Finding Inspiration
Reviewing Great Work with The SPI President
Martha Thomley is the Founder and President of SPI. 20 years into the world of interior design, we wanted to ask her which fellow designers spark her creativity and renew her energy for the work.
Who is an individual or group designer/blogger outside of our typical design space that inspires you in your designs or personally?
As a previous owner of a travel agency, I find my true inspiration comes from many different areas of the world. My eclectic compilation of design style comes off as a juxtaposition of “casual elegance,” with a little bit of fun thrown in for surprise.
I love to comb the pages of magazines, and see how jewelry, travel, art and fashion inspires me. One of my favorite websites to visit is https://www.eightdegreessouthexport.com/. I love their organic natural materials, and the simplicity of their products showcased in beautiful images. It reminds me of ocean breezes and a such a peaceful relaxed lifestyle.
My more-is-never-enough side, however, gravitates to [Phoebe Howard](https://phoebehoward.net/). Her ability to marry traditional and modern touches in every space she creates gives me a sense peace in balance and elegance.
Another designer I like to follow is [Ashley Stark](https://ashleystarkhome.com/). She uses her love of travel to inspire her spaces, and literally love everything she designs.
What are some examples you can share with us?
The Eight Degrees South team incorporates natural elements to give a warm, welcoming spaces. You could be dressed in a cocktail dress, or a beach coverup, and be comfortable in their spaces.
art.”
“In another example, she transforms a very traditional interior space into an inviting, relaxed feel using a mix of natural elements of rattan and soft colors to invite you into the space.”
In Ashley Stark’s designs, she brings the exterior elements into the space, and reminds you of the romance of design.
How have you used inspiration from their work to implement new installations or design elements in your own work?
I pull inspiration from these, and many other designers, who incorporate the old with the new into their spaces. The harmony of the past with the present gives me a sense of a truly grounded space that anyone can be comfortable within.