Art Archives - Page 3 of 13 - McKenzie Interior Design

Tastemaker Tuesday – Owen Masterson & Christine Anthony of Anthony-Masterson

Published on April 4, 2017March 28, 2017 by McKenzie Interior Design2 Comments

We have a treat for you all today! We’re thrilled to feature the husband-wife team that is Anthony-Masterson. This dynamite team specialize in photography and filmmaking. And their work is almost as fantastic as they are… Steve and Jill have gotten to know Owen and Christine by working with them on a number of design projects and have found such like-mindedness, as they’re also a couple that do just about everything together. We believe you’ll thoroughly enjoy this fun little conversation/interview and are so pleased to introduce you to the latest Tastemakers for the blog for steve mckenzie’s, Owen Masterson and Christine Anthony:

Christine & Owen of Anthony-Masterson Photography

We began shooting sixteen years ago determined to combine our individual talents. Before that Owen was working with some of the best cinematographers in Los Angeles as an actor and Christine was an in-demand food stylist. We had both spent a lot of time on sets observing what it took to get a great shot. Inspired, we picked up a camera and a bunch of film and began shooting. We started with food. Shortly after that a new stock agency dedicated to food photography began licensing our images. In 2001 we shot our first job. Since moving to Atlanta in 2005 we have been shooting Interiors, Food and Travel.

In 2008 we acted on a long held desire to make our pictures move and began experimenting with filmmaking. This led to a number of short films and two award winning feature length documentaries.

Working in both mediums provides great balance plus we get to travel a lot and work with some extraordinarily talented and interesting people.

1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?

Owen: Do we each get 3 words?

Christine: What have you got?

Owen: Fast, edgy and dangerous.

Christine: I think that describes you more than the aesthetic.

Owen: Okay, what have you got?

Christine: How about balanced, uncluttered and provocative?

Owen: That’s why I love you.

2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?

Owen: You go first.

Christine: I always go first.

Owen: Ok. Plaza Towers 25^th floor, stunning pied-a-terre, killer view of Atlanta skyline.

Christine: And the rich tones in the living room. What about the first interior project we ever shot? That beautiful home on the coast in Malibu owned by the Fluxus artist Van Schley and his wife.

Owen: Wow that was so long ago and we shot it on film!

Christine: And we hardly knew what we were doing.

Owen: The challenge was the light bouncing off of the Pacific Ocean into practically every room in the house. But we figured it out.

Christine: Speaking of the coast… what about the light in the house at Wrightsville Beach?

Owen: Love.

3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?

Owen: Christine. That was an easy one.

Christine: I guess I better say Owen. But really, it is Owen. When you live and work together 24/7 as a team you each bring something different to the party so it’s essential to be inspired by your partner’s vision – or madness.

Owen: I always know I’m in for something challenging when Christine says “Tell me if you think this is a crazy idea.” But we don’t live in a bubble so there’s the things we see and the people we meet in our travels that influence and inspire us as well.

4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…

Christine: That’s tricky. Only three?

Owen: John Lennon, the Pope, and it might get fun if say, Amy Winehouse comes.

Christine: The Pope choice seems off unless it’s Alexander Pope.

Owen: Okay, how about Jimi Hendrix, Jackson Pollock and Howard Finster?

Christine: Better. But I’d really like to cook for Joan Didion so one has to go.

Owen: Wait a minute, don’t we each get three?

Christine: We could be here all day… how about we move on?

5. A favorite type of space or even a favorite type of object/setting to photograph?

Owen: We love the skill set of shooting interiors. It’s so exacting, like a high wire act.

Christine: The placement and balance of objects.

Owen: The play of shadows and light.

Christine: The vignettes.

Owen: Capturing the more intimate moments that really express the personality of the room.

Christine: But there’s also a freedom to shooting the travel stories that we enjoy. Being out and about, anticipating, keeping an eye out for the shot.

Owen: Because we shoot so many different things: interiors, food, people, travel, and then there are the videos too, it’s like cross training. It keeps our imaginations limber and eyes fresh.

6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?

Owen and Christine: See it. Love it. Shoot it!

Christine: That’s been our motto from day one.

Owen: Of course our clients’ needs come first but we always try to take the shots further than they had imagined; the angle, the frame, the composition.

