It’s time for another Interview With The Designer! Today I’m chatting with Cortney of Cortney Bishop Design out of Charleston, SC. Cortney’s range is pretty incredible. She can do mid century modern, beachy bohemian, traditional rustic…the list goes on and on. Cortney’s love of art, travel, fashion and music shine through in her stylish spaces. I can’t wait for you to get to know her!

Cortney also just launched a brand new website and, as you would guess, it’s gorgeous! Be sure to stop by and say hello!

When and why did you decide to become a designer?

In 2000 I was a newlywed and ready to dive into my creativity after leaving my job in resort development.  My mother was an established interior designer in Atlanta and we shared a love for fashion, art, and textiles over the years. My grandmother was a beautiful seamstress and embroiderer. Interior design felt like something I could really dive into with passion and excitement for all the things I loved, even music.  It seemed to combine all the things I felt connected to.

What has been your greatest challenge as a designer?

I think the greatest challenge has been finding a balance.  I have a beautiful husband and children who respect my work ethic and passion.  I can get really wrapped up in the art of design so it can be difficult to balance my time.

How would you characterize your style?

I have many shades of style, but over the years my style has become more refined.  All of our projects are different—there is no true stamp of style, just refined with a nod in one direction.  I love to mix the classic old world with the sharp modern. I am drawn to black for its contrast and edge.

Does your personal home fit your design style?

I think it suits many layers of my personality.  The bohemian, the mother, the modern art collector, the music lover, the coastal landscape, but there are many more sides I would love to explore personally…this is why I am in this business!

How does living in Charleston influence the way you decorate?

Wow, great question. Charleston has gone through its own renaissance over the last 5 years.  We have gone from Southern traditional to Southern hip and the influences here have been profound to the local design industry.  The landscape and culture are why we live here – it all translates into the work.

What was the focus of your first paid design project?

The first real test was in Knoxville, TN when I started my first company with a close friend and very talented designer in town. She was in Russia for the summer and we received a call to renovate a 1950’s chopped up two story house into a sleek modern party house for a movie executive.  I was terrified during the first three interviews.  Then I realized the owner and I shared a passion for the same band so I gave him a box of soundboard live concert CDs and I got the job!! There is something to be said for being thrown into the fire….it was a wonderful learning experience and gave me the confidence I needed to make this my career.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Oh goodness, everywhere.  I am one of those happy morning people who believes God is behind every mastermind.  We just have to be open to receive.

What is the best advice you’ve received?

My father was an incredible businessman and my cherished adviser until his recent passing.  He always encouraged me to join him on his business trips.  I learned from him the value of hard work.  You only get out what you put in.

Who has been your greatest professional influence?

My father, no question.

What is your favorite design era and why?

If I I had to choose, I would say authentic Italian Art Deco. It’s the warmth and richness of the glossy woods mixed with black.  I am drawn to masculine design.   The real beauty is in the new era, where we are mixing a bit of it all!

What is your dream design project?

To design my dream home with a view of the marsh.

What do you have coming up next?

We are designing a handful of incredible homes right now, all with different building materials and architectural styles.  I am super excited about the historical farm in Virginia that is incorporating a silo onto the property for family living.  Another one is my first true new build on The Battery in Charleston.  What an incredible opportunity it is to build something on one of the most historical streets in the country!  I feel so blessed to be able to collaborate with these incredible families and architects.  I love my job!!

Website • Instagram • Facebook • Twitter • Pinterest

All photos via Cortney Bishop Design.