Let’s face it Summer gets in the way of most things, and because of this blistering hot season (I’m a Fall & Winter girl), vacations were taken, designers get busy, and life simply goes into “island time.” So there was a little bit of time that elapsed between the last “Tastemaker” and our current one, and for good reason. The Designers I chose are photographing new work, going on vacation, one is in Italy working on the interior renovation for a villa (leaving me behind), and everyone is navigating a busy summer. So back to our #5. How did I hear about Jane? Well, I had certainly heard her name before but it wasn’t until we had Kristen Fountain Davis working on my new office (she’s talented and sweet) that we started talking about my “Series” and some of the designers that I was going to feature. Kristen- “What about Jane Goetz? Her work is amazing.” Me- “Hmm…I should really give her a look.” A simple conversation has turned into what maybe a lifelong obsession (another designer I have to watch). Because, Jane’s work is not only incredible, but it will withstand the litmus test of time that design critics use as a measure of talent. Yes, she is that good (you’ll soon see), and has interned for some of the biggest names in Southern design. When the interview was finished Jane had made a statement “I could go on.” Quite frankly, I really wished she would have. So let me introduce you to our fifth “Tastemaker,” Jane Goetz…
How did you get started in Interior Design?
I was a studio art major, but soon realized I wanted to be an interior designer. Unfortunately, my college did not offer a design degree. So I decided to stick with art, but worked as a design intern every summer in Atlanta for Candler Lloyd, Dotty Travis, and Nancy Braithwaite. After graduating with a degree in Art, I decided to go back to school to gain another BA, this time in Interior Design
You have certainly worked for some design heavyweights, but who would you say has influenced your design style the most?
Each designer had her own style, and they all had amazing taste. I learned so much about the industry working for all of them. But, my first real job was working as a design assistant for Jackye Lanham. Her taste is impeccable and her work ethic is unmatched.
How would you define your aesthetic?
I grew up in a very formal, traditional, southern classic home. I have Southern roots, but I have a true appreciation for modern art, furniture and design. Most of my clients are fairly traditional, but they do take occasional risks when I try to push them. My favorite clients trust me. Most of them are willing to take unexpected turns and they are always glad they did. I love mixing bold patterns with amazing textures…never too busy, but just graphic enough to have impact.
I love the unexpected details in your designs for example; hanging a starburst mirror over a vent hood, a bold graphic ceiling treatment or modern artwork juxtaposed against traditional furnishings. What advice would you give for creating the biggest impact in a space?
There are so many ways to create impact. I love taking beautiful items such as garden statuary and turning them into lamps or re-purposing them in some way. Also, a $10.00 lamp with a $200.00 shade can be a good thing. Same goes with art. I have put an expensive frame on a $40.00 painting bought at a thrift store. I love to mix high and low end items in a room. Who cares if it isn’t fine art – If you love it, buy it.
You studied 19th & 20th Century Art History at Christie’s, but what period in history is your favorite?
I am obsessed with Art Deco design and jewelry.
What inspires you?
I take photos of the most random things (just ask my husband), but they give me a lot of design inspiration. The majority of inspiration comes from what I see when I travel, and every day in nature and architecture. I see a random architectural feature on a house, or a color of a flower, leaf or shell and it becomes a tile pattern, the shape of a cabinet door, or the color of a room.
Favorite Color?
My favorite color is a medium dark grey/ green/blue. I have four velvet (my favorite fabric) chairs in my house that truly capture the essence of that color. The color shifts with the time of day. It can range from slate blue to almost teal, and it looks great with ANY saturated color. I consider it a neutral.
If you could design a dream project anywhere in the world-where would it be?
I would love to design a fabulous small restaurant one day. Something clean lined, yet filled with amazing textures, lighting and eye candy at every turn. It could be the kind of place where you would want to linger for hours because it makes you feel cocooned in it’s splendor.
What is the one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I love to entertain. My mind is always planning the next excuse to have a cocktail. I prefer to cook for 12-15 people, and I am challenged when cooking dinner for 2-4. I have never understood why people prefer to wait for a “nice” occasion to use their finer things. I believe that life is short, and every day should be a nice occasion. There is no reason not to use the “good stuff” if you have access to it or received it as a wedding gift, for instance…silver, napkins, china, silver goblets, crystal glasses. Use them!
Thanks, Jane for taking the time to share your incredible design insight with our readers!
Now for the eye candy…
Designer/ Jane Goetz
Pattern play…
Designer/ Jane Goetz
A paved hallway for miles…
Designer/ Jane Goetz
White hot…
Designer/ Jane Goetz
That wallpaper…
Designer/ Jane Goetz
A glorious ceiling treatment paired with scrumptious drapery…
Designer/ Jane Goetz
A bar “noir.”
Designer/ Jane Goetz
A oh-so-stylish nursery...
Designer/ Jane Goetz
A room with an incredible view…
A little bit of design wisdom from Jane…
I hope your enjoying our “Southern Tastemaker Series” as much as we are. I am in awe of all the talent we have featured by designers who are truly making an incredible impact in the world of design. I hope you are inspired to go out and create your dream interior, and if you want to see more of Jane’s work you can visit her website at janegoetzinteriordesign.com. As always please make sure that you attribute the work of our designers when pinning or sharing the images.
Until next time…
BE INSPIRED. BE AMAZING.
