Talk Shop: Liz Williams // LIZ WILLIAMS INTERIORS
ABOUT LIZ WILLIAMS
Liz Williams Interiors is a full-service interior design firm specializing in creating classic, timeless residential living spaces. After gaining valuable experience at Carter Kay Interiors, Liz Williams launched her own design firm in 1998, bringing her passion for elegance and functionality to clients across the Southeast and beyond.
Liz’s work has garnered numerous accolades, including three wins in the Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Annual Bath Contest. She has been featured in publications such as Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles, Better Homes and Gardens, and Cottage Style. Recognized as a rising talent early in her career, Liz was highlighted in Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles' “20 Under 40” and “Six Young Designers Worth Watching.” Her designs grace homes in Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, and New York, blending sophistication with a warm, welcoming aesthetic.
Photo by Emily Followill
Describe your style in three words or less:
Classic, Collected, Refined
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
I think growing up in the South has been a big influence on my aesthetic. I grew up in Atlanta in a traditional home full of antiques and art. I went to the College of Charleston and fell in love with the city’s history and architecture. Ever since I can remember, I have studied shelter magazines, which have had a great influence on me as well.
How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:
When I was about to have my first child (27 years ago!), I knew I needed to make a decision about whether to stay in my current position at Carter Kay or take the leap and start my own firm. One benefit of striking out on your own is making your own schedule, so that is what I did. I started with a few friends and neighbors and, luckily, kept the ball rolling all of these years. I love almost every aspect of interior design and every day is different. That said, my favorite part is the fabric!
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
My start in interior design began at Carter Kay Interiors. I worked for Carter for five years and learned so much about the day-to-day of being a designer, as well as best practices. It was an invaluable experience and she has since been a great supporter of mine.
Photo by Emily Followill
What does your home say about you:
Your home speaks to your personality, offering insights into what brings you comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging.
Where do you find inspiration:
I find inspiration through travel, Instagram, design books, and magazines.
Who are your style icons:
My style icons are Bunny Williams, Suzanne Rheinstein, and Charlotte Moss.
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
I love to mix all kinds of tabletop elements for a fabulous table setting. My advice is to splurge on flowers!
Do you collect anything:
I have a collection of antique white ironstone pieces that are displayed in built-in corner cabinets in my dining room. The white silhouettes pop against the chartreuse backs of the shelves. I have also recently started a collection of antique oyster plates.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:
@katierosenfeld, @katieridderinc, and @matthewcarterinteriors.
What design “rule” do you always follow, and which is made to be broken:
Follow: Functionality first, a room needs to be functional above all else or the rest will not matter.
Break: Symmetry, sometimes you need it, sometimes you don’t!
What are you working on right now:
Several local projects; an update in Pennsylvania, lake houses in Georgia and Alabama, a historic cabin redo in rural Georgia, as well as a space in the Southeastern Designer Showhouse that opens in Spring 2025.
Wardrobe staples:
Anything from Ann Mashburn is my go-to for timeless pieces that I will cherish for years to come.
Favorite fabric/wallpaper:
So many, but anything from Brunschwig & Fils is always a favorite!
Photo by Emily Followill
Best interior advice you ever received:
Not every element of a room needs to be “the star,” some pieces can play supporting roles.
Best career advice you ever received:
Stick with it! It can be feast or famine in this business, but ride it out the best you can and you will be ready for what’s around the corner.
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
Invest in lighting, art, and quality upholstery. Save on accessories and rugs (sisal now and oriental later).
Your greatest extravagance:
Travel and fine hotels.
Favorite places to shop for home:
In addition to the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center (ADAC), our design center, I like to shop at some of our local stores like Webb-Marstellar, Huff-Harrington, Foxglove Antiques, Edgar-Reeves Lampshades, and Erika Reade Ltd.
Photo by Emily Followill
Most prized possession and why:
An English secretary with beautiful inlay dating back to 1790 that I inherited when my mother downsized. I grew up with this piece in our living room and always loved all the small drawers and cubbies inside. It is now a great addition to our living room.
Your interiors motto:
Design spaces that inspire, comfort, and reflect the people who live there.
Your life motto:
Learn from every experience.
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
Tear out pages of your favorite rooms from magazines, Pin your favorites on Pinterest, and explore Instagram. Try to find a common thread within all of the things you love!
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: Italian
Drink: Red wine
Film: Something’s Gotta Give
Hotel: The Whitby Hotel in New York City
City: It's a toss-up between New York City and Charleston. Luckily, I have a daughter living in each city!
Bedding: Matouk
Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): Coffee: A Latte
Playlist: Yacht Rock or Country
Weekend Activity: Eating out, traveling, spending time with our three grown children (when they are home), and our two Labrador Retrievers!
Design Book: So many! Lately Life in the Garden by Bunny Williams.