Atlanta native Amy Morris specializes in designing statement-making rooms that are both memorable and livable.
Designer & background: As a young girl growing up in Brookhaven, she and her dad would walk for fun through houses that were under construction. She also loved leafing through her mom's design magazines and knew she wanted to be a designer. After graduating from the Art Institute of Atlanta with a degree in interior design, Morris interned with the Gandy-Peace firm. She then went to work for Barbara Westbrook of Westbrook Interiors before opening up her own design firm.
The company: Atlanta-based Amy Morris Interiors opened in 2005.
Known for: Classic but not predictable design and emphasizing a fresh, sophisticated look.
As seen in: Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles; Atlanta Home; The Atlantan; Traditional Home; Renovation Style; Jezebel. Also the Southeastern Designer Showhouse in Atlanta through May 15. Morris designed the ladies lounge.
Big break: Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles' "Bath Contest Winner" in 2009. Her design was the magazine's cover photo.
Design pet peeves: Over-decorating.
Current design obsessions: Graphic florals, mixing finishes and oversized lighting.
New (or re-emerging) looks I like: French modern.
… and looks I am glad to see go: Trellis pattern.
Most unusual request: A room for the client's dogs.
Biggest design mistake I've made: When I renovated my small North Buckhead home about 10 years ago, I made the laundry room bigger. I wish now I had made the kitchen bigger.
… and homeowners make: Not bringing a designer in early enough in a project.
Every room needs: Good window treatments because they add so much to a room. And every home needs a space for a large, fabulous mirror.
Favorites:
- Atlanta-area home stores/showrooms: B.D Jeffries; R Hughes; Townhouse by Robert Brown; Jerry Pair; and Ainsworth-Noah.
- Places for unexpected (or great) finds: Junk shops, flea markets and antique stores.
- Instagram: Fox & Chatto and Dering Hall.
- Magazines: Veranda, Atlanta Homes & Lifetyles, Milleu and Metropolitan Home (she is excited it is back).
About me
My interior style: A mix of contemporary and traditional pieces, collected and well edited.
Household issues I am fussy about: Organization.
Favorite pieces/possessions in my house: A Biedermeir chest. Abstract art by Steven Seinberg; and photography by Masao Yamamoto.
Can't stop buying: Unique and funky chairs.
Most recent project: Nicole Miller store at Phipps Plaza.
Dream project: A house in the Hamptons.
What's new (or next): Lakehouses at Lake Burton and Lake Oconee.
Find Amy Morris Interiors at:
• Website: amymorrisinteriors.com
• Facebook: amymorrisinteriors
• Instagram: @amymorrisinteriors
Southeastern Designer Showhouse & Gardens
An array of top designers and their designs, including Amy Morris Interiors, are featured in the Southeastern showhouse, 3800 Northside Drive in Atlanta, now through May 15. Find tickets and information at southeasternshowhouse.com
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