Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Donna Gilliam. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Donna, thanks for joining us today. Can you tell us about a time where you or your team really helped a customer get an amazing result?

I will celebrate 20 years as a professional interior designer this month, and with each project, I uncover something new. Clients often step into the design process for the first time without a realistic grasp of budget expectations. Recently, I encountered a client embarking on a kitchen renovation, unaware of the extensive scope involved. Upon presenting the design—admittedly stunning—and accompanying budget, I could sense some sticker shock.

Known for hearing what the client doesn’t say, I paused to address her apprehensions, offering an alternative approach. Rather than a complete gut renovation, I proposed refreshing the existing kitchen, illustrating potential outcomes. Instantly, a wave of relief washed over her. Although not our typical project, I deemed it the fitting solution in this instance.

Ultimately, the kitchen emerged rejuvenated and highly functional, a testament to collaborative problem-solving. These clients proved a delight to work with, their satisfaction affirming the significance of tailored solutions in achieving exceptional outcomes.

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.

I’m the principal designer and founder of the Nashville-based design firm, Donna Gilliam Interiors, LLC. My roots are firmly planted in Music City, as I earned my first of two degrees at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). However, my path led me west to Los Angeles where I pursued a career in acting, spending much of my adult life absorbing the diverse design influences of the West Coast.

After years in the performing arts, my passion for creativity led me back to academia to pursue a graduate degree in performance and arts administration/non-profit management at California State University, Los Angeles. While there I gained valuable experience working and was fortunate to work on the launch of the Harriet & Charles Luckman Fine Arts Complex, a significant presenting organization on the CSULA campus. However, love led me to Seattle, where I continued to contribute to the arts scene while nurturing my growing interest in design.

In Seattle, my career continued to blossomed. Balancing roles as an arts administrator and budding designer, I earned an interior design degree and founded my first design firm, All Things Beautiful. Our clientele boasted top executives from some of the world’s largest companies, affirming our commitment to excellence and “doing it right the first time.”

With a wealth of experience and a burgeoning passion for design, I returned to Nashville, this time with my husband and one-year-old daughter, and established Donna Gilliam Interiors. My approach revolves around tailoring custom design projects to our clients’ lifestyles and needs, a philosophy deeply rooted in trying to understand both spoken and unspoken client desires.

We’re backed by strong relationships with talented artisans, craftspeople, and trade suppliers, which helps us consistently delivers exceptional quality and craftsmanship in every project. One of our crowning achievements came as we served as the interior designers for the National Museum of African American Music, which opened its doors in September 2020.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I’m the master of successful pivots. In May, I’ll be commemorating 20 years as a professional interior designer—a milestone marking my third career transition. Following college, I ventured to Los Angeles with dreams of pursuing acting. However, after grappling with the financial uncertainties synonymous with the industry, I realized the path wasn’t aligning with my aspirations. Recognizing the need for stability, I embarked on a new journey, enrolling in a graduate program in arts administration—a rewarding chapter that spanned nearly a decade.

Yet, as my career in arts administration flourished, I found myself craving a more creatively fulfilling outlet. Reflecting on what I envisioned for my long-term happiness, I delved into my passions during my downtime. Interior design, architecture, and gardening captivated me, prompting me to take a leap of faith. I decided to explore interior design further, enrolling in Bellevue College and earning another degree.

The transition wasn’t without its challenges, but it’s a testament to the power of pursuing what you love. It’s about mastering your craft and finding fulfillment—whether in work or leisure. Today, I’m privileged to do what I adore, blending my passions and skills in a career that brings me joy and fiscal reward.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most impactful approach I’ve found for expanding my clientele is understanding that each project I undertake serves as a steppingstone to the next. I approach every decision for my clients’ projects with the same level of care and consideration as I would if it were my own home or business. It’s about empathy and integrity—I believe in treating my clients’ spaces as if they were my own, ensuring they receive the same level of attention and dedication I would want for myself.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.donnagilliaminteriors.com
• Instagram: @donnagilliaminteriors

Image Credits
Laura Rockett Photography and Leslie Brown Photography