Christine: And then there’s the lighting. We shoot primarily with natural light and Owen is the master of light and shadow so we like to wow our clients with the lighting.

7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”

Owen: Playing records

Christine: Owen is the house DJ, he spins, I cook. I love long hours at the dinner table or on the deck with close friends.

Owen: Christine is a great cook so the dinners are always good. And then there’s the wine and the conversation.

Christine: It’s like the exact opposite of social media.

Owen: Which is anti-social

Christine: So you’d say social media is over?

Owen: Definitely over. And out.

8. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?

Christine: Do we each get one thing?

Owen: Fire.

Christine: That way I could cook. So maybe I’d bring a knife.

9. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the photography design industry.

Owen: I’d give the same advice we were given when we started. Just do it!

Christine: It’s a process and you have to work at it to find your eye. Just make sure you understand the business end of it. That can be the most difficult part for creatives.

Owen: Find your passion. It’s an art form even if you’re shooting plumbing supplies. It’s a journey and you should have adventures doing it.

Christine: Oh, the places we’ve been…

Okay, so that was a lot of fun, right?! We need to find more dynamic duos to feature in our Tastemaker series! At least ones with such wonderful senses of humor… And isn’t their work divine. The way they work with lighting – it’s magical. And they make our spaces look absolutely phenomenal. We’re fans of Owen and Christine’s and are willing to bet that after reading this post you are too!

Art up for auction!

Published on March 23, 2017March 22, 2017 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

Steve, along with a slew of other artists, both from within and beyond our local interior design community, will have art up for auction at the ASID Art Auction benefiting the American Cancer Society next Thursday evening!

This artful event is open to the public and all proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society. Tickets can be purchased here.

ASID Georgia Art Auction Benefiting American Cancer Society

at the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center

Thursday, March 30th, 2017 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT

351 Peachtree Hills Avenue Northeast Suite 403, Atlanta, GA 30305

We look forward to celebrating some fantastic artists and fundraising for a great cause! Please feel free to reach out to the team at steve mckenzie’s with any questions…

Who you NEED to Meet: Mariana Barran of Hibiscus Linens

Published on February 28, 2017February 28, 2017 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

Fact, beautiful, hand-embroidered linens never go out of style. Another little fact for you, handmade linens make an ideal gift, any time any place. Always. Our friends at Hibiscus Linens take the art form that is handcrafted linens to another level. The time they put into creating each luxurious linen is obvious. Their fine, artisan linens are derived from centuries-old techniques. These pieces are absolutely heirlooms for tomorrow, and their designs are timeless and truly unique.

Our friend, and Hibiscus Linens’ founder, Mariana Barran’s work combines a modern aesthetic, which she combines with traditional textile and needlework techniques. As an artist, Mariana is passionate about preserving old world stitching methods, and we so appreciate the passion and time she puts into her work. Her love of linens is apparent, and she’s an absolute gem of a person to boot! We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce you to Mariana and share a bit about Hibiscus Linens with you in our latest “Who you NEED to Meet” blog feature.

sm’s: Can you please share a bit about your background/how Hibiscus Linens began and how you gained the courage to break out on your own?

Growing up there were always guests in my house—it seemed like “Throwing Parties” was my parents middle name. At each gathering, hibiscus tea was always present. Serving this special tea was something different that made everyone that came into our home feel warm and welcome.

Hibiscus Linens is as special as the glass of hibiscus tea we gave to our guests. Every piece of our linens is made by hand and combined with delicate traditional techniques to create beautiful linens for your home and your own guests.

When I was eight, I began learning needlework techniques at school and through the women in my family. I loved it! It was a creative outlet that allowed me to see a full process from start to finish, from creating an idea to see it executed. My mom always encouraged me to be a problem solver. If you can’t find what you want, make it! She used this idea for everything, from party planning and recipe making to bedding and personal clothing. She was crafty and resourceful and thank god it was passed down on my DNA.

sm’s: What inspires you/your work?

Hibiscus Linens was born for the passion of entertaining and gatherings with a finely made table setting. Our linens are vintage inspired new pieces for your home, not your grandmother’s old linens—though she would be proud of their quality.

The techniques we use are almost nonexistent on today’s market due to the effort and time it takes to produce. All of our products are made in small batches to ensure the quality and the unique style of each. We pride ourselves on the craft of our linens which provide a perfect balance between detailed elegance and modern daily accents.

