The Wren, Arizona
Project - The Wren
Location - Waddell, Arizona
Product Used - HW16413 Amalgama, HW16013 Amalgama
Designer - Randi Garrett
Architect - Steve Simpson
Developer - Jada Homes
Photographer - Randi Garrett
In this Q&A, we hear from designer Randi Garrett, best known for her creative tips on everything from home décor to entertainment, fashion, and lifestyle on Instagram.
How did you first hear about Havwoods, how is it different from the other wood floor companies you searched for?
"I discovered Havwoods online while searching for the perfect European Oak flooring for our home. I loved that Havwoods offered straight and herringbone patterns in the same color wood allowing the flooring in our home to blend seamlessly."
Can you tell/talk me through your virtual experience of choosing the perfect floor?
"Havwoods has a virtual feature that allows you to visualize the wood in your space. This feature helped me narrow my choices to a few options. My rep then sent me samples to try in our home. I loved being able to see and feel each wood in our space."
Do you think your southern roots are reflected in your home design?
"Absolutely! Southern homes are rich with character, charm and of course lots of trim detail. When designing our home, The Wren, I was very intentional in adding many layers to each space. These details made each space feel like it could be found in a historic southern home."
What’s a current home design trend that you are loving? Have you applied it to your homestyle?
"To be honest, I am not a fan of decorating with the trends. Rather, I believe that when designing your home, it should be a reflection on you and those who live there. Your unique personality should shine through the walls. Instead of embracing the latest trends, I love to embrace timeless design elements then add a pop of personality to the space through lighting and accessories. Mixing modern elements with traditional design is my favorite way to give a space some pizzaz! The bones of The Wren are very traditional in nature, I had lots fun mixing things up with more modern lighting. Our lighting is all very transitional in style. Blended with the traditional elements of each space gives our home current, yet timeless feel."
What made you choose our Amalgama flooring? What do you love most about it?
"Amalgama is a timeless, warm finish that gave each space a light and airy feeling while remaining cozy. The finish really invoked a sense of calmness that felt like home to me. Its neutral tone blended so beautifully with the many different marble and limestone elements in The Wren."
How would you describe the design style of your home?
"It’s a mixture of Traditional, French Glam elements."
How did your love for design begin in the first place?
"I have loved design since I was a little girl. My sister and I would set up homes for our Barbies and play for hours. My sister always complained that I spent all the time setting up and no time actually, playing. My grandma and mother both love design as well. Design just flows through my blood."
What is a personal life motto or quote you live by?
"Be kind to everyone you meet. You never know what hard battles they are facing."
What was your favorite space to design?
"Bedrooms! I love, love, love the layers of pattern and texture you can add to a bed. Mixing fabric and patterns is one of my favorite elements of design."
How have you maintained your floors to be in mint condition?
"Vacuum daily and mop once a week. We don’t typically wear shoes in our home either. It’s been almost a year since we have moved into The Wren. I plan to condition the wood in the next few weeks to keep it looking its best."
You also selected our Amalgama Herringbone, what made you choose two patterns?
"In historic, French homes (my personal favorite), you will find a blend of patterns. It’s one way to have each room tell its own story. I love this charming, french detail and wanted to incorporate this into our home."
If you were to choose only between herringbone or plank, which one would you choose?
"If I had to choose just one pattern, I would select the plank. Herringbone can look too busy, in my opinion, when it is laid in an entire home. Splashes of Herringbone is my preference."
Do you look up to any other interior designers?
"Yes of course! Suzanne Kasler and Thomas Pheasant are a few of my favorite designers. Their styles both blend traditional elements with clean modern lines, brilliantly!"
Where do you pull design inspiration from?
"Everywhere! Inspiration is all around us! Nature, architecture and fashion to name a few. When I want to be inspired for a project, I usually turn to my favorite design books to spark an idea."
How would you describe your style?
"Livable luxury. We have 5 children and 2 dogs. Our home is very lived in. I believe you don’t have to sacrifice design for functionality. Purchase pieces that have durable elements. They cost a little more, but will stand the test of life!"
Would you recommend Amalgama to your friends or followers?
"100%! We couldn’t be happier with the gorgeous wood in our home!"