Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Maher.
Hi Taylor, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I never imagined I’d end up where I am today. I studied Apparel & Textiles with plans to move to New York and design shoes for women—but then COVID hit, and everything changed. I stayed in Atlanta to be closer to family and figure out my next step while the world was turned upside down.
That’s when I crossed paths with interior designer Katy Costner, who was looking for help. I instantly fell in love with the world of interiors. Katy taught me the basics and gave me the opportunity to design alongside her for some truly amazing clients. At the same time, I was bartending and working with STARTbrands, where I assisted with marketing and helped renovate a 1926 farmhouse with Kristy Gayton. Those two women played a huge role in launching my career and showed me just how far I could go in interior design.
Fast forward to two years ago—I met Dawn Heuer, and it was an instant connection. I began working at her design firm and had the incredible opportunity to be a design producer with her on the HGTV show Married to Real Estate. When I joined, Dawn shared her dream of opening a brick-and-mortar store—something that would bring more visibility to the brand and fill a gap in the community. We dove right in, scouting locations and sourcing one-of-a-kind pieces from places like Mexico City and London.
Eventually, we met Chris Carter, who had recently purchased the historic Old Highland Bakery building with plans to restore it. When he showed us the space, we were immediately sold—we couldn’t hide it even if we tried. We knew it was something special.
That space is now The Design House by HDC, and we’re beyond proud of what we’ve built. It’s more than just a store—it’s a reflection of our vision, hard work, and the incredible team of women who brought it to life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth ride—but I don’t think it’s supposed to be! Interior design is often seen as super glamorous, but honestly, that’s maybe 20% of the job. Most days are spent on dusty job sites, solving unexpected issues, moving furniture, dropping off plumbing fixtures, or tile, and working long hours to bring a vision to life.
And then there’s opening a retail space from scratch—that added a whole new level of challenge. From sourcing products to building out the space to navigating all the little details that come with launching a small business, it tested us in every way. But those challenges made it all feel even more meaningful once we opened the doors.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Design House by HDC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
The Design House by HDC is more than just a home decor store—it’s a curated experience that brings warmth, creativity, and global inspiration to Atlanta’s Old Forth Ward & Inman Park neighborhood. Founded by nationally recognized interior designer Dawn Heuer, the space serves as the first brick-and-mortar location for Heuer Design Collective, blending a showroom and retail destination into a cohesive, welcoming environment.
What We Do & What Sets Us Apart
At The Design House, we specialize in offering a thoughtfully curated collection of home goods that inspire and captivate. Our team, led by Senior Design Director Taylor Maher, sources unique pieces from around the country and the world, ensuring that each item is distinctive and not found around every corner. Our goal is to provide a one-of-a-kind experience, with new pieces arriving regularly to keep the space fresh and exciting for our visitors.
Our Brand Identity
We are most proud of creating a space that feels like a “warm hug” to everyone who walks through our doors. Dawn Heuer envisioned a showroom-store concept that is warm, happy, and approachable—a stark contrast to the often intimidating and stuffy perception of design. This ethos permeates every aspect of our brand, from the curated selection of products to the inviting atmosphere of our 4,000-square-foot space.
The Design House by HDC
What We Want You to Know
We believe that design should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re looking to refresh a single room or transform your entire home, The Design House offers a range of services and products to help you achieve your vision. Our team is here to guide and inspire you, ensuring that your experience with us is as delightful as the spaces we help you create.
Any big plans?
We’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead! Our interior design firm continues to grow, with clients across the country—from New York and Texas to Florida, Georgia, and now Ohio. It’s been so rewarding to see our work resonate in different markets, and our team has truly built something special together.
We also have some major news coming this September that we can’t wait to share—something we’ve been dreaming up for a while now. Be sure to follow along on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss the big reveal!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thedesignhousehdc.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafIQLK4fKO5-VK1lDjH_qirsrR0DjlJFpk-tLwfeBy-kMarwN4olKR5DC-pJw_aem_u80tzLyMzylOuW7kP1RghA
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taysayhay/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeuerDesignCollective
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignhousehdc/?hl=en
Image Credits
Becca Lea Photography
Hannah Forsberg
Elizabeth Lauren Granger Photography
Carson Hart
