South Pasadena interior designer Amy Peltier is no stranger to the design scene, having founded her eponymous firm in 2008. Since then, Peltier has quickly become one of the most well-known interior design studios in the area with her sought-after style: a mix of east coast prep and California cool, while maintaining a comfortable and family-focused vibe.
How did you get started in interior design?
I’ve always wanted to become a designer. When I was a little girl, my mother had a decorator and I was allowed to accompany them to the Michigan Design Center for their meetings and even pick out fabrics and wallpapers to decorate my own room. I’ll never forget how much I loved flipping through fabrics and wallpaper wings while we were there. Later in life I specifically chose Michigan State University to get my design degree because they had one of the best accredited programs in the country at that time. And I guess the rest is history!
You’ve designed projects on both sides of the coast; how has the Pasadena area influenced your design decisions?
Pasadena is very traditional and classic, very much like the Midwest that I grew up in. So, it was a nice compliment to my design preference. I love classic blues and traditional elements mixed in with an updated and modern approach, and we’ve found that many of the people living in Pasadena gravitate towards that design style.
What are some quick and/or easy ways to spruce up your space?
I think the first place to start is to get and stay organized (you can do this for free), but if your home has things that don’t fit or is bursting from the seams, then it will be hard to make any design progress without this first step. If you’re the type who stays very tidy and organized, think about changing out rugs and pillows for a color refresh, or making a checklist for each room that would really take it to the next level. For example, you might have furniture in your entryway, but does it need art and accessories to really finish the space off? None of these things take a lot of money to execute and they can be the most enjoyable part of the design journey.
What is a common mistake you’ve seen homeowners make when trying to remodel their home and how can they avoid it?
Preparation is key! Many homeowners do not properly plan and decide on all design details before getting contractor bids or starting construction. I cannot tell you the stress that ensues when things are not properly planned, and you can only imagine the mistakes that can arise if you’re having to make last-minute or on-the-fly decisions. Hiring a designer to help with the hundreds of decisions will save you an infinite amount of time, stress, and yes, money.
In addition to offering interior design services, you’ve also launched Peltier Home (available in your studio and via online), a curated selection of furniture, accessories, and unique gifts. What are three of your favorite home items that should be on everyone’s holiday wish list?
I love collecting art and adding a great piece to my home every year. Ask for it on your holiday wish list or even a birthday and it will hold so many memories for years to come.
Pillows and throws! I change these out at least twice a year because my palette for summer is much lighter and brighter, and my throws and colors get a little cozier and heavier in the winter. You can also add candles to that list—adding a holiday scent to your home is such a great feeling.
Another great item might be a designer consultation if you have lots of questions. You can tap into a designer’s expertise to get a great game plan together in just three hours. Be sure to have a list of questions and items to discuss before the consult. Imagine if you were able to come up with a paint palette, an accessory plane, and rearrange your furniture in a room that’s been troubling you. That would make an enormous difference in your day-to-day life.
For more information on Peltier’s services, visit peltierinteriors.com.
Facebook Comments