Interiors

Design Direction: Start With Art - Adding a Pop of Color to Your Living Room with Jill White

byTeam GM

4 years ago

Few things look quite as chic as perfectly balanced black and white interiors. When you can master adding a few pops of color here and there… even better. We love how Jill White added some color to the space with plants and accessories, and, of course, art! The colors in Neon Umbrellas, Vertical are vibrant enough to make a statement without completely stealing the show from the rest of the beautiful decor. Keep reading for all of Jill’s tips and some major design inspo...

Hi, my name’s Jill. I grew up in rural Arkansas. My maternal family are crop farmers and my paternal family were in the construction business. I graduated with a Bachelors in Interior Design from the University of Arkansas in 2009. I started working for a California architecture firm, Perkowitz and Ruth, immediately upon graduation. I then switched cities and firms and began working with Taylor Kempkes Architects. In 2012, I had my daughter, Stella, and decided I would try my hand at having my own firm. Jill White Designs was officially official in 2014. I have been going full force since. I work on both residential and commercial projects. I have done it all! A Boutique Hotel, medical offices, including eye clinics, dental offices, gyms, new construction and remodeled homes, condominiums, and the like from 10,000 square feet down to 900 square feet.

How would you define your interior design style?

I have a penchant for strong patterns, abstract art, high-contrast styles, and forward-thinking designs; especially black and white! I am known to create eclectic, modern spaces for families of all types.

Accent Table | Pillow Fabric | Rug | Table Lamp | Cocktail Table | Accessories | Drapery

What drew you to Neon Umbrellas Vertical from Gray's À la Plage series?

I am a HUGE GM fan!!! The beach shots and Parker Hotel series are among my favorites! The bold color, patterns, shapes, and objects in Neon Umbrellas are the epitome of GM and what attract me to his work. I literally want to be there in the middle of this colorful party and perfect water. I think being in Arkansas, I crave this scene.

What did you pick out as the most important elements of the print to incorporate into the space?

Contrast and coastal vibes were the main two elements that I wanted to highlight.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who wants to design a space and start with art?

Choose a piece that speaks to YOU. What inspires you? What does this piece make you feel? My grandmother was a antique dealer. She traveled the world to find art and antiques. She took me to buy my first piece of art when I was in high school. She made me tell her why I liked it before she would buy it. As an adult with over 50 pieces of original art in my 1200 square foot home, I can tell you the reason I purchased each one (& yes, that first piece my grandmother purchased for me is still in my home! Neon Umbrellas is the perfect addition to my collection!!

Feeling inspired to refresh a space in your home? A new piece of art will probably do just the trick! Head to graymalin.com to get started. Keep up to date with Jill on Instagram and her website.

Cheers!

Team GM

Photography: Sarah Oden