8 Quick Tips

Shea graduated from Auburn University in 1997 with a degree in Interior Design. Realizing she enjoyed the process of designing kitchens and baths, she quickly began her career as a NKBA designer for firms in both Atlanta and Birmingham. Her success was fueled by the love of her work and in 2002 she became Southern Accents and Southern Living Magazine’s Idea House manager. It is through this exceptional opportunity that Shea experienced the intricacies of interior design through building and furnishing the Idea Houses. Excited about the knowledge she had gained, Shea began her own firm, Shea Bryars Design, in 2014. Her contact info and portfolio can be found on her website- sheabryarsdesign.com.

1 // One of the best ways to make a space feel like it “belongs”, is to incorporate something that is sentimental to them. In this case, the homeowner owned old cypress hardwood from the home she grew up in, in which we used on the ceiling and in a supporting beam. This tells a great story and looks beautiful and warm.

2 // It’s always fun to create a space just for the kiddos.

3 // I love a neutral space, but sometimes color can be everything! Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and mix colors that are vibrant and particularly if they are across the color wheel from each other... this creates a lot of impact.

4 // Mixing some contemporary cabinets and tile with traditional wood, marble and an antique rug, really sets this bathroom apart. Don’t be afraid to mix up genres.

5 // When designing for my younger, teen and tween clientele, use of fabric is integral in the “wow factor”. But it doesn’t have to break the bank. King Cotton provided this amazing, colorful fabric that suits this young girls room to the tee!

6 // When building a new home, or remodeling an outdated home, it is important to add touches of old. Whether its antiques or old wood. This helps give a house personality and makes it feel like a custom space.

7 // Lighting and finishes make all the difference in a space. Warm woods and creamy cabinets create a more traditional space.

8 // When decorating bookshelves, I prefer to lean towards the minimal artistic side, especially in a space where many people may be gathering. It minimizes clutter and feels fresh.