Talk Shop: Julie Neill // Julie Neill Designs
ABOUT JULIE
Julie Neill has made quite the splash in the interiors industry over the last decade. As a New Orleans-based lighting designer, Julie knew this was her calling after designing her first piece of custom lighting; since then, her intricate fixtures have inspired many a room (and many a designer!) It is both the art and the craft of creating custom lighting that is her passion and her life’s work. Julie draws each design by hand and oversees the finishing of each piece, which results in a beautiful artisan-made fixture, skillfully crafted and carefully rendered in her New Orleans studio. Each piece is handmade, so every piece is truly unique. Please enjoy the latest installment of our #talkshop series with this talented lighting designer.
Describe your style in three words or less:
Timeless, Welcoming, Feminine
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
Living in the city of New Orleans, the beauty of nature; and the history of art, from the dawn of time to the present.
How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:
I was asked to decorate a room for a designer showhouse and I needed a chandelier to make a statement, so I decided to design a piece and have it made, and the rest is history! My absolute favorite thing about what I do is the creative process which allows me to take ideas that occur in my imagination and make them become a reality. I love drawing and working with interesting materials, and I never tire of creating wonderful fixtures which bring more light into the world.
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
I have had several mentors over the years and the common thread is that they have all believed in my talent and my work ethic which they have encouraged me to develop. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I was given was to focus on my strengths and do what I do best and collaborate with others to round out those parts of the business which I needed help with. I’ve been so grateful to the wonderful people who have mentored me, and I’ve made it a point to help others on their paths to success. It makes me so happy to see others thrive in their businesses!
What does your home say about you:
My house is an ever-evolving story. It’s an iconic New Orleans shotgun-style house, built in 1880 which I have lovingly renovated, making it functional for the way we live while still respecting the historic details of the structure. I have filled it with things that feed my soul and which make for a comfortable and welcoming place to entertain my family and friends.
Where do you find inspiration:
Inspiration is everywhere! I’m endlessly inspired by the beauty of nature, by my exquisite city, by movies and books and by interacting with people. I also get a good bit of inspiration from fabulous things I see in my dreams.
Who are your style icons:
I admire anyone who is confident in their own personal style and has a flair for expressing it.
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
Good lighting, of course! Beautiful fresh flowers, fabulous food, interesting cocktails, an exquisitely set table and dear friends.
Do you collect anything:
I have so many collections! I collect antique engravings, vintage Minton china, architectural fragments, interesting chairs and white pottery, especially the beautiful pieces by my friend Lisa Alpaugh.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:
@ateliervime, @jenkinsinteriors, @getthegusto, @milieumag, and @beataheuman
What design “rule” do you always follow, and which is made to be broken:
I’ve never been able to follow the rules! Where decorating is concerned, if it makes you happy, do it!
What are you working on right now:
I’m constantly drawing new lighting designs and we are currently talking about adding a collection of occasional tables. I have some fabulous new designs coming out with my collection for Visual Comfort which are very exciting!
Wardrobe staples:
Anything black. It’s easy, chic, and always looks good.
Favorite fabric/wallpaper:
There are truly too many wonderful choices to pick just one!
Best interior advice you ever received:
Take it slow and let your style evolve.
Best career advice you ever received:
Believe in yourself and do what you do best and get help with the other parts.
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
Invest in good antiques and art, and if something speaks to you, get it.
Your greatest extravagance:
Quiet time
Favorite places to shop for home:
Art galleries and antique shops.
Most prized possession and why:
My family, because my loved ones are where my heart resides.
Your interiors motto:
Surround yourself with the people and things you cherish.
Your life motto:
Do small things with great love.
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
Be true to yourself and listen to your soul.
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: Salad, especially the Crabmeat salad at Cafe Degas. And Lemon Icebox pie.
Drink: Iced latte
Film: Moonstruck
Hotel: Hotel Peter and Paul, right here in New Orleans
City: I’m blessed to live in the city I love best.
Bedding: My current favorite is antique monogrammed linens from France
Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): I have a large iced latte with whole milk every morning. I also enjoy a cold iced tea with lemon and mint.
Playlist: I’m currently fascinated with instrumental guitar music
Weekend Activity: Antique shopping, dining out, walking in the park with my daughter Isabelle and our dog Jack.
Design Book: Haute Bohemians by Miguel Flores-Vianna