Currently, I find myself immersed in old textile books, looking, learning, exploring the possibilities of techniques left behind in history and finding ways to bring them back. Studying each stitch is my inspiration.

sm’s: What is your vision, not only for Hibiscus Linens, but also your individual creations?

My vision is to make Hibiscus Linens the needlework and textile design center that we all need. I believe that people are moving back to have timeless pieces that will last for generations to come and we can provide them with the highest level of craftsmanship.

The company has grown so much – it’s not just my work in Houston that we are offering, but a network of artisans who have unique talents and need an outlet for their art. For example, my cousin, Jimena, just graduated from Textile School and she will be the head of our handwoven department, we already have an everyday hand woven cotton napkins collection and we are working on having a full pillow collection by this summer.

sm’s: Do you have any “mainstays” in your work – is there something you’re always drawn to?

Whitework! White fabric with White thread is my all time favorite, it looks elegant, modern and its so forgiving! If you have a white on white tablecloth and someone spills wine during a dinner party you can always take the spot out! From my point of view is the best combination! It’s a basic that you need to impress your guests.

sm’s: What are the differences in your collections – i.e. how do you create such unique designs that remain a part of one, cohesive line?

Most of it is listening to people. The techniques we use are always the same, crochet, hemstitching, embroidery but everyone’s story is different that is what makes our possibilities limitless. It doesn’t matter if we are planning a handkerchief for your daughters wedding or a bedroom for a new baby; I always spend time with our clients to understand what adds value to them, what they want and what they will cherish for years to come. I also find inspiration in my travels between my house in Houston and my Hacienda in San Miguel de Allende… sometimes a perfect flower on a Saturday morning is all it takes to create a new cocktail napkin design.

sm’s: What do people need to consider when looking to purchase a Hibiscus Linens creation?

They need to consider what makes them happy, what will add shine to your everyday life. These linens are not to be kept in a box for the “special occasions” they are supposed to elevate everyday living.

sm’s: What’s on the horizon for you/Hibiscus Linens?

We need to keep spreading the word of old world stitching techniques and we are working on opening our studio in Houston later this year, so we will be able to host an ongoing curriculum of needlework classes and offer an elevated textile design center.

sm’s: As an artist/business person how do you recharge?

As an artist I like to read, and explore other creative outlets like Baking or Calligraphy.

sm’s: Anything else you our readers would enjoy learning from you?

I am coming to the steve mckenzie’s showroom on March 16th and 17th to teach two days of intensive workshops, focusing on Antique French Monograms and Modern Monograms. I am looking forward to it!

Yes – if you’d like to learn more about Mariana’s time at steve mckenzie’s, please give us a call or email us. We’re so looking forward to learning even more about this art form and sharing it with all of our friends and clients here in Atlanta! And please stop into the showroom soon to take a look at these stunning, bespoke linens for yourself… We think you’ll fall in love.

Tastemaker Tuesday – William Peace

Published on January 31, 2017January 31, 2017 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

For many in our industry, this week’s Tastemaker required no introduction. It’s our friend, William (or “Bill,” as many of your may know him) Peace of Peace Design. You know a Peace Design when you walk into one of his amazing spaces. While they may be standouts, they always have a timeless feeling and a nod to the individual function of the space and its inhabitants. We’re thrilled to share a bit about Bill with you today and are grateful to him for agreeing to be a Tastemaker here on the blog for steve mckenzie’s!

bp_headshot_cropped_less-red — William Peace

William Peace is known for his sophisticated, approachable interiors that are clearly defined. Founder of Peace Design, a full-service interior design firm with offices in Atlanta and Bozeman, Peace has created interiors for signature residences, destination restaurants, museums and select showrooms throughout the country. His striking interiors have been featured in the pages of Architectural Digest, Veranda, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles and multiple luxury publications including, Ranches of the American West and Rustic Elegance. He is also a frequent guest speaker at various design events within the design community both in the Southeast and Rocky Mountain regions.

1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?

Collected, Curated, Timeless (there’s also textural and comforting!)

2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?

A space I favor is filled with warmth of hearth, rich in texture, personal treasures and is comfortable in serenity and times of celebration with family and friends. When these elements thrive whether it be a rustic lodge, modern high rise apartment or elegant southern farmhouse it will be captivating.

