I thought it would make sense to introduce one of my biggest Design Soulmates of all— my boss! Promise I'm not brown-nosing — coming to work every day is a joy, plain and simple, and just about every single space we design for our clients I envy for myself (if only I had our clients' budget!)
I'm not kidding people, I could move into this powder bathroom. One time I just stood in there for like 10 minutes, soaking up the lacquered eggplant walls and drooling over the brass details. Think I could squeeze my suitcase in there...?
Courtney received her degree in interior design from the University of Texas at Austin before moving to New York for a few years, honing her style under Victoria Hagan and Gregg Jordan. She opened Courtney Hill Interiors in 2001 and today is one of the most well-respected designers in Houston. Full disclosure, all of these projects were completed before my time at CHI, so I can't take any credit — but they're some of my favorites.
There's a lot to love about this space, but if I had to choose just one detail, it'd be that inlaid brass border! To die for.
It's difficult to pin down Courtney's style, because she makes a concerted effort never to use the same piece twice and to make each project reflect our clients' personalities, needs and wishes. I admire her steadfastness in searching for perfection and settling for nothing less — it really makes each project unique. Since I started with CHI, we've worked on a modern project, a traditional John Staub home, a ranch, and a Manhattan brownstone, to name a few. Every project — every day — is different at the office. If I had to pick a few all encompassing words: polished, sophisticated, and fresh.
Courtney loves pairing antiques with fresh modern touches.
This photo just does not do the space justice. This study is a perfect balance of feminine and masculine, and the sage paneled walls are both sophisticated and cozy.
You might have seen Courtney's well-loved bulletin board design floating around on Pinterest.
Below, navy paneled walls balanced with elegant brass touches transformed a once drab media room into a sophisticated space for father and son, both avid golfers, to enjoy a golf simulator with friends. Luxurious textiles and thoughtful details work together to make a tailored and polished space. If you know me, you know I have an undying penchant for navy and brass.
I love the pop of orange of the books in the niches flanking the sofa.
On my wish list: my own serpent mirror. One day....
Now THAT'S a powder room sure to wow visitors.
Courtney's little girl's room is one of the most darling I've seen. I want the headboard and bed niche for my own room!
Another one of my favorite CHI projects is this chic farmhouse in Brenham. I was lucky enough to spend the night in the room below during a photoshoot, so I can confirm that this bed is as cozy as it looks. Truly a countryside getaway!
The Schumacher ikat fabric on the euro pillows is one of my all time favorites — so cheerful.
Courtney kept this bright, light-gray two-bedroom guest farmhouse lively by marrying chic and subtly rural touches. A mix of textures, from the alpaca headboards to the cowhide coffee table, makes the retreat both comfortable and elegant. All the wood floors are painted the same, as well as the shiplap walls, giving the farmhouse a cohesive look.
I wouldn't expect to find soft lilacs and blue-grays in a farmhouse, and that's exactly what I love about this.
If you want to keep up with some of our current projects and see what we've been working on lately, follow us on Instagram! ( @courtneyhillinteriors) Here are a few of my favorite CHI inspired things, if you want a bit of the magic in your own home:
1. Kelly Wearstler Tray (quite the splurge, I'll admit) 2. Serpent Magnifying Glass 3. Shagreen Match Holder 4. Silver-Rimmed Horn Bowl