Nonsense & Sensibility – Linde Browning Design

decor04.30.2012

Linde’s hand painted Union Jack dresser – a must for Downton Abbey fans!

Today, I am excited to share an interview with Linde Giddens of Linde Browning Design in Dallas, Texas. Linde’s pieces are simply beautiful and very artfully done. From nursery walls, to hand painted tile, kitchen cabinets, fireplace mantles, furniture pieces, and more – Linde’s creativity is far-reaching in the realm of design and custom painting! Linde hand painted a large hutch for me this past fall and I’m absolutely in love with it. It’s amazing how one single piece and just a coat of paint can change the feel of a room entirely. And, how great is her Union Jack dresser above? Love!

N/S: When did your love for painting begin?

LBD: My mom is quite creative, so I don’t really remember I time when I didn’t love painting or creating in some fashion.

N/S: Ddi you always know you wanted to be an artist?

LBD: I wasn’t positive what I wanted to do when I headed off to college. I didn’t have any formal art training at that point, but I knew I loved both children and painting. Eventually, this lead to custom painting in residential interiors while specializing in juvenile, children’s, and baby design as well as hand painted furniture.

N/S: Do you paint canvases as well?

LBD: I actually majored in Fine Art in college. All of my formal training is on canvas or other various surfaces. I loved the idea of making art move off the canvas and into people’s lives (and into the environments where they actually lived). Painting in residential interiors and furniture allowed me to accomplish the goal of creating art that people both interacted and lived with.

Union Jack dresser by Linde

my hand painted hutch by Linde

mirror painted by Linde

mirror by Linde

N/S: Who are some of your own inspirations?

LBD: I love mixed media and modern art. Some of my favorite artists include Frank Stella and Claus Oldenburg’s drawings and soft sculptures. Honestly, I could go on and on, so I will stop at two well-known artists.

N/S: Where do you find your creativity and inspiration for your projects? Any favorite magazines or blogs?

LBD: I draw inspiration from textiles and architecture. I also do enjoy looking through great magazines or blogs for color inspiration. Recently, I’ve fallen in love with Lonny magazine.

N/S: What has been your most rewarding project and why?

LBD: Creating all of my nephews’ nurseries has been, by far, my most rewarding experience. Getting to create an environment for them to enjoy before they arrive is absolutely amazing! I get to pray and dream for them, while creating a cozy little space specifically for them! It is wonderful.

N/S: Do you have a favorite project? What made it so special?

LBD: My very first nephew’s room was an experience I will never forget. My sister does not find out the gender of her children. However, she wants the perfect gender specific room for her little one, upon arrival. I am the only person outside of the sonogram technician that gets to know the sex of her babies. Upon finding out the gender, I get to create the perfect space for her little one, while she wonders what is waiting behind the door. It is every bit as exciting as it sounds! Avery Blake, my older nephew, made me an aunt. Creating his room will always be one of my very favorite experiences.

nightstands by Linde

fireplace screen painted by Linde

porch walls painted by Linde

nursery walls by Linde

N/S: What is the best way to decipher a DIY project to one in which an individual should consult a professional?

LBD: There are tenants of design that come with training and years of practice and experience. I would never discourage anyone from experiencing art on his or her own; however, the benefit of adding a professional, is that it takes your dream to the next level.

N/S: How would you describe your own style and preferences when it comes to interiors?

LBD: I am a modern girl all the way. As my design taste has grown and evolved, I continue to fall more in love with tenants of modern design. I love all things clean and streamlined, with intentional bursts of color.

N/S: What are some of the most popular paint colors and requests you seem to be getting lately? Any trends you’d like to share?

LBD: Everyone seems to be on a gray kick. I can’t say I blame them. I’ve also loved the surge of metallics and bold colors.

child’s table & chairs by Linde

walls and tiled floor by Linde

hutch by Linde

N/S: What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone hoping to personalize a room and make it unique?

LBD: My best advice is to go with your gut! Often, clients create what they think they should like or what others like. The clients that seem the happiest are the ones that have the courage to create a space that they love.

N/S: Where would you like to see your business in 5-10 years?

LBD: In 5-10 years, I’d love to be the go-to-gal for fabulous custom nurseries, interior spaces, and hand painted furniture. I have found what I love to do. I hope to do this far beyond 5-10 years!