Author: steve mckenzie's

Since first opening their doors in September of 2012, the interiors and lifestyle store, steve mckenzie's has grown to include custom textiles, fine art, and full-scale interior design business, as well as the sole Grange furniture representative for the Southeast, along with O & G Studio, The Old Wood Co., and many boutique fabric lines too. Of course, you'll find a delightful curation of tabletop, gifts, stationery, jewelry and more. steve mckenzie's showroom, located at 999 Brady Avenue NW. Atlanta, boasts a fabulous art studio, where store co-owner (along with wife, Jill) and namesake, Steve McKenzie, continues his passion, creating unique fine art. In addition to the art studio, this larger showroom also houses McKenzie Interior Design where the Steve and the team work on residential and commercial spaces. Steve and Jill, along with shop dog, Duke, welcome shoppers and clients alike to their location, with regular business hours Monday-Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturday 10am to 4pm.

Is It Time to Remodel Your Kitchen?

Published on June 5, 2020June 5, 2020 by steve mckenzie'sLeave a comment

We’re still home, a lot, all together. It looks like this will be the norm this summer. Let’s face it, if the kitchen isn’t working for you, not much else matters. Is it time to remodel your kitchen?

Finally fed up with the tiring work flow, dark cabinets and poor use of space, this owners of this 90s kitchen decided it was time to remodel, but without moving any walls, plumbing or electricity. Before and after photos tell this story, don’t they? You may want to take some notes…

before after, 90s kitchen, dark kitchen, dark countertop, remodel — Large but oddly trapezoid shaped island looks like it would be great but…it wasn’t!

before after, 90s kitchen, dark kitchen, dark countertop, remodel, hanging pot rack — The flow is pretty good on this side.

Steve McKenzie came on board this project, assisting the homeowners and their contractor with the goal of maximizing and updating the spacious yet awkward kitchen. The family of six enjoyed cooking together and entertaining and knew there had to be a better way to use the space. It was also time to update colors, lighting and finishes with an eye toward resale. Steve started with reconfiguring the kitchen island and removing the high-low feature that so many of the kitchens had. Take a look at the after photo.

Fraser After, atlanta kitchen, large kitchen remodel, modern kitchen — Inviting and invigorated kitchen island |photo by Christina Wedge Photography

By squaring off the island footprint, it became a focal point of this new cool blue-gray kitchen. Updated tile combined with dark pewter hardware and modern clear glass pendants gave it a brighter outlook as the hub of the home. The vivid antique area rug gave it added warmth.

Fraser After, atlanta kitchen, large kitchen remodel — Not only updated but added storage and warming drawer. Love that furniture leg detail! |
photo by Christina Wedge Photography

Fraser After, atlanta kitchen, large kitchen, modern kitchen — Eating area view of kitchen | photography by Christina Wedge Photography

Steve’s team refinished the existing Lazy Susan table and chairs, added new seat fabric and a bright modern light fixture to complete the update. The family was thrilled with Steve’s solutions to their problems. Updated with the perfect tile, paint and fixtures, improved function and work flow, all with minimal disruption, all boxes checked off.

Feel free to share this with a friend and know we appreciate your taking time to spend time with us. How can we help you and your home? We would love to hear from you at shop@stevemckenzies.com or @stevemckenzies on Instagram.

Celebrations Still Happen

Published on May 19, 2020May 22, 2020 by steve mckenzie's3 Comments

baby shower, celebration, McKenzie Design — Celebrations still happen!

I may have mentioned that our son and his wife are expecting their first child in June, a little girl. Right away, my daughters and I started planning a ladies-only celebration baby shower for March to celebrate this blessed event. Well, we all know that life came to a screeching, shelter in place halt in early March. The invitations were mailed, personalized cups and napkins and dreamy candles ordered but off course we cancelled it, keeping everyone safe and at home.

As the baby shower date approached, we decided to go ahead and set the table, making it special for the new mama-to-be via photos. For a refresher, here’s a quick party planning breakdown of what we used and why. First Creative Candles Barely Blush votives were the building block for the color scheme and celebration.

candles, celebration — Barely Blush votive candles from Creative Candles – hand-dipped, dripless, smokeless, unscented

Creative Candles, McKenzie Design — **Celebration planning details**
Sequins and Lipstick personalized cups and napkins | Creative Candles votive and ball candles |Ikea votive holder | Blabla Kids Josephine the elephant |Wedgwood Edme dishes | Target bed cover as tablecloth

This soft pink and mossy green palette paired beautifully with our Wedgwood Edme dishes. This is pretty pink quilt made a perfect table cloth backdrop for the candle lit setting of sweet nibbles and drinks. Get creative next time you set the table. Is there a vibrant scarf or shawl you can use on the table? Fresh flowers always add to the table too.