3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?

Inspiration comes from traveling to unique places, the art and artisans I encounter, nature and a sense of place. I also draw directly from my clients’ interests and desires for a truly special home.

4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…

Rudolf Schindler for architectural inspiration

Elvis Costello for lyrical conversation

Jack Nicholson….just because he’s Jack!

5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?

I am drawn to a sense of history in a unique piece of furniture. A beautiful walnut 17th century Italian Baroque Credenza with authentic patina can hold its own against most anything, although I could say the same about a modern classic chair designed by Jean Michel Frank designed in the early 20th century, and I believe they can compliment one another in the same room beautifully.

6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?

The combination of layered texture found in nature…stone, wood, leather, steel, silk and cotton can allow subtle contrast in architecture and interiors that will remain timeless and classic.

7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”

Quality is the only trend I believe is worthwhile. Quality is classic, luxurious and comfortable!

8. How does artwork fit into your designs?

Artwork is personal! I feel that art whether painting, photography or sculpture add soul to a space. I am passionate about my own collection and enjoy working with clients to assist with creating a meaningful body of work. I also feel a thoughtful lighting design and proper framing program will enhance any collection.

9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?

A deluxe machete would be helpful!

10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.

Research and interview with a number of design schools and find the best fit. Explore architecture, fine art, photography and of course business classes and then find an internship with a great firm….work hard and good luck will find you!

Just brilliant! And that may be one of the most unique responses to our desert island question thus far. Leave it to Bill. Smart, practical, but his own unique style. Cheers to Bill Peace and his willingness to share a bit of himself with us!

What’s Steve up to now?

Published on January 10, 2017January 10, 2017 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

A LOT. That’s what! Early 2017 is shaping up to be a very busy season for our namesake, and we know Steve would love to see you out and about at the many industry events lined up in and around Atlanta in the coming weeks… So, we thought we’d give you all a little rundown of what Steve will be up to in hopes for a happy meet up with any of you!

First on the agenda is an event at AmericasMart, “Home for the Holidays: Setting the Trends in Tabletop & Seasonal Decor.” Steve is speaking alongside some topnotch industry tastemakers, including Julia Reed, Bonnie Mackay and our great friend, Annette Joseph – not to mention the presentation will be moderated by Eugenia Santiesteban Soto, Senior Style Editor of Better Homes & Gardens. This is a not-to-be-missed event is taking place THIS Thursday. And keep in mind, it’s never to early to start planning for your next spectacular holiday season!

Next up is the ADAC January Tour, “Interior Perspectives: A Tour of Palettes to Pillows with Cindy Bargainer,” in which Steve will be a featured artist in the Martin Nash showroom. As Cindy leads the tour, she’ll be introducing designer/artists in a number of showrooms where they’ll have an opportunity to share their creative process and how their artworks translate to wall coverings, textiles and the like. This event will take place on January 26th from 10am-noon and it’s sure to leave you inspired!

In the midst of these exhibits and presentations Steve is also painting a bathtub. Yes, a bathtub. The Kohler Signature Store of Atlanta, in partnership with Kallista, is holding the Circe Artist Event CEU and a raffle for a Kallista Circe freestanding tub! This tub is to be painted by our very own Steve McKenzie and proceeds from the auction and event will go to the United Way of Greater Atlanta charity! Phew – talk about the pressure. It’s on… So keep an eye out for this fine piece of art for your bathroom!!

Finally, early February brings on one of our every favorite events of the year, The Southern C Summit!! This year’s Summit is taking place on Sea Island (swoon!) and together, Steve and Jill will be presenting a seminar titled, “Plan B: Reinvention and Multiple Revenue Streams.” You may remember first learning about The Southern C when we introduced you to founders, Cheri Leavy and Whitney Long, in a Tastemaker post from this past year. Needless to say, we’re tickled to have an opportunity to participate in this year’s Summit!

Okay – so, where will we be seeing you over the next month?!? We’re looking forward to the networking, inspiration and fabulous times these events are sure to bring!

