Today we’d like to introduce you to Yancey Shearouse.
Yancey, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am from Natchez, Mississippi, so I grew up in and around incredible houses with authentic antiques. During Spring Pilgrimage (during which our Natchez antebellum homes are open to tourists) I “received” those tourists at The Shields Town House, and as an 8-year-old, pointed out to them the Prince of Wales plumes on the bed canopy and the Marlborough legs on the chairs. This was normal for Natchez’ young girls … it’s just what we did and terms we learned.
I had always wanted to be an architect but decided on the interior design so that I could design the space and decorate it too. I was very fortunate to have an incredible interior design professor at Ole Miss, Jack Hull. He had been a practicing interior designer and returned to teach. He stressed that one needed to learn how to run a business … besides knowing the standards on plumbing, electrical and design.
My first ”real” projects began in 1996, the summer after my junior year. I had several weeks before my study abroad program in which I designed a handicap accessible upstairs apartment in an 1870’s building in Natchez. We added a back porch, hid the hydraulic lift elevator behind historically appropriate shutters, and the family loved the space – in fact, they’re still enjoying it. I continued getting calls from family friends while I was a senior at Ole Miss. I would drive down, redesign the kitchens or bathrooms and check back in at Christmas or on Spring Break. By the time I graduated, I had an 1870 Greek Revival and a 1910 Colonial Revival as working projects. It was 1997… so think limited internet and portfolios that you held in your hands. I created my own corporation in August of 1997, and thus Yancey Seibert Interior Design, Ltd. began.
Initially, I was a space planner. I learned the building process through doing and working with contractors and could always explain or figure out an issue by and through drawing on site. Many an initial plan for some of my projects lurk beneath now-painted walls in clients completed homes. As for decorating, I would draw that too. Using my knowledge of antiques, art history and space planning, I would plan the space and then source it. Over time, I have gained access the pieces I conjured up in my head. It has definitely been a slow and steady journey.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road has certainly not always been smooth. I think anyone that starts their own business faces challenges but it makes you and your company stronger. I would say that the internet is a blessing and a curse. It has sped up the process immeasurably, but it also allows everyone access to the world of interior design.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I would say I am known as a space planner who can sketch what you want so that you can see the finished product. It has been my “tap dance” since starting in interior design. I was initially known for my kitchen design, but I feel that our firm has achieved the reputation for more than kitchens, and is known for imaginative design that lasts in the classical sense while delicately pushing the envelope to create relevance.
My mantra incorporates the same five design guidelines which I’ve harped on for the 20 years that I’ve been in business. First, decorate what you see.
This brings your focus to the important and eliminates the time or money focused on the spaces that aren’t seen initially in your home or office. Of course, we like to do it all, but first things first. My second is from a late great decorator under whom I interned in Natchez, Hal Garner. I accompanied him on an appointment where he was meeting with an older widow whom I knew. He told her, “You need to look good naked in your bedroom.” Thankfully, we all fell out laughing, but I got what he was saying … and obviously remembered it. Her house needed to be her colors, not mine or his. I still consider composition as the base of the design and draw in pencil or black ink. It can then be colored to fit the client. My third design principle is also one I learned from growing up in Natchez. Natchezians inherited furniture and consequently didn’t necessarily have matching side tables and the “new” sofa was at least 20 years old. So, I say we should “shop in your house.” Of course you need good things but everything doesn’t have to be fine. The use of texture, a little history and focusing on the important pieces make a space interesting. Often times, it makes the plan achievable. Of course, I preach, “Do it once and do it right.” Encouraging patience … it’s not always easy, and educating a client on the reason why something is worth the investment in order to have quality is key. I am not a fan of filler furniture … unless it’s used until the replacement arrives. Lastly, I use the gift of humor for my clients to remember, “Don’t put on all your jewelry at once!” Every great idea can’t go into one house or space. Others might call it ”editing”, but nothing about “editing” gives you the visual of being “over-jeweled!”
As a company, I am most proud of hitting the million dollar mark in 2017.
I believe that my knowledge of art history and building construction sets me apart from other interior designers.
What were you like growing up?
I’ve always had a passion for constructing things. From dollhouses to prom sets, I could always be found putting something together! I have a love for traveling, and I’m always thinking about my next trip! (Even though it may be 5 years away!)
My favorite TV shows growing up were This Old House with Bob Vila and Style with Elsa Klensch.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.yssinteriordesign.com
Image Credit:
Joe Bailey
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