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Imagine a world where your home isn’t just a place to live, but a vibrant expression of who you are. Stephanie Wiott, the visionary founder of Stephanie Wiott Designs in Carmel, Indiana, embodies this philosophy. With a background that started in kitchen renovations during the recession of 2008, her journey has been anything but conventional. Faced with challenges, she embraced her family’s wisdom: “It’s not about if you fall, it’s about when you fall, and what matters is how you get back up.” This mantra not only fueled her resilience but also paved the way for her to expand her business into a full-service design studio.
Balancing beauty and practicality
Wiott believes that design should be as functional as it is beautiful. She states, “My mind always sees pretty, but my brain thinks function.” This duality shapes her designs, ensuring they cater to the modern family’s needs. Her work features thoughtful details like rounded corners for safety and avoiding horizontal railings that could become dangerous for small children. It’s a refreshing take on interior design—one that acknowledges the realities of family life while still delivering stunning aesthetics.
When it comes to color palettes, her preference leans towards breezy neutrals, creating a backdrop that allows families to live comfortably without the fear of damaging high-end pieces. After all, recommending a $15,000 couch to a household filled with kids and pets? Not on her watch! Instead, Wiott strategically blends fun with functionality, making sure every element in a room serves a purpose while still looking fabulous.
Innovative designs that surprise
One of the standout features of Wiott’s work is her knack for incorporating unexpected elements into her designs. For instance, take a look at her work on a sprawling 14,000-square-foot lake house, where she transformed a basement into a two-lane bowling alley. But—not surprisingly—she avoided the typical bowling alley vibe. Instead, she crafted a sophisticated environment that echoes a Ralph Lauren lounge, complete with elegant trimwork and a striking navy hue. When she reflects on this project, she humorously recalls, “All I kept thinking was, ‘Don’t make it look like a Brunswick Zone.'” The result? A space that feels inviting and chic, far removed from the traditional bowling alley atmosphere.
Another fun aspect of her designs is how she injects whimsy into spaces. For a home gym, she chose Spoonflower Benjamin Franklin wallpaper, depicting the founding father blowing bubble gum. The goal? To entice the homeowner into enjoying their workouts. Wiott shares her philosophy: “I want to evoke all the good feelings… I want our homes to make you smile a little.” This commitment to happiness through design is what sets her apart in a crowded industry.
Inspiration and aspirations
When asked about brands she admires, Wiott doesn’t hesitate to mention Ann Sacks, a name synonymous with exquisite tile. Going to the Merchandise Mart with her mom was a formative experience—one that sparked her passion for design. “I used to think, One day, I’m going to buy tile from Ann. It’s a core memory,” she reminisces, underscoring how personal experiences shape professional aspirations.
Influences and future trends
As for industry influences, Wiott looks up to Jean Stoffer, whose approachable nature and relatable Midwest roots resonate with her. Wiott admires Stoffer’s ability to blend family dynamics into her work, something they both seem to cherish. However, there’s one trend Wiott hopes to see less of in the coming years: shiplap. Despite its popularity, she expresses a bit of exasperation, saying, “I always say that, but still, everyone wants it.” While shiplap provides texture and character, she can’t help but feel it’s time for something fresh to take the stage.
As we look toward the future of home design, it’s clear that voices like Stephanie Wiott’s will lead the way, redefining spaces with a harmonious blend of function and beauty. With her unique perspective, she challenges the status quo and inspires others to see their homes as canvases for creativity and joy. So, whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply someone looking to refresh your living space, keep an eye on the transformative work coming from Wiott’s studio—it’s bound to inspire you.