We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Byron Risdon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Byron below.

Byron, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

I definitely have days more challenging than others but I am definitely happy as a creative. I see a home as a safe haven and place of peace and comfort. I enjoy being a part of creating safety, comfort and beauty for others. Interior design can transform how you feel as well as the space you’re in.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My father owned and operated a property management company in South Carolina, and I grew up visiting job sites and seeing renovations firsthand. My mother often assisted in selecting finishes and putting the spaces together. Watching plain, simple spaces transformed into something beautiful was magical.

At home, I watched my mother flip through shelter magazines and witnessed her excitement at the new wallpaper or custom draperies being installed in our home. At the time, I didn’t fully comprehend the world of design that existed, but I remember appreciating the feeling a completed space gives and how transformative the experience was for the owners.
Those early experiences shaped how I approach the design process and why I place so much emphasis on the feeling that is evoked when a person is in the space. Yes – I want the spaces I create to be beautiful and functional, but the most important characteristic is how the completed space makes you feel. This is one of the first questions I ask all new clients.

I want my clients to be part of the process and I believe in a collaborative effort. I treat every project individually and create spaces that will stand the test of time.

Authenticity and transparency are the cornerstones in both my business and my personal life. Authenticity in design means you will stay true to yourself and your vision. Transparency provides the foundation for trust to grow. This is a very intimate relationship, and both authenticity and trust are paramount to this relationship and to successfully complete a project.
A space should evolve over time, and my goal is to create a beautifully curated foundation. You can build on this foundation over time by adding elements that speak to who you are and remind you of special moments in your life. Over the years, I have developed a list of vendors, artisans, and showrooms that have been thoughtfully selected to produce results that will exceed your expectations. Each space is well planned and developed by sourcing and specifying high-quality products you can depend on for years to come. My aesthetic is timeless, tailored, layered, and textural. I love to mix patterns, styles, and colors. I always approach designing a home with the idea that there is an invisible string tying each room together to tell a story about your home and the people that live there. Each room is its own space but always harmoniously connected to the whole.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I literally had to pivot when starting my business. At the time I was working for a small retail start up as a designer. After my last position, which was very stressful, I was happy to be in an easy environment but it just wasn’t rewarding. I was at a crossroads about what to do next when I was approached to do a renovation/remodel and interior design of a project. I didn’t technically have an operating business at the time but I decided to take the leap, go out on my own and leave my job. I wasn’t sure at all how it would all work out but it’s been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

One of the most important driving factors for me as an interior designer is visibility. Growing up I wasn’t exposed to the industry and certainly didn’t see anyone who looked like me in this field. Even after landing my first job and becoming a part of the community there were very few interior designers I could connect with culturally. I am determined to make sure I show up as often as possible so a new generation of creatives can experience my journey in a way I was never able to and hopefully see me as inspiration for theirs.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.byronrisdon.com
• Instagram: @byronrisdon
• Facebook: Byron Risdon LLC
• Linkedin: Byron Risdon

Image Credits

Keyanna Bowen, East & Lane