
Meet Hollie Velten-Lattrell: The Space Doula Redefining Home Design
In an era where home has become both a sanctuary and a canvas for self-expression, interior designer Hollie Velten-Lattrell stands out by blending the art of design with a personal touch that connects deeply with her clients. Founder of SPACES by Hollie Velten in Maplewood, NJ, Hollie's approach transcends traditional boundaries. Drawing from her unique background—once a dance major, jewelry designer, and senior buyer for brands like Forever 21 and Anthropologie—she aims to create environments that resonate with individual stories and communal desires.
Creating Meaningful Spaces Through Conversation
Hollie’s techniques include innovative strategies such as using a customized deck of cards with prompts like "I left my heart in..." or "the first thing I do in this space is..." By engaging with her clients in this manner, she delves into their emotions and preferences, cultivating spaces that make them feel truly at home. Velten-Lattrell believes that "everyone has a story, whether ancestral or generational, and that objects help tell that story." This philosophy not only enriches the design process but also honors the personal histories of those with whom she collaborates.
Importance of Childhood Imagination in Design
Hollie has honed her specialty in designing children’s rooms, where she emphasizes the importance of fostering creativity and imagination. Her method, described as nurturing a child's agency in designing their space, is revolutionary. With playful exercises, she encourages kids to express their visions, such as creating a "happy face" lighting plan or measuring spaces in footprints, which fosters an environment where children feel empowered. "Their ideas just take a little interpretation," she asserts. This method not only makes kids active participants in the design process but also sparks a level of excitement and investment in their own habits of living.
Bringing History Home
Starting a project with a family heirloom or treasured item is a vital strategy for Hollie, as it invites conversation around past influences that shape a person’s identity. One client mentioned a cherished photo that led to a hand-painted mural echoing the sentiments of family history. This practice creates a narrative-rich backdrop that links generations and celebrates familial bonds, as expressed beautifully in her work with children, which allows the blending of personal history with creative exploration.
How Her Design Philosophy Redefines Comfort
Hollie’s spaces reflect a philosophical stance articulated in her design belief that home should be layered, lived-in, and storied. “Don’t rush to chase a shiny finish,” she advises. Instead, she advocates for taking time to connect with one’s environment, seeking out meaningful belongings that elicit joy. Her commitment to authenticity and personalization translates into designs that are not just visually appealing but also invoke a comfortable, lived-in feel, allowing her designs to resonate emotionally with inhabitants.
As the need for safe, comforting spaces increases, Hollie Velten-Lattrell's refreshing artistry in home décor presents a compelling framework for modern interior design. Her ability to draw out client stories and child's imaginations makes her a pioneer in spaces that feel both inviting and reflective of the people who inhabit them.
For homeowners looking to bridge the gap between aesthetic appeal and personal expression, embracing Hollie’s philosophy may be the key to achieving a truly magnificent home.
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