtures. I recommend using lower wattage bulbs spread across three or four lamps instead of one lamp with a high wattage. It creates a cozier atmosphere.
B. Buy bigger rugs. Try to place rugs a foot from the walls. Most people by rugs that are too small. However, for renters I break this rule. I recommend 8×10’s or 9×12’s because they are more likely to fit in your next home as well.
C. Rooms need history. Spend some time at flea markets or antique malls and buy something vintage or antique that catches your eye. I love pairing new upholstery pieces with vintage tables or lamps. Mixing older pieces in a room makes the room feel less like a catalog.
2. Favorite Color Combinations: I love neutrals the most but I can’t resist a good tomato red paired with lavender. It always feels fresh to me.
3. What are three of your favorite products on the market right now? The Aerin Lauder Collection at Circa Lighting is amazing. I’m dying to use two of these chests in my bedroom in lieu of nightstands.. sadly they are too big! This little bench is quirky and charming.
4. Coffee Table Staple: Books, a tray, something weird.
5. Best Piece of Advice You’ve Ever Received: It’s only failing if you stop trying. Also, write everything down.
6. Must-Have Coffee Table Books: An Eye for Design by Allegra Hicks, Vanity Fair Portraits (everyone loves looking through this one), and my new favorite (being new to California) is California Design, 1930-1965: Living in a Modern Way.
7. Motto: Dream bigger, work harder, make time for fun.
8. Magazine/Go-To Sites: House Beautiful Magazine has been awesome lately. I still prefer glossy to online! Pinterest of course and recently discovered Domaine Home.
9. Guilty Pleasure: Chocolate or anything covered in cheese. Also, binge watching shows on Netflix. My husband and I are currently obsessed with Adventure Time.
10. One Interior Designer You Look Up To: I have loved following Lauren Liess and her firm. She has a gorgeous, unique style and her work continues to get better. She had a similar start in the business as me (i.e. we both took a leap to follow a passion) and I consider her a role model!
< Images via Maggie Stephens Intiors >
