An Interview with Interior Designer, Lindsay Speace

We were lucky enough to interview local interior designer, Lindsay Speace. Lindsay works with clients all across the DC region and beyond. Follow her on Instagram and subscribe to her blog for oodles of inspiration. If you’re looking for a local designer we definitely think you should contact her.

North Uhle Project

GHT: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your design firm.
Lindsay: I’m originally from Cape Cod, Massachusetts but found my way to DC shortly after graduation and haven’t found a reason to leave almost six years later! I live on Capitol Hill with my husband and golden retriever and love the charm of DC’s older neighborhoods.

I own a full-service residential interior design firm, Lindsay Speace Interior Design, and work with clients throughout the DC metro area. I’m a traditionalist at heart, but update my interiors with a wink of color and pattern and always seek to showcase the personality of their owners.

GHT: You mention that you “believe in … the intuitive mixing of eras,” can you give us an example of that?
Lindsay: I think the most successful rooms are layered. Juxtaposing pieces from different eras–a Saarinen dining table paired with antique French chairs for example–keeps things interesting. The saying “opposites attract” is just as true in interior design as in relationships.

GHT: When designing a space, what do you think someone should splurge on?
Lindsay: Three things: upholstery, fabric, and art. Invest in the best quality upholstery you can buy. If the frame is well constructed you’ll have it for years. Fabric gives a room personality and atmosphere and is almost always the jumping off point for me when I’m pulling a design plan together. Art you love will enrich your rooms and your life.

GHT: In contrast to splurging, where can you help a client save money?
Lindsay: It really depends on the client. Everyone’s situation is different and it’s my job to be the best steward of their budget that I can be. For a client with young children an inexpensive natural fiber rug might be a more appropriate choice than an antique oushak.

GHT: Where do you find inspiration?
Lindsay: Absolutely everywhere! The architecture of DC incredibly inspiring, and of course we have no shortage of museums. I especially love the US Botanic Gardens–nature provides the best color palettes. I’m also completely addicted to Instagram!

GHT: What’s your most favorite flea market treasure?
Lindsay: Too many to count! I’ll go with my collection of blue and white ginger jars. We used them as vases for our centerpieces at our wedding which was a special and personal touch.

A Street Project

North Ulhe Project

• ← Scouting in DC
• Spring is Just Around the Corner →