Anne Pulliam’s Stately Southern Spaces

Based in Virginia, Anne Pulliam knows her way around historic (and new) homes. From Richmond to Washington, D.C. to New York, the interior designer specializes in renovations and restorations along the East Coast. A fan of stately vintage spaces, she shares her Chairish favorites.

SHOP ANNE PULLIAM’S CHAIRISH FAVORITES >>>

How would you describe your personal aesthetic, and your overall approach to designing interiors?

My personal aesthetic is unexpected and colorful with a traditional twist. My overall approach to design always begins with the client. What colors are they drawn to and what textures, patterns, and materials they are excited about. We spend a fair amount of time in the inspiration phase with each of our clients to really understand what design elements make them tick.

Living in Richmond, Virginia, and working in the Washington, D.C. area, you’re surrounded by rich historical architecture and homes. How has that influenced your interiors?

Oh, more than I can even articulate! I grew up in a beautiful part of Richmond surrounded by older homes with creaky floors and quirky corners. Ever since I can remember, I have been obsessed with old homes and the patina that each of them carries. My Mom and Grandmother’s homes were filled with beautiful antiques, which undoubtedly planted the seed of a love for vintage, well made, and beautiful pieces.

Tell us about your approach to vintage and antique finds. How do you like to incorporate vintage into your projects?

During our inspiration phase with each client, one of the first things we always ask is if they have any heirloom pieces that they would like to incorporate in the design. We ALWAYS find a way to make that happen and celebrate when we can incorporate a family heirloom. Oftentimes, clients don’t have antiques but lean on our team to source for them. My recipe for a perfectly balanced room always includes new furniture as well as an antique piece. The juxtaposition of new and old helps bring balance and make the room sing!

What eras or icons of vintage furniture design are you most drawn to and why?

Personally I am really drawn to 18th century French and mid-century modern pieces. And often times in the same room… the contrast between the two time periods is magical.  

Name 3 trends / products / or styles you LOVE and 3 you HATE.

LOVE: Splatterware, color drenching, and British whimsy. 

HATE: Accent walls, brushed brass, open concept homes.

I love color drenching. It is one of the most cost effective ways to really transform a room. Whether you do it just with paint or with a mix of paint and wallpaper the entire tone of a space can change in an instant!

What do you find most compelling about Chairish?  

The accessibility it allows designers and clients alike to source antiques as if they are on a trip around the world.

How does sustainability factor into your design choices and love of vintage? 

Often many of my clients have inherited pieces from a loved one. Rather than finding something that is new and “trendy” I love incorporating pieces that already exist and occupy a practical, emotional and sustainable purpose.

A FEW DESIGN FAVORITES

Favorite way to create a statement-making moment in a room?  Color drenching! Or a huge piece of art.

Favorite paint color? Farrow & Ball, Brinjal.

Favorite piece of decor in your home? I can’t pick…vintage verdigris candle sconces from a Paris antique market OR the antique gilt mirror that belonged to my great grandmother.

Favorite style icon? Beata Hueman.

Design destination every creative should visit at least once? Paul Berte Serpette market in Paris.

A FEW LIFESTYLE FAVORITES

Favorite historic place to visit? Paris or Charleston.

Favorite host (or thank you) gift? High camp supply gardenias.

Favorite vacation destination? Harbor Island with friends and Montana with my family. 

Favorite flower? Dahlia.

Favorite entertaining essential? Ambient lighting.

Lead Image: Interior Design by Anne Pulliam, Photography by Stacy Zarin Goldberg.