Who you NEED to Meet: Erin Weston of Weston Farms

Published on December 15, 2016December 22, 2016 by McKenzie Interior Design2 Comments

It’s that time of year… The time magnolia leaves find their way indoors and sprinkled throughout our holiday decor. Perhaps you procure yours from a nearby tree in your community in the dead of night (not that we’d know anything about this or condone this illicit behavior!) or from a magnificent magnolia right in your own backyard. But, one thing’s for sure – they aren’t as beautifully curated as Weston Farms‘ magnolia creations.

Today, we’re sharing a little Q&A with Weston Farms’ Creative Director, Erin Weston. Her work has graced the pages of many-a-shelter publication, and is truly stunning. We’ve had the good fortune to work with Erin and have her in the showroom hosting magnolia arranging classes. She’s an absolute delight to be around and her work is truly inspirational! We hope you’ll enjoy getting to know her and her amazing arrangements as much as we have…

Named “The New Face of Gardening,” by Carolina Gardener in 2010, Erin Weston is the creative director at Weston Farms. Art, Nature, and Horticulture inform her work at Weston Farms.

In 2002, Erin Weston moved from New York City to North Carolina to help with her family farm. She wanted to create a luxury farm product grown and cultivated at Weston Farms that utilized her art background and incorporated her father’s horticultural knowledge. The Southern Magnolia wreaths, garlands and natural accessories from Weston Farms best express this desire and put a new spin on a familiar southern tradition.

Weston’s art direction of the “Horticultural Holidays at Weston Farms,” utilizes the best cultivated varieties of trees and plants chosen for color, texture, and rarity. Weston Farms grows highest quality Southern Magnolia exclusively for their wreaths, garlands and cut arrangements. Weston studied Art History at UNC-Chapel Hill and garnered her horticultural education by surrounding herself with the best and the brightest in the field.

sm’s: Can you please share a bit about your background/where Weston Farms began and how you gained the courage to break out on your own?

I studied art history at UNC, moved to Philadelphia, then NYC to work in publishing. Believe it or not, I was actually interviewed by MSO (Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia) on the day she was accused of inside trading! While working there, I was able to work closely with my dad (former horticulturist for the city of Raleigh) to create a production schedule with garden themes. I became really excited about all the content there and saw possibilities to be inspired by garden. Around the time Martha Stewart went to jail, my uncle left me 30 acres and my grandparent’s house in the middle of North Carolina suburbia. I worked to get it re-zoned as a farm and started the business with only one magnolia tree (my grandmother’s). From it, I created foliage arrangements to make money for that November/December. People kept coming back. Now, we’ve planted over 10,000 trees to supply foliage for year-round magnolia wreaths, Garland and natural accessories.

sm’s: What inspires you/your work?

The fine arts, museums, travel, nature, history

sm’s: What is your vision, not only for Weston Farms, but also your individual creations?

To create a luxury product defined by quality of craftsmanship, materials and rare ingredients/difficult to produce.

sm’s: Do you have any “mainstays” in your work – is there something you’re always drawn to in terms of arrangements?

Symmetry and asymmetry

Classical motifs

Creating arrangements that would look good in a barn or in a castle setting.

sm’s: What do people need to consider when looking to purchase a Weston Farms creation?

To be prepared for an abundance of exquisitely designed and cultivated ingredients, and to appreciate the time of craftsmanship it took to create.

sm’s: What’s on the horizon for you/Weston Farms?

Marry me Magnolia! (TM)

A foliage, bouquet, wreath and Garland line available year round based on our signature magnolia.

sm’s: As an artist/business person how do you recharge?

Travel, nature, art museums

sm’s: Anything else you our readers would enjoy learning from you?

If something seems too hard for too long, step back and modify your course.

After reading our Q&A session with Erin and looking at those supremely gorgeous designs, are you ready to introduce magnolia into your home – perhaps year round?! We are! It’s amazing what even a small Weston Farms arrangement can do to elevate a space. It’s magnificent!!

Take a look at the Weston Farms’ Instagram feed and tell us what you think next time you’re in the steve mckenzie’s showroom…

200 Years of Fashion History on Exhibit in Atlanta!

Published on December 13, 2016December 13, 2016 by McKenzie Interior Design2 Comments

A couple of weeks ago, Steve and Jill, along with a neighbor visited SCAD’s “Threads of History” exhibit, currently on view through March 19, 2017 at the SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film in Atlanta. The trio absolutely adored it and we wanted to share it with all of you – along with a giveaway of five general admission tickets!

