Organic, textured, minimal, functional. Just a few words Maggie Smith uses to describe her signature interior design style. From living in Los Angeles to now in Kirkland, Maggie’s hope is “to bring a little bit of my California casual style to the Pacific Northwest.” Kirkland Lifestyle had the opportunity to catch up with Maggie to learn more about her interior design journey.
What first sparked your passion for interior design?
I grew up with two very creative and resourceful parents. My dad built several of the homes that we grew up in on the East Coast, and my mom had reign over the interiors. I have no doubt that my appreciation for craftsmanship and design started with them. When I moved out to Los Angeles in my early twenties, I had to get very creative with arranging and designing my tiny apartment, and that’s when I really started to enjoy finding chic and tasteful ways to make the most of a small space.
How do you balance your personal design instincts with a client’s preferences?
All of my projects have been a great balance of input from my clients as well as my own. It’s their space and I want it to feel like a reflection of them. I love when clients push me to use more color than I may normally lean towards, or to incorporate elements into designs that will accommodate their children, or even their little furry friends. Home has become such a sanctuary for people over the last few years and it’s important that it’s not only beautiful but functional for clients and their families.
What are the biggest interior design trends you’re excited about right now?
Vintage! I see a lot of people incorporating vintage pieces into their projects and I feel like it will never go out of style. I also love the concept of re-using pieces from the past. It’s not only environmentally friendly to do so, but often those pieces are well-made and hold their value over time.
Any interior design tips?
Don’t underestimate how impactful and how much decorative lighting can change a space. This is another place where finding one-of-a-kind vintage light fixtures or vintage inspired light fixtures can really add personality to a space.
For more info, visit maggiesmithdesign.com