Join us in welcoming Laura Hodges from Laura Hodges Studio for this week’s designer spotlight. Laura strives to create the ultimate in beautiful, tailored spaces while fully expressing every client’s individual style and taste. Her boutique design firm is located in the Baltimore/Washington DC area where she is known for her international aesthetic and love for unique and dynamic environments.
What is your favorite part about designing?
My favorite part about designing is the moment when I find my inspiration for the space. This can happen with anything from artwork and fashion to even a client’s favorite travel destination. I try to start from something that is special to the client and the inspiration gets me excited for the design.
What would you say your style of design is?
My style of design tends to lean more modern and clean-lined but with a good mix of classic and vintage design elements. I find the best design comes from a curated collection of eclectic pieces that are tailored to my client’s taste.
Who or what would you cite as your most important influence?
My most important influence has been travel and the study of different cultures and design. Having a thorough understanding of the history of design as well as how people live all over the world gives me an expansive knowledge base from which to pull design ideas and inspiration.
What would be one piece of advice you’d give someone starting their own interior design career?
For a new designer, I would suggest studying and traveling as much as possible so you see a wide range of design styles. I would also suggest working or mentoring with someone you admire first to gain the valuable training and knowledge that comes from real world experience after attaining a degree.
What is your favorite color pallete to work with?
My favorite color palette has to include varying shades of blues. As the most calming of colors, I’ve found that it’s compatible and complementary to almost any other color whether it’s a dusty rose, a warm camel, or even a vibrant chartreuse. I also love incorporating black and white into my projects for a heightened sense of drama and contrast.