The moment I stumbled upon Amanda Swanlund's design blog, I knew I was in for a treat. An interior designer (for her company Twenty One Two) who designs in a way that is just as gorgeous as it is functional, Amanda creates rooms that stylish individuals who crave a beautiful yet comfortable home yearn to live in. After all- what's the point of a great looking room if it isn't livable? Best of all, she loves to translate her love for aesthetics and colour into not just design but also to the way that she dresses and lives.Her blog is a lovely collection of all these inspirations. I asked her a few questions about her work and creative process, and here are her answers. Meet Amanda!
When did you know you wanted to be an interior designer? Did you go to school for it?I knew I wanted to be a designer around age 11 after watching decorator Lynette Jennings on Saturday mornings instead of cartoons. I wasn't quite too sure about what the career entailed, yet I have always been fascinated by interiors and fashion. I studied Interior Design at BCIT and graduated a few years ago.
What are your best sources of inspiration?
I'd have to say travel. I go on a lot of trips here and there and I always see incredible new spaces- restaurants, boutiques, cafes, hotel rooms. I also look up to some of my favourite designers like Sarah Richardson, Candice Olson, Nate Berkus, Barclay Buttera, Mary McDonald, Vicente Wolf, Samantha Pynn and Kelly Wearstler. And fashion plays a huge part for me too.
How often do you change the look of your own home? Do you believe that it is a continuous process and never "finished"?To be honest, I haven't changed anything in our apartment since we- being my boyfriend and I, moved here in 2009. We're in a rental, so I am waiting until we buy our first place to go wild! I think you can finish a room... until you want to redecorate a few years later!
How does your creative process work? (i.e. Are you always inspired by colour first?)
I like to take inspiration from my client, be it the art they collect, something they said to me during the consultation process that struck a cord, other parts of the home and how they want the space to feel. I love to start with a fabric or a wallpaper to get the creative juices flowing. That can help trigger a colour palette, furniture style and what kind of accessories etc. that we want to use in the space.
Where is your favourite geographical place in the world and why?That's a toughie! So far I'd have to say Paris or Rome. I was there this past summer and although didn't have too much time to explore, it was seriously magical. The history, the beauty, the people, the art was all so breath taking and fascinating. I can't wait to go back to Europe.
Do you have any tips for creating a beautifully designed room that will withstand the test of time?I think that if you're true to yourself and your personal style you can't go (too) wrong. :) By investing into classic pieces like a well tailored sofa, but having a little fun with accessories, you can really create a space that will look great for years to come. It's like fashion; if you jump on every trend bandwagon and don't stick with looks good on you and reflects your personal style, it's bound to fail. Pick what suits your needs and lifestyle, keep the lines clean and the colours fresh. If all else fails, hire a designer!
Alternate careers if you weren't an interior designer?
Merchandiser, stylist, furniture store owner, fashion buyer....anything creative!
I highly suggest you check out her blog-- it's full of inspiration for home decor, fashion and
All images are courtesy of Paul Melo