SCAD Atlanta – Fall 2016 – Exhibitions – “Threads of History: Two Hundred Years of Garments” – Garment Documentation – SCADFash – Photography by Raftermen Photography — Photography by Raftermen Photography

Beautifully curated, this exhibit is guided by very knowledgeable student docents who add in depth details, which truly bring the garments to life.

The craftsmanship that went into the accessories on showcase is absolutely awe inspiring. While this may not be your typical museum exhibit, fashion is certainly an art form!

The above images share some garments that symbolize the shortening of hemlines at a time our culture was in a season of change. Aren’t they lovely?!

From SCAD about “Threads of History:”

This is a sartorial voyage through style and time celebrating the power of fashion and its capacity to reflect historical and cultural trends. Featuring rare European and American garments from the 18th through 20th centuries, the exhibition illuminates society’s shifting values as it traces the evolution of historic dress.

Photography by Raftermen Photography

“Threads of History: Two Hundred Years Fashion” offers viewers the unprecedented opportunity to examine womenswear, menswear and children’s ensembles from a range of distinctive periods, from the ornate Rococo era and the grand Belle Époque to the glitzy Roaring ’20s and the elegant New Look revolution following World War II.

Many of the garments on display appear courtesy of world-renowned Italian fashion professor and collector Raffaello Piraino, whose legendary collection, housed in Palermo, Italy, consists of more than 5,000 garments and accessories that belonged to the Sicilian aristocracy and bourgeoisie. Notable items from the SCAD Permanent Collection punctuate the exhibition.

And, for our local Atlanta friends, the SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film is accessible in the heart of Midtown and offers (bonus!) easy parking. While the “Threads of History” exhibit is included in general museum admission and is worth every penny, we’re thrilled to offer five you of a chance at winning free admission! Simply enter using the widget below and winners will be randomly selected on Monday, December 19th – good luck!!

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

We can’t wait to hear what you think of the exhibit, so please share a comment if you visit SCAD FASH or let us know next time you’re in the steve mckenzie’s showroom.

Tastemaker Tuesday – Michelle Workman

Published on December 6, 2016December 5, 2016 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

If you follow steve mckenzie’s on other social media sites, you may have seen us mention Michelle Workman, a phenomenal interior designer, based out of Los Angeles and Chattanooga. Steve was recently commissioned to custom paint the walls in her space for the Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles 2016 Holiday House and we’ve been fortunate enough to get to know Michelle and her work over the last year and she’s an absolute talent! We hope you enjoy getting to know Michelle in this latest installment of our Tastemaker series…

Born in Los Angeles, California, Michelle’s penchant for the craft was almost immediately apparent. Some of her fondest childhood memories were of her mother chauffeuring her about the neighborhoods to take in the endless array of visually arresting homes. As a budding young designer, Michelle frequently took pleasure in envisioning and fashioning her very own custom designed forts.

Described by those who know her as an “easygoing perfectionist,” Michelle’s philosophy is that interior design should embody the spirit and architectural style of the individual whose home is being transformed – literally, a physical manifestation of the client’s most inherent attributes. Michelle’s signature style is a mingling of the modern and vintage. And her engaging personality, calming demeanor and exquisite attention-to-detail continually instill confidence in her clients as she brings into being for them their one-of-a-kind dream home.

1. Three words that describe your aesthetic?

Elegant, Glamorous, Exuberant

2. Would you please share a little about your favorite space/project to date?

Hmmmm. Not sure I have a favorite, each project is so unique and a new adventure, they all have aspects to them that are favored!

3. What’s the source(s) of your inspiration?

Usually the client is the inspiration, but when I do a showhouse or exhibition I make up a person that I want as a client and I design for them.

4. Name three people (alive or dead) you’d invite to your dream dinner party…

Marie Antoinette, I have so many questions for her, politically, but also she was a revolutionary when it came to style. Ginger Rogers, she seems like not only talented but down to earth and bubbly and wise.. I bet she would have great stories about old Hollywood. Alexa Hampton, she’s a great designer but is also very well read and knows everything about design and design history, and she’s one of the funniest people in our industry. I think that would be a lively dinner party!

