In my welcome post, I mentioned my mission for HAVEN is to both inspire and recognize. As an Editor and an advocate for creatives in my past work, I’ve learned just how important that second aspect (recognition) really is. Many business owners, entrepreneurs, boss ladies (and gents) and talents I’ve worked with are some of the most soul-lit-on-fire kind of people I’ve met. They eat, breath and sleep their passion. They balance biz life and family life. They serve others and go the extra mile. They are the faces behind so much of the inspiration we consume everyday—and they kick ass at what they do. Shining a spotlight on some of those creatives is what I aspire to do with a small part of this platform. So, without further ado, we’re kicking off the Haven Maven series. A fun and flirty name for some seriously incredible creatives, starting with Lindsey Brooke, the amazing designer behind yesterday’s gorgeous Modern Beach Retreat tour and Modern Ranch Bathroom. She has some great advice to share today (along with beautiful photography by Amy Bartlam) and I’m loving her number one tip for crafting a beautiful home—it’s SO true. Here we go!
What propelled your passion for design and how did LBD come to life?
I was always into something creative since high school, whether it was costume design, fashion design, art or photography. But I never thought of interior design until I was a stay at home mom and needed creativity back in my life. At the time I was helping my mom with a huge remodel on a new house, and I was helping my best friend furnish her new 4k square foot house all for fun. In a way interior design kind of found me in a time in my life I really needed something to call my own. So I ran with it, learned everything I could about it, and started LBD a year later. I am now going into my 3rd year and still hustling to grow it into its fullest potential.
How would you describe your design style?
California Casual
What do you love most about your job?
Being able to do something that I am passionate about. I have always been creative and knew one day I wanted to be in a creative field but wasn’t sure how that was going to come to life. To be able to do what I LOVE, and challenge myself as a business owner is incredible to me.
Walk us through a quick view of your typical day in the life.
Well, each day is so different, it all starts out with being with my kids in the morning and getting them off to school, then I try to work out to get some me time in. If I need to design then I am back in my office at my computer, pulling samples from our library, maybe ordering product or sending project update emails. Usually 2-3 times a week I am on site visits, shopping, doing returns, and organizing our warehouse. I then end my night putting my kids to bed and spending time with my husband or working late at my desk. There is a lot of hustle right now as I wear MANY hats.
What’s your favorite room in your own home and why?
I love my living room. We have another living room/playroom for the kids, so this space is really for myself and my husband. It has windows all around so the natural light is unreal, we made it very neutral and casual and such a warm space to relax in. Its small but very cozy.
What is your number one tip for crafting a beautiful home?
Remember that it is a marathon not a sprint. Taking the time to really think of the space as a whole and have a plan for the overall space. I think it takes time to curate a space that is unique to you and your personality. I love adding personal touches and starting with a neutral color platte and layering color and texture.
What has been your career highlight so far?
Oh man, I think being able to now take the pressure off my husband as the sole income provider (he owns his own business too). I see him enjoying life a little more and not being so stressed and thats the best feeling.
What’s was the best business advice you’ve ever received?
I have received so much advice from some great fellow designers and business people. So here are my top three:
- “KNOW YOUR WORTH AND CHARGE FOR IT”. I capitalize this one because its super important.
- “Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.”
- “Don’t be afraid to pivot if something isn’t working.”
Favorite paint color of the moment:
Pigeon by Farrow and Ball
Instagram account(s) you’re obsessed with:
Busy Phillips, The Home Edit, The Lifestyled Company
Favorite podcast or inspiring book:
‘Studio’ by Sally Coulthard
Top three shops for home decor:
Juxaposition, Danielle Oakey Shop, LuLu and Georgia
App(s) you can’t live without:
IVY, Planoly and DoorDash
Photography: Amy Bartlam
You can get to know Lindsey a bit more by connecting with her—find all of her info on The List!
Want to be a Haven Maven or know someone who we should feature?
The Haven Workshop is an intimate, community-driven learning experience for interior designers who are looking to up-level their business and build a successful brand.
