Today I am over the moon excited to introduce you to one of my very favorites, Parker Kennedy Living!

This design duo first popped on my radar when I discovered their fabulous Instagram account. (Seriously, go check it out!) Parker Kennedy is based in Atlanta and made up of designers Lance Jackson and David Ecton.  These two specialize in both residential and commercial design.  Below, Lance answers a few questions.

Where did the name Parker Kennedy Living come from?

The name Parker Kennedy Living was developed on a trip David and I took to Beverly Hills and Palm Springs back in 2008.  These were our bar names when we were on the trip. Mine was Trevor Kennedy and David’s was Parker Allen.  We came up with these names to give to people when we didn’t want to give them our phone numbers.  When we started the company in 2011, David and I were racking our brains to come up with a great name. David said what about “Parker Kennedy” and I said that is it! The rest is history. It is kinda “Remington Steal.” Everyone thinks there is a true Parker Kennedy person and always calls for him. That was not our intent.  We love the name and are very happy that we went with it.

When and why did you decide to become a designer?

I decided to become a designer at a very early age. Probably around 10 years old. I knew I was creative and wanted to do architecture, jewelry design or fashion design. I was accepted to SCAD Savannah and in the architecture program and knew within 2 quarters I was supposed to be doing interior design. I quickly changed my major to interior design.

What has been your greatest challenge as a designer?

I worked so hard for so many years under other designers and firms, always wanting to do my own look and style. I finally got there at 40. That was my biggest challenge: to finally be out on my own.

Parker Kennedy Living is made up of two partners.  What is the biggest challenge in working with a partner?  What is the greatest advantage?

The biggest advantage of working with my partner David here at PKL is that we always have each other’s back on design decisions and the company’s direction in general. The greatest challenge is that we can’t always travel on projects together, because we work better and more in sync when we are traveling on projects together.

How would you characterize your style?

Our style is Southern Regency, Preppy On The Edge, and Palm Beach Chic.

Does your personal home fit your design style?

Yes, our personal home reflects our style. We are in the middle of renovations.

How has living in Atlanta influenced the way you decorate?

I grew up in Atlanta so it heavily influences my decorating. I was surrounded by classic, traditional decorating as a child. I still incorporate classic design elements into our decorating with a more modern, fresher approach by using lucite pieces, lacquered pieces, and texture to make a southern traditional look updated and fresh.

What was the focus of your first paid design project?

Color and more color was the focus on our first paid design job.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Jewelry, fabrics, wall coverings, and natural textures like sand, turquoise stones, and bark on trees is where I find a lot of inspiration.

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

GO BIG OR GO HOME!

Who has been your greatest professional influence?

Lilly Pulitzer, Tory Burch, and David Hicks.

What is your favorite design era?

The 60’s for the ground breaking design ideas. So much came out of the 60’s: David Hicks, Billy Baldwin, and many more.

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All photos via Parker Kennedy Living.