Julie Goad spent her childhood in Europe before moving to Nashville when she was 12. Her mother, who worked as a seamstress, had a love of interior design, and together, they quilted, sewed, made draperies, stripped and painted furniture, and hunted for finds in junk stores in Franklin. At a young age, her mother told Julie she knew she would study interior design. “I received a B.S. in interior design and never looked back,” Julie tells us. These days, Julie still lives in Nashville, but instead of quilting and junking, she runs Epiphany Design Studio, a full-service firm and a 3,000-square-foot showroom on Eighth Avenue. Whether you are taking on a home renovation or simply looking for a stunning piece of furniture, Julie is your gal. Known for her impeccable style and eye for finds, she’s an interior designer worthy of a crush. That is why today, we introduce her as our latest Interior Designer Crush!
What is your design aesthetic, and how does it set you apart?
My design aesthetic is classic, livable interiors in any style. We like to reflect the client’s personal style in every house. Making a house a home is what we strive to accomplish with our projects.
How has this aesthetic changed during your career?
My aesthetic is definitely more casual — primitive, more than French.
Can you tell us a bit about your creative process?
We meet with our clients and get a feel for their style. Sometimes it takes several different concepts, but we always say when it’s right, everyone agrees.
What are your predictions for interior design trends?
I believe we are headed back to a more classic style.
How do you incorporate trends in a timeless way?
I integrate the old and the new. There will always be trends in interior design, but looking back to history helps define good versus convenient trends.
What design trend do you wish would go away?
Industrial and repurposed furniture.
What design services do you offer at Epiphany?
Absolutely everything! As a designer, I wanted to be able to find anything I needed for a project; we do just that. I work with my neighbor, Norris Architecture, often. Epiphany offers “From Concept to Completion” — meaning we build and renovate houses and furnish everything down to the last accessory. My passion is designing kitchens, but having a storefront opens the doors to a lot more. We are competitive with online retailers and offer discounts for other professionals.
What is one thing that is found in every Julie Goad project?
Casual, edited elegance
Where do you find design inspiration?
From my clients. I use my knowledge to make their dreams come true. Therefore, every project is different and unique.
Do you have any go-to stores for interior design finds?
Epiphany! Through the store, we have access to everything from vanities, lighting and wallpaper, to fabric, blinds, antiques and bedding. We are competitive with online retailers and can offer an honest opinion about quality and can provide advice on just about everything.
If you could design one person’s home, who would you choose?
Diane Keaton. She seems like a wonderful person and has always had a great aesthetic!
How do you think Nashville’s design scene differs from that of the rest of the country?
Nashville is becoming more sophisticated as we grow.
Will you share one design secret with SB readers?
Try to collect beauty and quality — even if it is used or an antique.
Who have been your industry mentors/role models, and why?
John Saladino. For him, interior design and architecture are equally important, and it shows.
What are three household items you can’t live without?
Slipcovers, Cutco knives and a good gas range
If you could squeeze your design philosophy into five words, what would they be?
Collected, timeless, casual, classic and elegant
Thank you to Julie Goad. Epiphany Design Studio is located at 622 Eighth Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37203.Â
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