Let’s start from the beginning! Tell us a little about the journey that led you to where you are now.

I have been a creative person for as long as I can remember. I wore lime green overalls to school with my favorite drawing pens and pencils in my front pocket. When I got sober from drugs and alcohol at the age of 22, I picked up a camera for the first time. I lived in Haiti after I went to rehab and that experience is so special to me. Haiti is where I found my passion for storytelling. I was an interior photographer working for designers all over the world, but I knew I wanted to settle down and begin designing myself!

I have been working in full time interior design for six years now. I started from my home and then moved into a small office in the downtown area of Greenville. Now our beautiful showroom is where we get to share our custom furniture line, The Max Collection, with the community. It was inspired by my grandfather who was a mid-century furniture designer and sourced antiques from around the world. We work upstairs with the showroom downstairs. I would not be here if it were not for all of the people who have worked with me along the way. I am so grateful for where I am and for the clients who have trusted us with their sacred spaces.

Your role as an interior designer evolved from your educational background in photography and painting. What can you share about the intersection of fine art and interiors?

Studying composition has helped me so much in my career. Knowing the final shot of projects helps me understand exactly how I want the space to look at the finish line!

How would you describe your design ethos?

I use my life experience and my craft to ensure that the homes we design are comforting and healing spaces where our clients can live and grow. We want to create sanctuaries where our clients can leave the anxiety of the world to find rest and peace.

You published Sacred Spaces, a gorgeous photography collection featuring home interiors and profiles of the people who have transformed these spaces, in 2023. What can you share about the inspiration behind the book and how have the stories influenced your design ethos?

First of all, thank you! Sacred Spaces was born in my heart when I was in rehab 13 years ago. For the first time in a long time, it was there that I had a place that felt safe and comforting. Little did I know that twelve years later, I would create a book centered around that same idea. I knew I wanted to incorporate stories of people with all different backgrounds and life experiences and how their homes have become a safe haven for them through all of their trials, healing, and victories. We traveled all over the world photographing the most amazing and inspiring people who truly make Sacred Spaces what it is. Through their stories of brokenness, hurt, and healing, Sacred Spaces truly invites readers to dream of the home that will help set them free.

Tell us a bit about how you find inspiration. What factors have played roles in the development of your design style and evolving brand aesthetic?

Once I traveled to Europe and Africa, my design eye shifted. I was introduced to charming details and a level of craftsmanship that I had never seen before, and that is what I try to base my designs off of today. I still tear out magazine pages and create folders for those ‘one day clients’. I am always learning and trying to stretch my eye. That yearning for knowledge in this industry is my biggest inspiration.

Between design meetings, project installs, photoshoots, maintaining a showroom, and everything in between, you juggle so much! Tell us what a typical day-in-the-life looks like for you.

I wake up around 6:30 am and get my son up and spend time with him, eating breakfast and getting him ready for school. I try to work out in the mornings if my schedule allows, but I don’t put too much pressure on myself. I will show up to the office / showroom around 8:30 – 9:00 am to have my double shot of espresso. On Monday mornings, we have our team meeting to go through all of our clients and their needs for that week. Our days look different each week, whether it’s a job site meeting to review elevations for lighting, or zoom calls with our long distance clients. We might be out of the office all day at meetings, in the office all day scheduling showroom appointments, or out and about sourcing for our clients. Each day is different! I try to leave around 5:00 pm, and that’s when as a family we will go on walks or bike rides. We also love to walk over to my parent’s house, which is only a block away. I’m typically in bed by 9:00 pm and then start it all over again the next day!

How do you find balance within it all?

I truly try to clock out, decompress, and spend time with my family. My son is my muse and being with him and his joyful spirit recharges me. My faith is really important to me, so I make sure that I carve out time to teach a Bible study every Wednesday night for young college women. If I had to lay down my career one day, I know I would feel fulfilled pouring into the next generation in this way.

What’s the best advice you’ve received, either personally or professionally?

My past does not define me, but it has refined me to be who I am today. And, God loved me just as much when I was failing as He does when I am succeeding.

What is a design-related trend or element you’re loving right now? And not so much?

I am loving that traditional spaces, which are more closed off, are making a comeback. Each room can have such a sweet and intimate personality, while still complimenting the design of the house as a whole. I am seeing the retro 1950s bathrooms making their way back on the scene, and while it’s very playful, it’s just not my style.

What’s next for you? How do you hope to see the impact of your work take form?

I have no idea, and I am completely okay with that. I am so blessed to be where I am today. I can’t believe where my life has led me, and I truly feel so grateful for it all. I hope people can take away from my work, that you are never too far gone. God has a plan for you and He never wants you to give up. We all have a plan and purpose for our lives!

Favorite place to visit to spark inspiration?

French countryside

Favorite space in your home?

My sunroom!

Current go-to interior paint color?

Manchester Tan by Benjamin Moore

One product that’s always in your bag?

Measuring tape

Currently watching?

Dancing with the Stars!