Anne Pearson Design
photos by Dustin Peck
Anne Pearson Design is a boutique firm located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Anne lives with her husband Joel, two children, Thomas (8) and Mary Collins (5), and cat, Maddy. Growing up in the South has been a big influence on Anne's overall taste. She loves traditional interiors, but wants them to feel fresh and updated. Anne also loves a mix of old and new, as well as incorporating found treasures from antique stores or even a thrift store or flea market. Her goal is to create a space that feels collected and timeless while reflecting the client’s personality.
In Her Words...read on to get to know Anne!
How did you get started in Interior Design? What is your background?
I decided to go back to school after a few years in fashion merchandising in Atlanta. Several friends were working with prominent designers, and I loved visiting Scott's Antique Market- all of which definitely influenced my decision to move back to Charlotte and gain my second degree in Interior Design from Queens University.
What inspires you today? Who are your design "crushes" or favorite instagram accounts for inspiration?
I am always inspired by artwork, new fabrics and wallpapers, as well as so many talented interior designers, textile designers, and artists. My favorite follows on Instagram would be Mark D. Sikes, Cece Barfield and Ashley Whittaker. Everything they touch is perfection!!
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I am definitely a Traditionalist at heart. One of my best friends growing up had the most beautiful home filled with antiques and beauty all around. It was a fun place to be - there were always lots of people around and amazingly nothing was ever broken! This concept that homes can be beautiful and also lived in definitely inspires me in my designs. I never want a room I design to be too stuffy, where you feel like you can’t sit down. My goal is for homes to be beautiful and inviting at the same time.
What do you love most about including original art in your designs?
Art is so subjective, and I love for my clients to buy what they love! We always find a place for artwork, it gives a room personality. Hanging art is also a great way to bring a collected feeling to a room.
Dream Project?
A dream project would be to work on a beach or mountain cottage that is a secondary residence. A second home is such a fun place to design because they don’t have to be as "serious." As a designer, a second home may allow for more risks as it is not intended for full-time living, rather more typically inspired by entertaining.
Favorite thing about living in the south?
I love that the south has so many beautiful homes and antiques. I am always inspired by the craftsmanship of older homes and love that so many are trying to preserve this sense of history.
What is your favorite room in your own home?
We recently moved so nothing is fully done, but I would have to say my kitchen, in which we painted the cabinets green. There is so much natural light in the space and the green cabinets are just the right amount of color!! It is a very happy space.
What are your three "must haves" in order to create an inviting space?
- Eye catching fabrics, wallpaper, or trim
- Something older or unique to give the room patina
- Accessories likes lamps and artwork to add the perfect finishing touch
What are some design upgrades you recommend to clients that won't break the bank?
Pillows in a more expensive/unique fabric are a great way to bring personality to a space without being too pricey. Also, painting your cabinets a beautiful color is always a good idea. I know people are scared they will tire of it, but I have never regretted painting cabinets a beautiful color. In many projects a cabinet color is no up-charge, so definitely worth it to take the risk!
