DESIGNER Q&A: TAKE FIVE

LA-born and Nashville-based LAURA THURMAN at home in the world. She brings a global aesthetic filtered through a modern lens to her spaces. Laura’s rooms touch the senses, often the result of mixing old and new, furniture periods and designs, and uncanny sense of color. As Thurman Design Studio principal, Laura is a busy designer with clients throughout the country. Yet, she always makes time to mentor young talent and assume design industry leadership roles, most recently as Style Spotter supreme at the High Point Market.

#1 THINK OF YOUR THREE FAVORITE HIGH POINT SHOWROOMS. WHAT DO THEY SHARE IN COMMON? IT’S OK TO NAME NAMES!

“Texture, Schwung and Blue Ocean Traders. These showrooms share a passion for unique handmade global treasures! They evoke a certain mood and energy that’s exactly what I aim to create in my client home. You can tell these brands take pride not only curating product but how its displayed. Their spaces invite all the senses – from taste (fabulous food), scent (heavenly candles/ incense) to sound (brand-appropriate music). These showrooms are memorable and inspired.” LT

#2 WE KNOW ALL OF YOUR PROJECTS ARE UNIQUE, BUT IN THE SPIRIT OF WHERE’S WALDO, WHAT THING OR PRINCIPLE IS PRESENT IN ALL YOUR WORK?

“I must always have a natural organic touch to my work. This typically translates to something sourced globally and handmade. I love the fresh and new, but you have to interject a little soul into a space. I’m a lover of other cultures. It’s expressed in my work.” LT

#3 YOU’RE SPEAKING TO AN ALIEN CREATURE WHO CAN PERFECTLY UNDERSTAND FACTS BUT NOT FEELINGS. DESCRIBE THE HIGH POINT VIBE.

“High Point is infectious, chaotic and inspiring. I always leave feeling more inspired than when I arrived. The inspiration comes not solely from the beautiful product, but through the time spent with colleagues.” LT

#4 NEXT, YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN A CHANCE TO PLACE THREE ITEMS IN A HIGH POINT TIME CAPSULE TO BE REOPENED IN 100 YEARS. WHAT THREE TANGIBLE ITEMS REPRESENT YOUR HIGH POINT?

“I would choose a fabulous wood-carved bench and dramatic chair – likely from Texture – and the Double Happiness porch swing from Red Egg.” LT

#5 CAREER ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?

“Understand your passion and talent alone will not sustain you or ensure success. You need to have the skills, a thorough knowledge of the industry, and a close-knit tribe. Interior Design is not for the faint of heart. Tough skin and a real passion for human connection along with a desire to beautify are absolute musts!” LT