Talk Shop: Brooke Ray // Locust Lane
ABOUT BROOKE
An Alabama native, Brooke Ray discovered her passion for interior design while remodeling her family’s historic home in Huntsville. It was during this process that Ray became frustrated with the online rug shopping experience, since she couldn’t find exactly what she was looking for. She started to work with artisans around the globe to customize rugs, and fell in love with the creative process. And so, Locust Lane was born.
Founded in 2021, Locust Lane brings Ray’s signature classic-with-a-twist style and lasting pieces to elevate your space. So whether it’s a handmade piece or a customized creation, Ray hopes that the brand can provide that heirloom quality for everyone. We loved hearing about Ray’s start, and where her inspirations come from in our latest installment of our Talk Shop series.
Describe your style in three words or less:
Minimal, timeless, refined.
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
My mom, my countless interior design coffee table books, and travel.
How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:
Amidst the chaos of renovating our historic home, I was buzzing with excitement as we approached the furnishing stage. However, I hit a snag when it came to finding the perfect rug. Hours of scrolling through websites left me frustrated and unsure because I couldn’t quite nail down the true colors of those handcrafted beauties on my computer screen.
Fed up with the guesswork, I decided to take matters into my own hands. That’s when the idea for Locust Lane popped into my head. I wanted to solve my own decorating dilemma and help others facing the same struggle. So, we pioneered our True to Hue Benjamin Moore paint matching program. Now, whether you’re just around the corner or miles away, you can grab a paint deck, see how a rug’s colors will mesh in your own space , and finally make that confident decision you’ve been longing for.
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
I don’t have a mentor per se, but I have definitely learned a lot from different experiences and the people I’ve encountered along the way.
What does your home say about you:
My home reflects a beautiful blend of family warmth, and Southern charm.
Where do you find inspiration:
I find inspiration everywhere! Whether it’s scrolling Instagram, admiring art, exploring historic buildings,or admiring the craftsmanship of hand-painted floors from the past.
Who are your style icons:
Caroline Besette Kennedy, Carine Roitfeld and Larissa Mills
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
The perfect guest list, good lighting, and a heavy pour!
Do you collect anything:
I collect Rose Medallion China and original art. The rose medallion collection started with my girlfriend’s mother, so it’s a sentimental tradition.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:
There are so many! @jyoungdesignhouse, @homeworthy, @collins_interiors, and @jenkinsinteriors.
What design “rule” do you always follow, and which is made to be broken:
I always stick to the rule of balance in my designs, making sure everything fits together nicely. But when it comes to symmetry, I like to break that rule on occasion.
What are you working on right now:
We are currently putting together color combinations for an outdoor collection launching in Spring.
Wardrobe staples:
My signature diamond necklace, jeans, a crisp button down shirt paired with a great pair of jeans.
Favorite fabric/wallpaper:
Cowtan and Tout fabric and Schumacher wallpaper.
Best interior advice you ever received:
Buy right the first time and you will only cry once!
Best career advice you ever received:
I recently heard this on a podcast and it really resonated with me, “Go for being respected first and liked second. “
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
Invest in handcrafted wool rugs, original art and antiques. Save on pillows and accessories.
Your greatest extravagance:
My greatest extravagance is probably investing in high-quality experiences, like traveling to new places or indulging in memorable meals with loved ones.
Favorite places to shop for home:
Estate sales are fantastic for unique finds! They have the perfect blend of history and character.
Most prized possession and why:
My diamond necklace, with my 3 kid’s initials, is super special to me. It was a birthday gift from my mom, who repurposed her diamonds from another piece to border the initials in a uniquely beautiful way.
Your interiors motto:
Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love.
Your life motto:
Embrace every moment, learn from every experience.
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
I would say be true to your own aesthetic.
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: Rare burger with blue cheese
Drink: Coke Cherry Zero
Film: The Holiday
Hotel: Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley
City: Paris
Bedding: Legna Linens
Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): Coffee with a splash of half & half and stevia
Playlist: Nancy Meyers’ playlist on Spotify
Weekend Activity: I’m all about spending quality time with family and catching up with friends over a nice dinner.
Design Book: I am currently loving The Joy of Home by Ashley Gilbreath.