Chances are you have been in a space designed by Ann Parker, even if you don’t live there. Parker Design Studio specializes in residential, hospitality and commercial design. We sat down with Ann to discuss her work and, more importantly, what’s behind it.
How did you get here? And I mean Memphis!
I grew up in Lacrosse, Wisconsin, and there were a few stops before I landed. I graduated with an Interior Design degree from Iowa State. I spent time studying architecture and design in Rome. While in Kansas for drawing school, I met a boy from Mississippi. And we are still in Memphis 25 years later.
I spent twelve years working for the architecture firm LRK (Looney Ricks Kiss) here in town. It was such an incredible place to learn all of the facets of architecture and design. I focused on commercial design work and then started multifamily and historical preservation projects. I had the opportunity to work with Carson Looney on modular Southern Living Idea Houses in Watersound, Florida. In 2008, I decided to start my firm, and I am so grateful for the journey.
You’re known for a thoughtful and original aesthetic. Where do you begin?
It’s not about us – but what our client is looking to achieve. We are really good translators. Or maybe like method acting, when an actress and director are trying to tell someone’s life story. Our whole studio DNA is to challenge ourselves for the next best, balance the edge and trends and elevate our clients’ spaces. We do not produce one style. We are a pure custom studio. There are no repeats, just originals. The common thread is our process; the rest is client-driven and inspired.
How do you split your time between your various business units?
Our client goal is to be 50/50 between Commercial/Hospitality and Residential. We love the mix; it keeps us well-versed in materials and products. Our best practice is to always use materials that have a light earth impact and are truly supportive to the space. Because of exposure and study of commercial spaces, these practices lend themselves to our residential spaces as well.
What defines success in your commercial and hospitality spaces?
People are spending six to eight plus hours in a work environment where productivity is critical. But we also consider comfort, variety, moments for creativity and peace alike. Even providing different ways to work in a space allows for a better work day. It’s all about the output. For hospitality, we want to make sure you stay awhile. We like to test all of your senses with these spaces. We play with the scale of furniture, space and fixture sizes. We layer art and always something unexpected. But we keep programming the key focus.
What is your relationship with color?
LOVE, love, love color! We are not afraid of it ever, but it has its place and is not for every client. Again, we are pure custom, and these are our clients’ spaces, so we help them where they need it. I have some clients who are scared of color – and some who can’t get enough.
For those who are more hesitant, we guide them on how to live with color. Guiding is sometimes known as pushing, but the colorful components are some of the clients’ favorites in the end. For clients who might need restraint, it starts with an education of layering, balance and when to incorporate risks.
You cite the importance of incorporating art, memorabilia and also pieces that your clients collect on travels. How do these influences affect your practice?
This is very important. For example, you interact with a piece of art multiple times a day, even just walking by. It’s a pulse for all of our spaces. It’s about connection. We like to highlight memorabilia and pieces from travel in meaningful ways because the best projects have stories behind them. Stories build an interior and make the spaces last.
What are some pools of inspiration for you?
All things! I can be walking down the street and get inspired by the way a crack in the concrete is filled with grasses, which might inspire a looser, less controlled design for a wall. I find my influences in all things: travel, music and art. Being open – it’s part of the job.
What are some surprising elements you’ve incorporated in projects?
A fish tank in a formal foyer, a secret door to a bathroom – but wait. There was a giant, beloved Pinocchio puppet in the middle of a living room. We embedded it with the appropriate background, furnishings and accessories. The result is a playful but sophisticated room.
Do you have a dream design project?
I am doing them every day. To me, any dream project is one with a legacy, from the Memphis Listening Lab to a family’s farmhouse. I know both will be serving generations to come – that’s a legacy. I am very thankful for all the opportunities and trust given to us so we can do something we truly love.
