If you fuse a penchant for detail, exquisite taste, the thrill of change, oh, and a biology degree, you’ll find yourself at Stephanie Gamble Interiors. With a sophisticated and casual style, Stephanie expertly harnesses her years of experience to create a beautiful space in which you can feel inspired. Stacy Zarin Goldberg Photography deftly captures the finer details of this incredible home.

We’d love to hear a bit about your journey from biology research and development to interior design? What stirred you to make such a bold career change?

Although I really enjoyed research it did not allow me to use the creative side of my brain, which I was craving. Sadly, I lost my mother when I was 27 years old, and other than the deep sadness I felt it was also a huge lesson. Yes, life really is too short and you should not spend one second unhappy because you don’t get a do-over. Once I made the decision to be happy, I wrote a business plan (with a 6 month old in tow), did a lot of research and opened a small home furnishing showroom and started accepting small scale design projects. That was 19 years ago!!

I’ve noticed that your website is flush with detailed information on your work process and procedures. Do you have any other holdover skills from your previous career that show up in your design work?

Oh yes, scientific research is all about the process and having it well documented. It has helped me immensely in making sure all my clients receive an amazing experience from beginning to end. It’s also how I learned CAD. I would use it to create all the molecular models for the research team.

I am so intrigued by the chandelier in this dining room, please tell us about this piece and it’s impact on the space.

This chandelier for me defines everything about this home, it is sophisticated yet casual. It ties in all the elements of the home with its natural wood beading and aged gold detailing, both of which can be found in other elements throughout the home.

What has been a source of inspiration for you over this past year?

I’m the kind of person that loves and welcomes change. It allows me to see things in a new perspective and opens my mind to different options and possibilities. This past year surely did that! The ferris wheel of life slowed down and I was able to jump off the ride and find inspiration in the everyday. Such as the green of my daughter’s eyes (I’m in the process of designing a green kitchen now), my cat’s fluffy white and gray meticulously kept fur, the intense beauty of historic architecture found in my home and neighborhood, just to name a few.

What is your go-to styling tip that will always elevate a room’s look?

Good quality lighting will do it every time! Whether it be an amazing chandelier or a chic lamp, you can never go wrong if you invest in great lighting.

The beautiful gold hardware and earthy wood tones balance wonderfully to create a comfortable yet high-end feeling. Can you share some other elements that contributed to this aesthetic?

I really love how ALL the fireplaces in the home turned out, however, the fireplace in the great room is a stand-out for me. The combination of marble in the surround and custom designed mantel, scaled perfectly in this space, helps to anchor the large built-ins on either side.

If you were to describe your design style as a cocktail, what would it be?

I love this question. I would have to say that my style would be a Vodka Gimlet. Classic, simple, sophisticated AND refreshing!

You’ve had a thriving business for nearly twenty years, and your work has been featured in many prestigious publications. What advice would you share with a designer who wants to go the distance?

Identify who you are, who you want to serve and where you want to go. Once you know those three things you can set a roadmap for your career. Understanding that you can’t be all things to everyone is crucial to developing your own point of view and honing in your skill set. Also, never ever skimp on photography! Hire the best you can afford.

Is there a stand-out moment or piece in this home that you are especially elated with?

Everything about the Primary Bedroom makes me super happy. The construction detailing in the ceiling along with the exquisitely appointed bedding make it a place I would love to wake up in. If I had to pick one piece in the space it would be the upholstered canopy bed, it fits the space perfectly!

You offer your clients a studio space (complete with finished kitchen!) to visit when consulting with you. How do you feel this service enhances their experience & design outcome?

We are all effected by our environment and I want my clients to feel at home during their time with me. When I was designing the space it was important for me to include various elements that help me educate my clients along with making them feel comfortable. For example, clients may not know the difference between an inset cabinet and full overlay. I have examples of both here for them to see. I also have several pieces of upholstery for them to sit on so I can figure out what defines comfortable for them. Ultimately, it helps them make informed choices about the items they will be living with along with providing a beautiful space where they can feel inspired.

What does a well-lived home mean to you?

A well-lived home is a place of pure comfort where you can relax, be yourself and take in all of your surroundings. From the views outdoors to having objects around you that make you smile and feel connected to your life and the people who inspire you.

Love what you see? Take a peek at the talent behind the story… Interior Design: Stephanie Gamble Interiors · Photography: Stacy Zarin Goldberg Photography · Builder: Danleigh Homes