I am so excited to share today’s post with you. When I first saw Shae McGee’s beautiful home, I immediately wanted to showcase it here. Something this lovely simply cannot be kept to oneself.

I came across Shea’s Instagram account a few weeks ago and have been intrigued by the beautiful images she posts. She’s an interior designer, mom of a beautiful baby girl and blogger based in California, and her work is amazing. I got in touch with her recently and she graciously agreed to answer a few questions about her work and her home.

You are in for the visual equivalent of a feast here, folks! Grab a coffee and take it all in…

I adore this light and bright open plan living space – it has a cozy, ‘lived in’ feel about it, despite it’s immaculate appearance. Shea’s perfectly curated mix of pastel and neutral shades with black and gold accents makes for a serene and sophisticated aesthetic.

I’m a huge fan of all white kitchens and this one is a solid reminder of why it would be my first choice. The dark wood floors highlight the white cabinetry beautifully and the pastel accents are spot on. I am a little obsessed with the fabric of that blind and Shea kindly divulged that its from the Windsor Smith Home collection.

Would you look at this workspace… sigh… no wonder Shea’s so creative!

• 

• 

Aha, so that’s how the infamous Radiant Orchid works a room! Seriously, how fabulous does that look!? And can I just say that this girl sure knows how to style a bookcase – an art form in its own right.

• 

• 

As for this nursery, I saved the best for last and all I can do is swoon.

When did you set up your business and what would be your advice for someone starting out?
I started my business almost 3 years ago. My best advice is to get practice wherever you can – style and restyle your own home constantly and volunteer to help neighbors and friends. I believe that hands on experience is the best way to build a portfolio and learn how the process works.

What’s your favorite or ‘go-to’ home store?
That’s a hard one because I am all over the map! Locally, I love Juxtaposition Home in Newport Beach. West Elm has some of my favorite affordable accents and accessories.

Your daughter’s nursery is exquisite! Could you give us the scoop on that show-stopping wallpaper?
Thank you! It is made by Cole & Sons which is only to the trade, but they sell it at Anthropologie!

And the beautiful pink dress artwork above the changing table?
I commissioned the piece from Kendall Boggs who has the most beautiful series of dress paintings.

I never really got what all the fuss was about with Pantone’s color of the year, ‘Radiant Orchid’, that is, until I saw your lounge. Those vibrant purple cushions make such an impact. Were you inspired by the trend prediction or were you just way ahead of the pack on that one?
I’d like to say I was ahead of the curve on that one! Truly, I started with the pretty floral print chair in the room and picked one of the colors from that to make pillows. I felt if there was one room to do velvet in, that room was it!

Any tips for styling a bookshelf?
I like to work from top to bottom and then side to side when styling shelves. It is much easier to see if everything is balanced. I also really like to mix materials – books, branches, lucite, glass, brass – the different elements bring bookshelves to life.

Which is your favorite room, and why?
Eek! That’s tough. Can I pick two?! My kitchen and the nursery are my favorites. The kitchen is always bright and cheery and we spend a lot of time in there. The nursery wallpaper makes me smile every time I walk in.

What is on your radar for decorating in 2014?
Interesting combinations are on my radar right now. I’m working with many of my clients to incorporate one boundary pushing element in each room. I think mixed metals (especially brass) will still be big this year as well.

Thank you so much, Shae, for taking the time to talk to us.

For more of Shea’s work, take a look at her website and blog.

Images: Brooke Palmer