Home | Mar. 2023
GROUNDED DESIGN
By Kemmie Ryan
Photography by Katrina Wittkamp
Emily Mackie
A Texas native who grew up surrounded by creativity, Emily Mackie is no stranger to creating her own entrepreneur path. Emily’s irreverent and experiential approach to interiors design is her hallmark at her Wilmette-based luxury design firm, Inspired Interiors. With projects spanning the nation, Emily’s brand now includes Inspired Luxury Homes, a custom home building company. She is breaking barriers with her female-led business in a traditionally male-dominated industry with her unparalleled eye for design and attention to detail.
How would you describe your design style?
Imaginative, cheeky, original and adventurous
How do you begin the design process?
By getting a 360-degree understanding of clients’ needs, goals, wish list, and dreams.
What sets you apart from your competition?
My love for art and design is equal to that of my love for spreadsheets and processes.
Who inspires you right now?
All my fellow female founders! I network in a group of female CEOs founded by my friend Courtney Wright (see Lady Boss Podcast on YouTube). The journeys of all the female founders always inspires me.
Design trends are you most excited about in 2023?
One, how many ways can I hide LEDs to illuminate a space; two, plumbing and electrical products that have voice-activated technology (I finally don’t have to learn all the buttons!); and three, window treatments made from woven metal—or anything from woven metal!
Best thing about 2022?
Personally—all the milestones my three children hit. They are my world and they constantly inspire me. Professionally—many fabulous new clients that I love, several big awards, and finishing a five-year-long San Francisco project!
Most looking forward to in 2023?
Finishing ‘The Art of Living Show House’ in Wilmette in April/May. After it is over—a culmination of two years of VERY hard work—don’t try to find me. I will be on a remote beach with countless piña coladas!
For more information on Inspired Interiors & Inspired Luxury Homes, call 773-728-0419 or visit inspiredinteriors.com or inspiredluxuryhomes.com.
