Interior designer Monica Sullivan co-founded Moxie Design Studio in 2012 with Michelle Pierce. Together this designing duo have been a creative force.
Monica and Michelle shared with LuxePros and over 300 guests the best of their talents, inspirations, and techniques at a LuxePros Launch for a contemporary million-dollar listing in the heart of Paradise Valley.
After all, in the end, doesn’t it just come down to spaces with a sense of history and adventure that become part of people’s biography?
So let’s explore your history. Monica, what in your past inspired you to pursue design?
MS: I’ve been doing interior design since I was very young, starting with my first “house” that my grandpa built as my play house. I painted it, put furniture inside, and helped my grandma design the drapes! My passion has only grown since. Then it wasn’t more than a hobby until I went to school to get my Bachelor’s in Interior Design and took it to the professional level. I’m in love with what I do!
And Michelle, what was your muse?
MP: My father was a General Contractor and lured me away from my 10-year “stint” in office furnishings to work with him doing new business development, sales, and construction estimating. I thought taking a general overview interior design course would be fun and would align well with my new venture. It wasn’t long before my soul started humming and I was absolutely hooked! I felt all the pieces of my life come together in a profession where I could marry my business background and with my life-long love of all things creative. And so, the next chapter of my life-journey began.
If I was a client, Michelle what could I expect from you in style?
MP: I’m a very eclectic individual, although I generally lean towards a more transitional feel with a splash of Metropolitan.
What is your signature touch Michelle?
MS: I don’t necessarily like to say that I have a signature style although I do consider myself pretty eclectic. I might say a “Gypsy Interior Designer.” I take the client’s design preferences and add my own flair to make a space unique, sylish, and fitting to their specific requests.
What inspires you? Where do you draw your inspiration from?
MS: My inspiration comes from places that I’ve experienced, whether it be in another country, another state, another house that I find amazing or a website or blog with inspirational ideas. There is inspiration in all that surrounds us. Everything that I experience draws me in and grabs my attention.
The brands a designer gravitates toward helps tell the story. Which design brands do you love the most?
MS: There are so many design brands from which to choose. A few of my absolute favorites are: Maya Romanoff with their amazing wallcoverings; Hubbardton Forge Lighting; Holly Hunt furniture; Brizo plumbing fixtures; and Donghia fabrics.
And you Michelle? What are your go to brands?
MP: Marge Carson, Barbara Berry, Bernhardt, Currey & Company, Hickory Chair, Maya Romanoff, Phillip Jeffries, Walker Zanger, Ann Sacks … the list goes on and on!
Are the colors, textures, and techniques found in the show house reflect what you typically gravitate to in furniture design?
MS: I prefer neutral colors and organic textures on contemporary style furniture with a hint of charm and character. Modern organic with a twist of vintage.
MP: I absolutely love color. I love texture. And, I love furniture … ‘nuf said
What is your philosophy on design and life? Are you as fun as you both sound?
MS: Enjoy life and all its opportunities. Embrace your surroundings and yourself. Love life. Love your space.
MP: Successful design has a tremendous effect on our client’s lives. We create environments that work for them in whatever facet of life they’re in while harmoniously blending their treasures with new pieces that effortlessly showcase their personalities, tastes, and preferences. I’m a firm believer in our work should be a true reflection of the home owner – not the designer. I also believe that successful design encompasses far more than the product we deliver. It’s about the experience we create and provide our clients.
As a final thought, give our readers three words that best describe you.
MS: Sincere. Creative. Adventurous.
MP: Multi-faceted. Energetic. Fun.
Photography: Simon Photographic
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