At AGI, we use the phrase “soulful style” because we believe your home should be a reflection of your very being. We create spaces to pay tribute to the life you’ve created and embody what is most important to you - the antique chest passed down by generations, the family portraits and the treasures collected from a multitude of trips. It’s these little details that make a design uniquely YOU. Then, there are the other details that serve to enhance a room’s overall look. Custom fabrics, curated art and intentionally-placed accessories. The details that pull it all together and bring a design to life…

Finding the right details can be one of the hardest, but one of the most rewarding, parts of the design process. Here are a few details I try to incorporate into each one of my projects.

Family Heirlooms & Timeless Treasures

One of my favorite ways to incorporate soul into a space is by incorporating family heirlooms and timeless treasures. This could be anything from an antique chair to a vintage vase. Not only will these pieces add character to your home, but they'll also tell a story. Every time you look at them, you'll be reminded of the people and moments that you cherish.

If you’re working on a design project, it works well to curate some of your most cherished possessions, and mix them in with fresh elements. The old vs new mix provides interest and detail that will really make your home feel like a personal sanctuary.

Framed wall decor designed by Alison Giese Interiors — photo: Robert Radifera

Custom Everything

When able, choose custom. This could mean anything from having a piece of furniture custom-made to choosing unique, one-of-a-kind artwork for your walls. When you put your personal stamp on a space, it becomes so much more than just a room in your house. It becomes an extension of who you are.

So don't be afraid to really make a space your own. Choose materials, textures and colors that reflect your unique style. And most importantly, have fun with it!

Custom playroom designed by Alison Giese Interiors — photo: Robert Radifera

Intentionally-Placed Accessories

When it comes to interior design, styling is the final, finishing layer. Styling is the art of placing smaller items in a deliberate way to complete the mood, or atmosphere of a space. From a vase of fresh flowers on a coffee table to a stack of books on a shelf, not only do these items add visual interest, but they also help to create a sense of balance and harmony in a space. So, take your time when considering which accessories you'll use. Try to collect meaningful objects over time, and remember, every detail should serve a visual purpose.

styled console by Alison Giese Interiors — photo: Angela Newton Roy

By paying attention to the details and incorporating personal touches, you can create a space that feels like a true reflection of who you are. So go out there and make your mark on the world…one room at a time!

Need a one-on-one with Alison? Schedule a Virtual Consultation via The Expert! Get her pro tips on everything from floor plans to finish selections. October availabilities are up now!