Sequins and Lipstick, McKenzie Design — So many napkin colors available with Sequins and Lipstick!

McKenzie Design, baby shower — Virtual celebration with McKenzie Design and family

It’s not the same, we know. But we are making the best of these days at home, finding ways to celebrate the big, and the little, things. Let us know what you are celebrating via email, tag us on Instagram and we’ll see you soon.

All photos by McKenzie Design.

Huff Harrington Fine Art + Steve McKenzie

Published on April 23, 2020April 22, 2020 by steve mckenzie'sLeave a comment

Did you know Steve’s art is available at Huff Harrington Fine Art gallery? Yes, that charming little house off Roswell Road, brimming with loads of art from Atlanta and abroad.

Remember when you were young or even now, you waited for that certain person to notice you, maybe smile, or ask you a question. You know you will be best of friends. If only your paths would cross. Well, we’re so pleased our spheres intersected and created such synergy. Here’s how it happened.

Love spotting Steve’s art in their Instagram feed

When the energetic and effervescent owners, Ann and Meg rang us for a lunch date last spring, we were delighted and accepted with a big smile. Over a delicious chick salad lunch, we exchanged useful tips and business insights. As the conversation flowed to art, they hesitated a second and then asked Steve to be part of their dynamic gallery. Wow! We were clinked our ice tea glasses in celebration.

Zenith II
Steve McKenzie — Zenith II by Steve McKenzie

If you’ve seen our homes or Steve’s design studio, you know how we value art into our living and working spaces. Art evokes emotions, dreams, smiles and happiness. The Huff Harrington Fine Art gallery does just that and is a feast for the eyes. Steve is proud to be represented there. Please visit online and let your eyes and soul wander.

Be sure you add Huff Harrington Fine Art to your list of “Places to Visit After Covid”. For now, you can peruse their online array of original paintings by American and French artists in all styles and media. Follow both @Stevemckenzies @smckenzieart and @huffharrington to engage your creative spirit and soar.

Stay safe and we’ll see you soon.

Steve McKenzie interior design Thomasville antique show

Weekend Getaway in Thomasville, Georgia

Published on March 17, 2020March 16, 2020 by steve mckenzie's1 Comment

Thomasville antique show — Entry to Thomasville Antiques Show by Steve McKenzie

Anyone else compiling a list of weekend getaway trips? We so enjoyed our recent weekend trip to Thomasville, Georgia, that we must share! It started off with Steve receiving a coveted invitation to design the entry way to the 31st Thomasville Antiques Show.

Much like a showhouse, he could think out of the box and keyed off this over-scale artwork from Wendover Art. Watch for a later recap of how he formulated his design plan.

Delighted that Thomasville is only a four hour drive from Atlanta, this charming village has something for everyone. We booked a charming VRBO cottage, perfectly appointed for us with super helpful owners. While much of our time was spent at the antiques show shopping and listening to the speakers, we did get a special tour one of the venerable southern shooting plantations, Pebble Hill Plantation.

Pebble Hill Plantation — Stately architecture of this magnificent Georgia Belle

No photography is allowed inside. But it wouldn’t have done the rooms justice anyway. The interiors are intact, down to the seahorse tortoise shell comb in the powder room, with Gracie wallpaper, over 20 sets of china, discrete bell pulls for the staff, and a lively family history.

Jill and Steve McKenzie outside Pebble Hill Plantation

After soaking up the history and timeless design at Pebble Hill Plantation, we enjoyed a fabulous lunch at Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop in downtown Thomasville. Are you a blue cheese lover like me? I highly recommend their Asher Blue.

Then we strolled along the bustling downtown sidewalks. We had to explore this amazing taxidermy shop, of course.

taxidermy Thomasville — Who can resist the taxidermy store?

Be sure to allow lots of shopping time, and don’t miss Firefly. It’s a magical place full of gifts for all ages, things you won’t see everywhere. Nan Myers is the mastermind of the magic, a talented event planner too. And there’s a local book store, toy store, clothing boutiques, and top it off with a chili dog from Billiard Academy’s walk up window.

Steve McKenzie Thomasville — https://www.cowtan.comSteve adding the final floral touches with simple magnolia branches.

Don’t you love that skirted table? Cowtan & Tout fabrics are a perennial design favorite of Steve’s. Easy way to update a hallway or side table too.

