What we love most about the Kelley Nan blog – do we really have to pick just one!? – is her southern style. But we also love her tablescapes. They’re gorgeous, and we love her creativity. Here’s a little more about Kelley’s journey.
1. What inspired you to become a designer? What has your journey been like?
Ever since I was a little girl, I have always loved making my spaces “pretty.” I was never an artist or musician, so rearranging my room and changing up my color schemes was my form of artistic expression. Even when I was working in college, I would take my earnings and put them toward new bedding and accessories on a regular basis. I have always been resourceful and put what I already had to use.
When we built our home in early 2015, I finally had the blank canvas I had always wanted. As I worked on rooms, I started documenting our progress via Instagram. I had no idea that strangers would be interested in my home and hearing what I had to say…but they were. I decided to take my little blog journal and transform it into a place where I style, host, and design, in hopes that I could inspire others to tap into their creativity, regardless of budget and personal style, and to make their homes a place they truly love. After a year, my Instagram account has grown to over 90,000 and my blog is gaining traction. I wouldn’t trade the connections I have made on this journey for anything.
2. How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I grew up in the south and my grandmother was a true lady; her class shone through how she decorated and maintained her home, and it was a huge influence on what I always aspired to have. I appreciate and admire many styles, but the one I am most drawn to is a bit transitional. I like a lot of classic tradition with a little modern flare. I mix a lot of different styles in our home, but I think bringing together an eclectic mix makes for a more collected look.
3. What was your favorite project(s)? Why?
This is a tough one. Because we haven’t been in our home that long, we still have rooms that haven’t been finished. We still have rooms we haven’t touched! So, I kind of look at our home as one big ongoing project. I am always working on it and making plans, moving from room to room. Some of my favorite projects are the themed tablescapes I create. You can find some of those HERE. I also just finished my white guest retreat, so I am still loving the clean, bright transition. You can see that reveal HERE.
4. What’s your favorite trend right now?
Like many decor enthusiasts, I am all about white kitchens, aged brass, and tufted everything. As I mentioned before, because I always try to build on what I already have, I try to keep my larger pieces more neutral and classic, and keep the trends to accessories and art. My neutral base has lended itself well through my ever-changing style (and mind). Right now in my home, I am loving mixed metals. I have a gallery wall of silver and gold sunburst mirrors – will that stay forever? No. But this is one easy-to-update trend that feels fresh and fun. You can check out the gallery wall in my formal living room HERE.
