Meet Shellie Brown Kemp, Mitzi x Eny Lee Parker Design Challenge Winner

Spoak member and designer Shellie Brown Kemp knows a good piece of art when she sees one. In our latest design challenge with Mitzi, she showcased lighting designer Eny Lee Parker’s pieces from her latest collection with Mitzi like the works they are. The prompt was to design a contemporary and organic space with at least two pieces from the collection, and we loved how Shellie incorporated so much texture and dimension in her design. We were lucky to catch up with her and learn more about her design process, what she loves right now, and how she finds inspiration.

Describe yourself in 3 emojis.

🎻🍕☕️

Briefly tell us about your design journey.

I remember loving interiors when I was little. I would tape pieces of printer paper together to make huge architectural blueprints, rearrange my aunt’s house, go antiquing with my mom, and visit open houses for fun. I grew up playing the violin, earned my bachelors and masters degrees in music performance, and is now what I do professionally. There wasn't a lot of time to even realize how much I loved interiors, but I have always been someone who appreciates beautiful interiors and the way they make me feel. I have always picked places abroad on Yelp for the vibe and enjoyment of their interiors, for instance, and loved designing and decorating my own home. Spoak is what lead me to love interior design even more because I finally have the tools to grow and explore my style even further.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Pinterest and design magazines, as well as influencers and designers on instagram. I also am inspired by browsing my favorite home retailers online such as Crate and Barrel and Anthropologie, especially when they launch new products.

Tell us about a designer or artist you love. What about them and their work are you drawn to?

I love Beata Heuman's work! I love how she designs with warm and whimsical touches in product and color, yet the overall outcome is classic and beautiful. It takes my breath away!

What do you do on your time off to recharge creatively?

I love to sit in coffee shops for hours on end journaling, collecting inspo on Pinterest, or designing on Spoak. I also love taking walks with my family - getting outside is such a wonderful way to reset and clear your mind.

What's the best thing you've consumed recently?

An oat milk latte and blackberry scone from my favorite local Jackson, MS coffee shop, Native. Also, the sourdough pancake at Liberty House in Asheville, NC!