5. A piece of/type of furniture you couldn’t live without?

A chair. and another chair, and two more chairs, and then one more chair. I like chairs… oh and lamps too.

6. Do you follow a particular set of rules when mixing textures, finishes, etc. – how do they work for you?

I work very hard to bring disparate elements into harmony, the overriding rule is balance.

7. Trending… What is something you are currently “into” and something you are “over?”

Into… ART DECO. Over… gray and beige and taupe, drab, drab, drab.

8. How does artwork fit into your designs?

I try to use local and emerging artists. I love to get original pieces for clients even if they are not investment grade – I like to support young new artists this way.

9. What would be the one thing you would have if you were stranded on a deserted island?

A kindle with wifi.

10. Please share a piece of advice you’d offer to someone looking to break into the interior design industry.

Avail yourself of museums, and historic tours, and anything that will show you the finer things in life. Try to find things for your clients that are unique and one of a kind… not from big box stores.

Thank you Michelle! It’s been such a pleasure working with you and being a part of your outstanding designs!!

Right at home at the Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Holiday Designer Showhouse

Published on November 29, 2016November 28, 2016 by McKenzie Interior Design1 Comment

Right before Thanksgiving, we were fortunate enough to be treated to a media preview tour of the 2016 Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Home for the Holidays Designer Showhouse and it was a stunner. Truly. Every detail at every corner of every space was just impeccable and totally inspirational!

We urge you to plan a visit if you haven’t done so already – it will instantly put you in the holiday spirit, and if you’re already feeling festive, then you’ll just be envisioning even more sugarplums this season.

But – we cannot keep you in total suspense. See some of our favorite highlights below…

michelle-workman-and-walls-by-steve-mckenzie-1 — Photo by David Christensen

Michelle Workman’s amazing space was an obvious favorite for us. After all, our own Steve McKenzie created her walls, which we happen to think are pretty spectacular.

michelle-workman-and-walls-by-steve-mckenzie-2 — Photo by David Christensen

Truly though, her bedroom design is absolutely transportive and welcoming all at the same time. Her mixing of patterns, colors and textiles is sensational.

shaylyn-woodbery-2 — Photo by David Christensen

The holiday house kitchen by Shaylyn Woodbery was glamorous, but absolutely welcoming. Her touches of gold and brass throughout are perfect for the holidays and beyond.

shaylyn-woodbery-1 — Photo by David Christensen

And you know we can’t pass up a fabulous table setting!

Musso Design Group created a master bedroom space we immediately felt right at home in. Its streamlined and modern, but fits right in with this classic home.

Finally, the home’s office by Heather Roberts, for Ivy and Vine, was an absolute show stopper. That chair caught our attention first, but what kept us coming back for more of this space was her use of color. The same blue hue on the walls, mouldings – even the ceiling.

There’s just a sampling of what you can expect with this spectacular holiday home for Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, and as you can imagine, there’s so much more seasonal eye candy for you. We hope you enjoy the home as much as we did… Happy holidays!!

Oh, where will we be?!

Published on November 2, 2016November 2, 2016 by McKenzie Interior DesignLeave a comment

Tis’ the season, we suppose… And we’re only busier from here! See steve mckenzie’s allover Atlanta this month. We’re out and about sharing our fabulous home accessories, art, holiday decor and more – make plans to see us soon!

question — Sneak Peek at the Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Home for the Holiday Show House, opens Nov. 18th!

But, the first stop is one you can make right now to a recent post, where you can learn our top tips for creating and sending holiday cards, effortlessly. Be sure to enter the giveaway, which ends at midnight tonight!!

Next stop, Decatur, for the Decatur Art Walk:

Find Steve and his art at Trinity Mercantile onFriday, Nov. 4th from 5-9pm.
116 East Trinity Place / Decatur, GA

Next up is the Holiday Gift Show:

things to do in Atlanta — NMP Holiday Gift Show

Unique home accessories, gifts and more at the NMP Holiday Gift Show

Friday, Nov. 11th, 9-4pm and Saturday, Nov. 12th, 9-4pm

Finally, we’re headed to West Elm Ponce City Market:

Meet Steve and see his NEW art prints and stationery

Sunday, Nov. 13th, 12-5pm

675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE

Phew! We already need a cocktail :-)) We’re so excited to be out and about through the month of November and hope to see you soon, wherever we may be!

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