Interior designer Maureen Stevens chats about how to mix patterns, colors and styles for a unique and well-put-together look.
By Lauren Jones, Photos by Laura Logan and Andrew Chan
Maureen Stevens, owner of Maureen Stevens Design, has always had a passion for creating visually stunning spaces and charming vignettes, and her use of color, patterns and functional elements has helped her make a name for herself in the Austin design world. While her personal style is approachable, fun and full of character, she continues to be inspired with each new project. Austin Woman recently sat down with Stevens as she shared the vision behind one of her latest redesigns, a one- bedroom condo overlooking downtown Austin.
“This space is all about fun and funk, combining Austin’s bohemian air, laid-back style and easy attitude, but in a way that is cohesive, refreshing and bold at the same time. We made it a point to shop local, scouring vintage shops and small boutiques. It’s part Southwestern but all Texan as well, with cacti, faux cowhide rugs, antlers and horns.” – Maureen Stevens
Get the Look
Don’t be afraid to mix styles.
“Interesting spaces with depth and drama call for mixing different styles. … A cohesive space calls for balance, scale and proportion, and exudes unity and rhythm, despite having furnishings that can be categorized in different styles.”
It’s all about color.
“Sure, white is universal and gray is now a classic, but to have some emphasis in a room, adding a vibrant color is the way to go.”
Support local.
“Austin has a bevy of talented artisans, makers, artists and proprietors. Finding [pieces]is only part of the fun of designing, and supporting local is the icing on the cake.”
Don’t underestimate the importance of functionality.
“Though we filled this space with tons of accessories, creating a beautiful space starts with thinking about function and space planning. Design kicks off with envisioning how the space will be used. [It’s] not about spaces; it’s about people. The living room functions as an office space as well as a guest bedroom. The dining room is perfect for dinner for four and the living-room center tables double as stools for extra seating when there’s more company.”
Have fun.
“When designing your own space, have fun with it. … Sure, there are some rules and principles to follow, but what is a room without your personality and spin on it? Fill it with items you absolutely love and mementos you will keep forever.”
In this Room
Living Room
- 2 Danes sleeper sofa
- burl-wood console and rattan peacock chair from Scoops Vintage Modern
- Wayfair leather papasan chair
- Wayfair malachite stool
- art from One Kings Lane
- Fable bohemian rug from Justina Blakeney for Loloi Rugs
- macramé hanging from Slow Down Productions on Etsy
- vintage oor lamp and of ce chair
- vintage trunks, vases, pillows and throws from Maureen Stevens’ personal collection
Bedroom
- Wayfair bed
- vintage nightstand
- Wayfair wooden stool
On the walls
- Etsy cactus mural and lime wall décor • Sherwin Williams Lucky Green 6926