Today it’s a big day for Home Design Ideas! I will publish my first, of many, exclusive interviews with the best interior designer. The first talented (and great) designer to be featured here is Margaret Kirkland – a brilliant young woman named “Next wave designer” by House Beautiful in 2012.

I have to admit that i didn’t know much about Margaret Kirkland interior designs until i wrote this article “5 fantastic decor tips from up and coming interior designers“, but I immediately became a fan!! Her projects are beautiful and present a classic, elegant style that is so nice to see!

Take a little time to read this exclusive interview with Margaret Kirkland – a fantastic interior designer and a really nice person!

Margaret Kirkland – Jenny Lauren Photography

– How and why did you get into the design Industry?

I fell into interior design in a very serendipitous way! I studied Art History in college, and while running a gallery in Maine, I was approached by a New York designer that asked me to come and work for her. Before I knew it, I had moved to New York and was working for Sara Bengur and taking classes at “Parsons School of Design.”

– How would you describe your design style? Do you have a signature touch with your designs? Classic, ladylike and elegant. I’m a traditionalist at heart, and that comes through in my design. I also always like to add something living to all my spaces., and there is usually at least one piece of porcelain in every room I do, even if it is a garden stool. Southern plantation by Margaret Kirkland | photo by Holger Obenaus – What do you love about being a designer?

Working with fascinating clients and helping them exhibit their individual style and taste. Also, every day is an adventure and totally different…I love being on the go!

– Where do you draw your inspiration from?

The past’s classical interiors. Great shelter magazines and books. Nothing inspires more than travel!

– What are some of your most popular designs/projects? Tell us a bit about some of your designs/projects and what you love about them. What’s your favourite and why?

I really love all of the projects I work on, but if I had to choose the most unique ones, I would have to say France. The projects that I have done in France have been an absolute dream to work on. The craftsmen, the setting, and the light in Provence just make everything shine.

– Is there anything exciting that you are working on at the moment that you can tell us about?

I am really excited about a Park Avenue apartment that we are about to install for a young family in New York. They are the loveliest couple to work with, and we created a very colorful and traditional retreat in the City for them.

– What colours, textures and furniture pieces do you love the most?

I’ve never met a color I didn’t like, but I lean most towards the colors that come with onset of Spring – all shades of green, yellow, blush, and aqua. I love combining as many textures as a room can take,

and there is usually at least one piece of porcelain in every room I do to give a finished, polished look.

The classic and elegant room featured in House Beautiful | photo by Mali Azima

– If someone gave to you an empty blank room. How would you style it?

I would probably use lots of color and whimsy and there would definitely be some Chinoiserie accents to it… I think it would be fun to have some exotic detailing that I don’t always get to do.

– Describe yourself in three words.

Creative, devoted and witty!

– What is your philosophy on design and life?

I always try to remember not to take myself too seriously, to live in the moment and to keep a sense of humor. Life is too short to be stressed out, missing all the joy and fun that comes our way.

A relaxing outside sitting area by Margaret Kirkland