Stepping Out of the Office: My Creative Journey to Charleston

As the founder of Clarity Home Interiors, I’m always seeking ways to push my creativity and find new sources of inspiration. Recently, I felt the need to step out of the daily demands of running a design firm and immerse myself in exploration. Sometimes, the best ideas come when you break free from routine—and that’s exactly what I set out to do on a spontaneous three-day trip to Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston, with its deep-rooted Southern charm, is where my soul feels at home, and I knew it would be the perfect place to refresh my creativity. 

Let me take you through my journey of discovery, where I left the itinerary open and allowed the beauty of Charleston to guide me. 

Day 1: A World of Design and Craftsmanship

My first stop was Fritz Porter, a trade-only boutique showroom housed in a revamped 1900s industrial building in North Charleston’s Navy Shipyards. This emerging urban center is set to become a hub for shops, offices, and residences, but today it still bears traces of its industrial past. At Fritz Porter, I spent time with textile director Becky LaRoche, who shared stories of her recent trip to England, sourcing unique lines like Liberty of London. These fabrics, with over a century of history, continue to inspire. What resonated most was the showroom’s commitment to supporting artisans around the world, many of whom are women working to provide for their families.

I found new treasures, including fabrics from Jean Monro, Rapture and Wright, and Volga, which I’m excited to incorporate into upcoming projects. Exploring the neighborhood, I envisioned its future potential, even though much of it is still under construction.

Next door, the restored power plant added to the industrial charm of the area. I also toured The Urban Electric Co., where I met with their team and saw firsthand the intricate craftsmanship behind the lighting fixtures we use in our projects back in Greenwich. Meeting the artisans and learning about their process was an experience I will carry with me into my future work.

Day 2: Exploring Charleston’s Hidden Gems

On Saturday, I started my day with a walk through the I’On and Daniel’s Island residential areas, where I admired the quintessential Charleston homes with their wraparound porches, gas lanterns, and lush landscaping. Every corner of this neighborhood had me dreaming of life in this Southern oasis. We work with clients who are exploring the coastal areas of South Carolina as many are living on the East Coast of New England and New Jersey and are looking to move, yet are drawn to the water.  

My next stop was the Mount Pleasant Mall, a treasure trove of antiques and unique finds. I discovered brass peacock figurines, cache pots, and oyster plates—perfect pieces for an upcoming tabletop event in Greenwich. Charleston’s King Street shopping district didn’t disappoint either. Two stores that stood out were Juliska, with its stunning tablescapes, and The Boutique. Both of these gems sparked inspiration for our luxury holiday event at the Greenwich Field Club with Fairfield County Look Magazine.  

By evening, I found myself dining at The Post House, a coastal tavern nestled in Mount Pleasant. With its chic outdoor space and Michelin Key recognition, this restaurant was the perfect way to end the day. 

Day 3: Southern Living and Inspiration

Before heading home, I made one last stop at the Urban Electric Co. factory, where I again marveled at the craftsmanship and artistry behind their lighting fixtures. Seeing the process up close reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration between designers and artisans. It’s this connection that brings true beauty and longevity to the spaces we create for our clients.

Day 4: Touring a Lighting Legacy

My last stop before heading to the airport was a tour through the The Urban Electric Company manufacturing plant. I met with our wonderful sales person, Landon, who showed us around the factory where we were able to witness the craftsmanship and meet the artisans who make each fixture by hand. 

Urban Electric is a true legacy and lifetime fixture that has been made for generations right here in the USA. This year marks the 20th anniversary of The Current, their magazine highlighting projects around the world. As I read through the pages, I could not help but feel a sense of pride in bringing this company to our clients.

I was able to explore what it means to be a creative and how that is translated through the manufacturing process where ideas are brought to life in an artful way that last and endure for years to come.  Seeing the process up close reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration between designers and artisans. It’s this connection that brings true beauty and longevity to the spaces we create for our clients.  

A Journey of Renewal and Inspiration

This trip to Charleston was more than just a getaway—it was a reminder of why I love what I do. Exploring new places, connecting with artisans, and finding inspiration in unexpected corners make me a better designer. It allows me to bring fresh ideas and unique perspectives to my clients, wherever they may be.

I am excited to continue expanding Clarity Home Interiors beyond our base in Greenwich, Connecticut, and look forward to working with clients in Charleston and beyond. Our experience in luxury custom home design in the Northeast, combined with our deep-rooted history in the South, makes Clarity Home Interiors a great choice for your custom home build from Connecticut to Florida.

Special Thanks

A heartfelt thank you to my lifelong best friend, Tracy, and her daughter, Sydney, for joining me on this unforgettable adventure.

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Design Resources

• Fritz Porter @fritzporterchs
• Anke Dreechsel Pillows @ankedrechsel
• Smithey Ironware @smitheyironware
• Wentworth @wentworthbygbs
• Urban Electric @urbanelectricco
• The Boutique Charleston @theboutiquecharleston
• Juliska @juliskaofficial
• Goldbug Collection @goldbugcollection
• Mount Pleasant Mall @mountpleasantmall

Southern Living Idea Design House 2024

• Designer: @allisonelebashinteriors
• @kiawahriverchs, @southernlivingmag, Builder: @dillardjonesbuilders, Architect: @mhk.architecture, @themarvinbrand

Hotels Featured

• Dunlin Hotel @dunlinaubergeresorts, Designer: @amandalindroth
• The Palmetto Hotel @palmettohotelcharleston

Restaurants

• Momo @momoriverfrontpark
• Sorelle @sorelle_CHS
• Island Provisions @islandprovisionschs
• The Post House @posthouseinn
• Delaney Oyster House @delaneyoysterhouse