INTERIOR DESIGNER CHATS: Mackenzie Collier

Each month we chat with local interior designers in Phoenix. This month we spoke with Mackenzie Collier about her favorite trends, least favorite trends and her ideal home.

What do you think is going to be the next trend in interior design?

Generally, I’m not a big “trend” person, as I like to see a space reflect the people who live in it rather than over-arching trends that will inevitably end up in a landfill once they phase out in a year or two. That said, I am seeing continued progress toward incorporating sustainability into design plans and minimizing the impact spaces have on the planet—and that trend is here to stay. Bringing fresh air, natural light, and layering textures that mimic nature into a space will never go out of style!

What is your favorite trend this year?

I love seeing so many plants come into the home! Bloggers & Instagrammers have popularized the look of layering tons of houseplants into the room design. It brings nature in and also makes the environment healthier. I think it’s a result of the overall movement toward sustainability & eco-friendliness, and that’s great.

What is the biggest design mistake that you see most often?

People over-using bold paint colors. I like to keep paint light and neutral to keep a space from feeling overwhelming. I prefer color to be brought into a space in smaller, more pleasantly impactful textiles & accessories. That also gives you the flexibility to change your color scheme often to keep up with your tastes as they evolve. The only time I think a bold wall color works is when everything else in the space is very quiet and all one neutral color, or if you go really dark with paint and accessories to achieve a dramatic, moody look.  

What is one change every homeowner should make?

Declutter. I suggest doing a mock move-out of a space every few years to prevent chaos. Move everything from one room into another room and then as you move things back into the original room, ask yourself if the item is useful or if you love it; if you can’t answer yes to one of those questions, donate it!  

Edit what is in your space constantly.  As Americans, I think we spend far too much time managing the things we own and not nearly enough time out connecting to nature. When you declutter and organize, focus on creating a space that supports and streamlines your daily routine and makes it easier to move through your day. Avoid hanging onto too many sentimental items you don’t need… the memory is already yours, so take a photo of it, and focus on creating a space that supports your life today.

What is your favorite thing in the home?

I’m obsessed with chairs. They bring so much personality into a space. They give you a real opportunity to be unique.  Unfortunately a home can only hold so many chairs, so I’ll have to settle for Pinterest boards full of chairs instead.  

Least favorite?

Ceiling fans. Some of the newer, more modern ones are less offensive though, especially if they are the same color as the ceiling and disappear a bit. But seeing a dark ceiling fan on a light ceiling drives me nuts! It’s not a feature of the space, so I like to downplay it whenever possible.  

Describe an ideal home in 3 words.

Bright, Cheerful, Comfortable

For more of Mackenzie’s Design insight check out her website https://mackenziecollierinteriors.com or follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Houzz.