Sustainability & Style With Interior Designer Laura Hodges

Rip & Tan: When did you first realize your passion for interior design?

Laura Hodges: I have always loved interior design, even as a child, but my passion really developed from studying design and architecture in college.

Rip & Tan: How did growing up in England influence your design eye and aesthetic?

Laura Hodges: As a child, I remember visiting my grandparents’ house, which was a four-story Victorian row home with high ceilings and beautiful architectural details.

Spending so much time in their home really developed my appreciation for creating a warm and welcoming environment with well-made furniture and unique pieces that tell a story.

Rip & Tan: What was the initial vision for this home? How does it reflect the way your clients like to live? 

Laura Hodges: The vision for this home was to create a modern, welcoming, and light-filled environment that would essentially serve as a canvas for the homeowner’s growing collection of original artwork.

Rip & Tan: What are some of your favorite elements of this space? Any noteworthy furniture and decorative sources that you care to share?

Laura Hodges: My favorite elements would have to be the custom dining table and side table that I designed for this client. These two pieces were a labor of love to figure out, in terms of the structure, finish, and design for each, but they were well worth it because they’re so beautiful and unique.

Rip & Tan: How would you describe your interior design philosophy?

Laura Hodges: My design philosophy focuses on creating spaces that are truly reflective of our client’s taste and style, with special pieces that speak to their experiences.

On the whole, we make sure that our projects are warm, welcoming, and unique to each of our clients.

Rip & Tan: What role does sustainability play in your design process? From sourcing to mindful recycling, how we can all be more sustainable when it comes to designing our homes?

Laura Hodges: Sustainability is very important to us and we always suggest donating unwanted furnishings, incorporating vintage and antique items that are made to last, and only using materials and finishes that are safe for both indoor air quality and for the environment.

We try to stick with furniture that’s made in America with natural materials and limited use of VOCs in the glues and finishes.

Rip & Tan: What does living well mean to you?

Laura Hodges: I think that living well means creating a space that is reflective of your taste and that supports you in every way.

I believe that your environment can truly help you to feel motivated and focused for work or studying, calm and grounded for downtime, and warm and welcoming for hosting family and friends.