Anna Applegate Interiors
photos by Anna Routh Barzin
Anna Applegate is a Raleigh-based interior designer known for creating layered, livable spaces that blend beauty and function. With a signature style that artfully combines color, pattern, vintage finds, and thoughtfully curated pieces. Anna brings warmth and personality to every project.
Working with clients across North Carolina and beyond, Anna specializes in new construction, renovations, and whole-room decorating projects. Whether it’s a ground-up build or a single-room refresh, Anna approaches each space with creativity, care, and a deep understanding of how thoughtful design can enhance everyday life.
In addition to the joy she finds in creating well-designed spaces, Anna especially values the relationships she builds with her clients—and loves seeing them truly enjoy the homes they've created together.
Anna lives in Raleigh with her husband, Ryan, their three boys, and their English bulldog, Slim. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, beachcombing for seashells, hunting for antiques, and cheering on her boys at the soccer field.
In Her Words...read on to get to know Anna!
How did you get started in Interior Design? What is your background?
I grew up in Raleigh, N.C. and have always been drawn to a creative life. My love of writing led me to pursue a degree in Journalism at UNC-Chapel Hill, but quickly after graduation I transitioned to the interior design world, which has always piqued my interest. I learned the trade by working with other designers and for a furniture manufacturer and architecture firm, before starting Anna Applegate Interiors in 2009. My husband and I have three boys, and my business has grown steadily as they have, and I feel so fortunate to have two jobs that I love - interior designer and Mom to my boys.
What inspires you today? Who are your design "crushes" or favorite instagram accounts for inspiration?
Travel is the ultimate inspiration for me, whether it’s across the pond or on the shores of a North Carolina beach; just stepping outside of my day-to-day tends to open my eyes in new and unexpected ways. I’m also inspired every time I step into an antique store, estate sale or flea market; sourcing the “one of a kind” always gets my creative juices flowing.
On Instagram, fellow North Carolina designer Barrie Benson (@barriebenson) has been my design crush ever since she was on the cover of Domino in 2008- her style and taste are impeccable and I could live in any and all of the spaces she’s designed.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
Colorful, comfortable, layered and timeless.
What do you love most about including original art in your designs?
The instant personality that it brings to a space. Original art is like jewelry to an outfit; it’s necessary to have it for a polished, finished look.
Dream Project?
Renovating a very old home and any project at the beach!
Favorite thing about living in the south?
For the most part, people in the South value art and antiques and want to incorporate them into their homes. There’s a deep connection here between the past and the present, which usually finds its way into a home’s aesthetic, making it more interesting. People in the South also love to entertain, and I LOVE helping my clients get their homes ready for a party!
Current design trend that you think should take an early retirement?
The constant tearing down of old houses in order to build massive new ones, or multiple tiny ones on a small lot. Our towns and cities are losing so much charm and character with the razing of perfectly good (often beautiful!) old homes, and it’s hard to watch. New and bigger are not always better.
What is your favorite room in your own home?
My foyer; I splurged on a House of Harris wallpaper (Bamboo Garden in Parchment) that makes me so happy every time I look at it. It offers so much visual interest right when you come in the front door. It’s paired with an old rug and various vintage items that I’ve collected over the years, each with its own story. My foyer is colorful and collected, which feels like the perfect intro into our home.
What are your three "must haves" in order to create an inviting space?
Original art, interesting (and adequate) lighting and something old.
What are some design upgrades you recommend to clients that won't break the bank?
Fabric lampshades and vintage frames for original art (even something your child has made!)
How to Contact Anna:
Email: anna@annaapplegateinteriors.com
Website: www.annaapplegateinteriors.com
Instagram: @annaapplegateinteriors
Phone: 919.614.2846