What cities and towns are on your weekend getaway list?

Why I’m Part of the Influencers of Midlife Conference

Published on February 14, 2020February 13, 2020 by steve mckenzie's2 Comments

Steve and I recently reviewed our calendars, looking ahead to the balance of Q1 and the opportunities in Q2. My eyes lit up at the Influencers of Midlife Conference, marked with colorful stars and underlines. It’s happening March 26 – 29 at the Hotel at Avalon, headed up by my dear friend, interior designer, over 50 fashion maven, Robin LaMonte. Steve wondered aloud and asked me why all the happy symbols (literally, in my journal)?

Italy, art, Steve mckenzie's — Grandparents, Steve and Jill enjoying the view at La Fortezza Italy

So I stopped to think, why am I excited about IOM? Here are my top reasons, and I think some of them may resonate with you too.

Hanging out with like-minded women for a whole weekend! Women who are life-learners, hard workers, active, and eager to share, and know where I’m coming from. My kind of peeps…
Learning from these women, everything from wellness to fashion tips to business advice. Midlife is a pivotal transitional point in our lives, many of us experience a spiritual and emotional renaissance.
I see myself through a different lens with these ladies. So much potential!
Sharing in a spirit of growth, support and kindness to each other and ourselves.

Quick peek at some of the fabulous speakers ~ Mitzi Beach, Vicki Gladle Bolick, Rhoda Vickers, Janet Coon, Linda Holt, Tonya Parker, myself and more. I’m making a list of all the questions – You Tube, podcasts, blogs, influencers – being intentional about learning from this fabulous tribe.

Design Bloggers Conference
Jill McKenzie Robin Lamonte — Jill McKenzie with Influencer of Midlife Founder, Robin LaMonte at the Design Influencers Conference

We’re in charge of what we do the rest of our lives. Invest in yourself at the Influencers of Midlife Conference this March!

Click here for ticket information. Hope to see you there~

How to Buy Art for Your Home

Published on January 17, 2020January 17, 2020 by steve mckenzie's3 Comments

Now that the Christmas garland is stored away for another year, you may be staring at your walls and want a fresh look in 2020.

Perhaps adding art has been on your list, so maybe now’s the time. Then it occurs to you, how do I find some art for my home? As an artist and art collectors, we get this question a lot. I guess when your walls are full, and I mean chock full, of art, I guess it’s an obvious question. We’ve got some easy tips for you, breaking it into actionable pieces.

Where do I find art for my home?

First tip, start local, explore your city. Now get out your calendar (digital or paper), as you have an amazing opportunity this month to see over 350 select artists in one spot at Spotlight on Art at Trinity school. Preview night is Monday, January 27 from 6 to 9pm. Another tip, make it a date night…it’s a very fun evening.

Many artists will be there (including Steve McKenzie), so as you are perusing the art, introduce yourself to them, ask about their process, say ‘tell me more about this piece’.

Steve McKenzie art — Cirque by Steve McKenzie which will be at Spotlight on Art

When I visit a gallery or show, I like to make a full run through of a gallery, then circle back to stop and ponder the ones that caught my heart. And that’s what it’s all about. What speaks to you. Don’t worry about investment, is it going to be worth something later – it’s about bringing joy into your life and home.
Two other favorite galleries are Huff Harrington Fine Art in Buckhead and Kai-Lin Art in midtown west. Sign up for their emails and get yourself out there, expand your horizons and see some new things.

Ready to go? Make a list…

Before you start shopping, make a list of places where you would like a new piece of art. Take measurements, even take a photo of the space. Does it need to run horizontally? Should it be a vertical? Could it be 3 dimensional? Keep this in mind as you look at art and remember you could always frame a small piece to be bigger. See how we added this vivid painting by Elias Rivera in an otherwise empty space!

Jill with a favorite painting by Elias Rivera. Photo Credit: CatMax Photography

Have fun with this! Art is good for the soul, mind and home. Show us what you find with the hashtag #inspiredtailoredauthentic.

Grateful for Home

Published on November 27, 2019November 27, 2019 by steve mckenzie's1 Comment

Our collection of over 40 vintage turkeys sets the mood for November

As November comes to a close, we’re grateful for being part of so many homes, near and far. Whether Steve has had the privilege of enhancing your home’s interior or exterior design, or perhaps you’ve added a piece of his art to your walls, or given a chair a facelift with his fabric, know we are truly grateful for your trust in us and our team at McKenzie Design.

cozy home warm inviting living room — McKenzie Design is now taking clients for early 2020. Contact us for a complimentary consultation.
Photo credit: Gustav Wilde

Wherever you are, enjoy your time with family and friends this Thanksgiving.

