Maureen Stevens has her own self-named design blog where she shares her multi-faceted design ideas and projects with her readers. Maureen is passionate about curating new design ideas and visually pleasing vignettes, from choosing colour palettes to arranging tablescapes. She also believes that subtle changes can have an immense impact on your lifestyle. She has also been featured on HGTV.com, Make it Over magazine and the Austin-American statesman. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Maureen Stevens.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I definitely lean towards the classic but definitely not boring nor sterile. It's neo-traditional veering towards more "new" one time & more "traditional" at other times. It's weaving those two together in a space that's layered & with character.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
With residential design, it's more about collaboration with the client. I ask about their favorite destinations, magazines, what their lifestyle is. In short, I'm inspired by them & who they are. Their inspiration leads me to more inspiration that coalesce to create a space that's cohesive and well-edited.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
My friend James Leasure, I worked with him for some interior photos. He's an entrepreneur in software business and founder of Modern Homes Tours. He also dabbles in fine art photography and is so amazing at it and a philanthropist. Despite all his accolades and achievements, he is a genuine, down to earth person who truly wants to help other people.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I peruse design magazines and of course the web relentlessly but I think inspiration comes when you don't look for it. Often, it's when I'm not doing anything design-related that an inspiration comes to me, whether it's drinking a cafe au lait at a coffee shop nearby, flea market shopping or people-watching. Inspiration is truly everywhere.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
I'm really still a novice as far as being in this career. Just like anything else, having the thirst for knowledge and knowing that learning is a continuous process is important. Seek the advice of people you admire, do not get intimidated. Also to follow your gut feeling. Starting out, I thought I'll accept every project that came my way. Some clients and some projects are not a good fit and it's ok to say no.
