Interior Designer Abby Landers of A.L Design

From Kara: This highlight is a personal one as Abby Landers has helped me tremendously with interior design!

When Ben and I lived in Boston, the vast majority of our furniture was either gifted to us from our parent’s homes or purchased to fit in an apartment! I was extremely daunted by the task of furnishing a home because I wanted to do so in a responsible, sustainable way.

Let’s face it, there is an overwhelming amount of options online and in store and as a first time home owner, I felt I needed a little direction.

Abby Landers and I sat outside of Greystone in the South End chatting travel, design inspiration and a shared love of vintage furniture. The rest was history!

She has been unbelievably helpful in helping me source vintage pieces, selecting tile and deciding on paint colors for our home. If you’re looking for some help with your own home, I cannot recommend her enough.   

 

What sparked your love for interior design?

My mom has always had a great eye, the way she is able to put together a room, or a house is really incredible to watch. She doesn't have any design background. She's not afraid of being bold or minimal, it's really whatever she is feeling!

I studied Art History in school and really thought I was going to continue with that. I always loved design, so I decided to make the jump and get my Master's of Interior Architecture, I learned so much from my classmates and professors which ultimately opened my eyes to different concepts and ideas.

Of course, travel. I’m really grateful that I have been able to travel all over and absorb different cultures and architecture. 

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How would you describe your style?

An appreciation for the past with a modern twist.

(Kara here…this is exactly how I would describe my own style too!)  

You have the pleasure of traveling the world for design. What’s your favorite place you’ve ever been to? Any favorite pieces you’ve been able to bring home? 

Oh gosh this is so hard! I would have to say Italy. Every time I go over there I come back refreshed with a new design lens.

I am an art history nerd so seeing all of the art and architecture that are hundreds or thousands of years old, it is mind blowing to think how people built these incredible structures, painted the beautiful frescos and hand placed each mosaic, it's incredible!

All my favorite pieces are from flea markets – such as vintage linens, ceramic pots and vases, and little odds and ends that I find along the way. I love finding small local artisans and supporting their businesses.   

Designing on a budget. Do you have any advice for those who are wanting to elevate their spaces but working with a tighter budget?

Shop vintage/antique!

I feel like so many people are afraid of shopping specifically for furniture pieces that are vintage because of the price tag. Yes, there are some places that can be overpriced however, shop yard sales, shop flea markets etc.—there are so many treasures you will find there!

Bonus: every piece has a story, which is what I truly love about purchasing vintage.

Most importantly, enjoy the process. I know it's daunting, but don't be afraid to ask questions and do your research! 

A few favorites….

Favorite accounts or resources for interior design inspiration?  

  • Kathryn Ireland (@kathrynmireland) is a dear friend and renowned interior and textile designer, her love of restoring the old and bringing new life into spaces is inspiring.
  • I know we live in a world of social media (which can be overwhelming!) but I personally love flipping through design books and magazines which refreshes and inspires me.
  • Devol Kitchens (@devolkitchens) are simply beautiful and timeless.
  • Kathy Marshall Design (@kathymarshalldesign) another dear friend who has a love for old homes and restoring them while giving a nod to the past.
  • Karu Design (@karu.design) is a Florence-based design firm led by Melanié Murata. I love her outlook on design, “believing that luxury is being able to see how things are made and that sustainability is defined by the idea of buying well once, uncompromisingly crafted heirloom pieces that can be passed down from generation to generation.” I think that this is incredibly important to remember when starting the design process and while selecting pieces for your home. 
 
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