International Coffee Day

Published on October 1, 2019September 30, 2019 by steve mckenzie'sLeave a comment

Today we celebrate International Coffee Day, but isn’t every day a celebration of coffee? Having been a tea-only gal for years, coffee has grown on me, thanks to our three years of living in Colorado.

These days our favorite at-home method is Cafe Bustelo cold brew. How do you drink your coffee? Does it vary throughout the day?

coffee Jill McKenzie — Big swig of caffeine at The Southern C Summit in Charleston.

Actually, the orange Illy espresso machine was our first love, and still is for a satisfying espresso or special cappuccino with steamed milk. It still holds a place of honor in our kitchen as you can see in this photo. Next time you visit our design office or Steve’s art studio, let’s sit down and enjoy an espresso together.

Atlanta magazine HOME — Pops of orange in the McKenzie kitchen. Photo credit: Anthony Masterson

International Coffee Day takes into account all methods from drip brew, espresso, instant, iced and cold brew, our favorite method. If there are several coffee lovers at home, you may want to try making a batch of this smooth-tasting liquid black gold. Here’s the link to our inspiration from the Pioneer Woman blog. Be prepared as it does take some time (overnight) to brew and some time to strain it into your pitchers. But it’s so worth it! Mix with your milk of choice, add ice and maybe a swig of vanilla syrup for a special treat.

And as our talented friend, Kalyn Johnson says, Ok but first coffee. Now, go out there and slay the day!

Soothing Bedroom Retreat

Published on September 17, 2019September 16, 2019 by steve mckenzie's1 Comment

Steve McKenzie zen bedroom — Steve McKenzie designs a soothing bed for Peacock Alley

Atlanta interior designer, Steve McKenzie had the wonderful opportunity to design the bedroom of his dreams in Peacock Alley’s Designer Bed Series, a soothing retreat. Drawing from his experience in channeling clients’ needs and wants and his own, he created a calm cocoon, a get-away from the daily grind.

soothing bedroom — Cozy cocoon from the daily grind

Using his iconic loop fabric in a custom warm cafe au lait color, Steve created a cozy headboard to frame the setting. His fabrics are digitally printed, so easily customizable to work in any decor. The addition of framed artwork elevates the space and makes it personal. Remember it’s easy to change out seasonally too.

Peacock Alley offers so many choices of luxurious bedding styles, colors and fabrics. Steve had so much fun with their vast repertoire of sheets, blankets, duvets and more. White pique shams grounded the warm tones of the pillow shams, duvet cover and dust ruffle. As a special touch, a regal single monogram was added to the outside corner of the Grand Euro pique shams.

Steve McKenzie monogram — Steve created the outer corner monogram for the Grand Euro shams.

monogram pillow — Steve and his signature monogram

A layered bed with a mix of comfort, calm and sophistication

Many thanks to Peacock Alley (our go-to for quality bedding) for the Designer Bed Series collaboration. Give it some thought. What’s the bed of your dreams?

Friday | What We’re Loving

Published on September 13, 2019September 12, 2019 by steve mckenzie'sLeave a comment

On Fridays, we review the highs and lows of the week, pause to ponder, and then plan for the next few weeks.

This Friday, we are loving the buildup of excitement for the upcoming Fall Design Events at AmericasMart and ADAC, the Southeast’s most comprehensive dual-venue design resource, and Steve was tapped to highlight the collaboration between these two trade shopping destinations. Over the past month, he thoughtfully created luxurious curated vignettes at each location which will be open to the trade. AmericasMart is open from Sept. 23-25 and Discover ADAC is set for Sept. 24-26 – hope to see you there!

We love dahlias…that’s our September obsession, as you can tell from Steve’s instagram account. Thanks to the sustainably-grown flower and fruit farm, 3 Porch Farm, dahlias have graced our table for two weeks. Maybe we’ll see you at the Freedom Farmers Market on Saturday. While you’re there, pick up some fabulous heirloom tomatoes too, and then make Southern Living’s Tomato Pie recipe, a real showstopper.

Finally as we pause and look ahead, the holidays (can you say Hallmark movies) will be here before you know it. We have company coming this year and thankfully we are ready for guests anytime with our beautiful American Leather Sleeper Sofa. It really is superb because there are no bars, no springs, stylish and comfy. Find out more at Verde Home, and remember to #shoplocal.

	Rebecca Harding on 2022 Kick Off + Southern Home…
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