This week we’re joined by a return guest, Nashville-based designer Jonathan Savage of Savage Interior Design. Jonathan takes us on a journey through his design philosophy and experiences, as showcased in his beautiful newest book “The Savage Style.”
He also talks more about his approaching projects focusing on both function and aesthetics, his love for shopping and favorite places, and how he balances traditional and modern elements in his designs. Jonathan also shares some great tips on styling consoles, editing spaces, and creating impactful black-and-white interiors.
AVAILABLE NOW: Order your copy of “The Savage Style” here.
What You’ll Hear This Episode:
- Jonathan’s background and how his style has evolved since our last conversation in 2017.
- Insights into the process of creating his first book, “The Savage Style” and the inspiration behind that gorgeous book jacket!
- Jonathan’s approach to shopping for design elements and his favorite places to find unique pieces.
- More about the dance of function and aesthetics when designing.
- The importance of contrast and editing in creating impactful interiors.
- Jonathan’s thoughts on using black and white as a foundation in his designs.
- A tour through Jonathan’s homes in Nashville and Palm Beach.
- Tips on arranging furniture for optimal flow and comfort in living spaces.
- Jonathan’s advice for styling consoles and other surfaces in a home.
Decorating Dilemma:
Hello!
I always enjoy listening to your podcast, and have loved the fabulous guests you’ve had on the show with you. Thank you for sharing so many design inspiration, tips, and tricks with the world!!
My design dilemma is my two-story foyer – ugh. The wall with the front door is so huge and empty (as are the tall side walls, too). And obviously what I do in the entry would extend to the upstairs hallway (and down the open basement stairwell, too). What should I do??!!
I don’t have the budget to wallpaper the entire thing, but I’ve wondered about running trim around at the first floor level and wallpapering it below? Or below that same trim doing some sort of vertical paneling?? Or something else?! What should I do above the trim? And, what color?! I do love my vintage entry rug, so I need to work around that. I also need to unify the trim around the door openings – that around the front door is diKerent from that around the living and dining room entries…and then the closet has none!! I should also mention I’m ready to refresh my living and dining rooms that open oK the entry, so don’t let the colors in those rooms boss you around :).
Anyway, if you have some genius designer on the show who knows what to do with a two- story entry, I’d be forever grateful!!!!
Thank you,
Katie
Hi Kate and thank you for writing!
So first, Jonathan recommends installing exaggerated wainscoting around the lower half of the walls, which would help bring the large space down to a more human scale.
Above the wainscoting, Jonathan proposes either wallpapering or creating a gallery wall to add interest. To ensure consistency throughout the space, he advises unifying all moldings and trim.
Jonathan also suggests updating the stair carpet to complement the vintage entry rug, tying the two elements together.
For an added touch of impact, he recommends painting the inside of the front door. Hope this helps, and be sure to give us an update!
– How to Decorate
Also Mentioned in This Episode
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Happy Decorating!
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