Meet the Masterminds Part 1: Discover the Talented Designers Shaping Grace and Nell’s Spaces in Our Latest Collaboration 

If you’ve been following along on the Style at Home blog, you may have read about an exciting new collaboration between Nell Hill’s and Grace & Nell Homes that beautifully merges our signature style with fresh, innovative home design. Previously we’ve shared a little about Grace & Nell’s owner, Lauren Browne, and her lovely home, and kicked off the project about our Home Builder’s Association Artisan Homes Tour showhouse.  

This collaboration is more than just a partnership; it’s a celebration of creativity and crafts[wo]manship, featuring a beautiful home designed and built by Lauren Browne and the stunning furnishings within it curated by our talented Nell Hill’s Design Team. Today, we’re delighted to introduce you to these creative minds and give you an exclusive sneak peek at the enchanting rooms they’ve designed for this collaboration.  

Lauren shared her vision of how the home should flow together with a cohesive story that would be woven throughout with the furnishings and accessories. With the goal of giving a new build an old world, collective feel, she collaborated with each designer. Every space is a testament to our designers’ unique visions and the magic that happens when passion meets expertise. Join us as we explore the inspired rooms and meet the designers behind the scenes!

Liz Pohl  

Liz is the perfect mix of function and style. She leads with usability, but isn’t afraid to think outside the box to create fantastic and timeless designs. Her personal style is functional, classic, clean, and collected with a dash of dapper. She begins her process by finding design inspiration from furniture, art, or an item that her clients adore. With her background in kitchen and bathroom design, Liz particularly loves mixing textures and finishes – like wood and metal – to construct a fully incorporated and stunning look. 

Boys Bedroom 

Liz is tasked with decorating this second-floor bedroom, suitable for a boy from youth to college. Navy blue and neutral tones are prominent to provide a mellow and cozy room that is still a fun place to hang out. A navy blue spindle bed sets the tone and two small stools not only allow for extra seating for friends but provide openings in which to hide treasures. A large traditional style dresser washed in warm oak adds dimension to the design. The side chair and desk chair can be used individually or moved and paired for video games or study groups. Washable bedding is a practical choice for easy cleaning at home. Abstract art brings a punchy pop of color to this neutral and dichromatic space. 

Taylor Schwartz 

Taylor loves to design big and bold. She appreciates maximalism, and is always looking for a way to mix patterns and incorporate colors and textures into a space. Finding inspiration in Andre Leon Tailey’s quote, “Style will get you up to the steps into the revolving door; substance and knowledge will allow you to access new horizons,” she is constantly looking to learn and evolve her eclectic, whimsical, and conversational design style. As a designer, her biggest reward is being able to step back, look at a space she designed, and watch as others successfully interpret who the client is. Taylor loves designing interior spaces that are a true representation of the client, while also satisfying their home design needs and desires. 

Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen

Cohesive spaces that flow naturally into each other is a top priority in Taylor’s designs since the open-concept home features a stunning living room and adjoining kitchen and dining area where each room can be seen from the other. Lauren’s desire to have living spaces that appeal to the whole family, with a few extra decidedly feminine elements, was the foundation for this particular mix of colors, pattern, and texture.  

A soft palette of neutrals including dusty blues and light sage greens feels light and airy in this bright, open space, while structured plaids and linear florals keep the overall look grounded. Cotton and linen textiles mixed with wools and leathers, accented with tape trims and tassels create a perfectly layered look without feeling too heavy or overdone. Wood accent tables and details add an earthy touch to this elevated space, reminding its users that the spaces are, in fact, meant to be lived in.  

Reese Spangler 

Reese is a passionate designer who loves creating spaces that are both contemporary and timeless. She jumps at a chance to incorporate pops of color and pattern into her designs, using bold textiles, wallpaper, and accessories to add personality and flair. Her approach to design is both collaborative and detail-oriented, ensuring every design is tailored to the specific needs and preferences of her clients. 

Pre-teen Girl’s Bedroom

When introducing the project, Lauren envisioned this space to be a pre-teen girl’s bedroom. Reese aims to design something young and fun but not too juvenile. It is important that the future resident be able to grow with the design, or perhaps that the design can grow with her! A blue-green Juniper upholstered bed, dresser in Benjamin Moore Lehigh Green and green and white polka dot chair with a green velvet contrast welt inject color into the space. Green gingham and pink floral fabrics join together on a stool in the adjoining powder room and the Neisha Crossland fabric is used in a lumbar pillow with a pleated flange atop the bed, both adding extra feminine touches. Reese’s favorite focal point is the bedding with mix of tweed, pink, and embroidered elements. She says, “It’s the perfect blend of sophistication and youthfulness!”  

Basement Office 

In this space, Reese designs a space with a more masculine feel, highlighting darker textiles paired with plaids, that flows into the rest of the lower-level living areas. She was drawn to greens and browns when selecting fabrics and incorporates a show-stopping moody floral with pops of deep purples and reds, a small feminine nod. Reese incorporates eclectic art to finish off the space including a brass bear head, which has become a favorite at the shop.    

As we conclude Part 1 of our exciting introduction to the Nell Hill’s Design Team and their gorgeous spaces, we hope you’re as inspired as we are by the creativity and expertise our designers have poured into each space.  

Stay tuned for more detailed looks at these beautifully crafted spaces. We invite you to visit us and experience firsthand the artistry and passion that define this collaboration. Whether you’re looking for design inspiration or seeking to transform your own home, our team is here to help you every step of the way. And now is the perfect time to stop by, as our 20% Off Upholstery Sale is running now through July 15. Book an appointment with a Nell Hill’s designer today to secure your spot or stop by to browse and learn more any time. And until next time – happy decorating!