When I first heard the term ‘grandmillenial’ around 2 years ago, I instantly felt at home. This maximalist design style with rich colors and patterns seemed like the perfect way to label my style. Heavy on color, texture, and ALL of the chinoserie (a favorite of mine since my own grandmother introduced it to me). We had recently purchased our first home and I was on the lookout for any and all things traditional ‘granny chic.’ After digging and digging for the perfect designers for inspiration, I’ve encapsulated five of my favorites so you don’t have to stalk every design book at Barnes & Noble (you’re welcome). Introducing my favorite traditional/southern/maximalist/grandmillenial designers. I hope you find the same magical inspo I did!
1. James T. Farmer (My Fave!)
James Farmer hails from the small town of Perry, Georgia. After attending Auburn University, James returned to Perry and gradually built up what is now a very successful design firm. He is regularly a guest editor in Southern Living, and has become a celebrated author, writing Celebrating Home: A Time for Every Season, Arriving Home: A Gracious Southern Welcome, and A Place to Call Home, just to name a few. (I have all of these books and they are COVERED in inspiration post-its.)
Why I love James: Farmer refers to his interior design style as ‘unapologetically Southern’ and that is exactly what he accomplishes. Using a rich blend of patterns, textures, and antiques, he creates a bright and fresh space while maintaining all of the tradition and charm of Southern design. James Farmer also does a wonderful job of mixing feminine and masculine elements to create a room anyone would feel at home in. This is especially important to me in grandmillenial design, as I have a husband that prefers ‘nothing too frilly.’
2. Maggie Griffin
Another Southerner, Maggie hails from Gainesville, Georgia. Maggie earned a degree in Furnishings and Interiors from the University of Georgia and then opened her own design firm. She masters the art of Southern style with modern updates.
Why I love Maggie: Two words. Adorable prints! Maggie Griffin’s designs always have the best accent fabrics that add a unique flair to a buttoned up room. Maggie’s design is a bit simpler than some of the designers on this list, so her design is a great way to dip your toe into the pool of grandmillenial design without ending up with too much going on in your space.
3. Mark D. Sikes
First of all, the resume speaks for itself. Taking projects from all of the United States (including the WHITE HOUSE), Mark D. Sikes is basically the father of traditional American design. A member of the AD100 in 2021 and 2022, Sikes is definitely someone you should follow if you love any hint of traditional design.
Why I love Mark: See above where I stated that he is the father of traditional American design. Mark D. Sikes has a flair for mixing patterns and textures in a way that looks effortlessly chic and wonderfully comfortable. He masters the formal setting while still making a home look cozy and livable. His style is perfectly illustrated in his books, Beautiful: All American Decorating and Timeless Style and More Beautiful: All American Decoration. Not only are these loaded with inspo but they make wonderful coffee table books. Also, added bonus he has tons of collabs that you can shop (including Anthropologie AND Schumacher fabrics!!).
4. Melissa Rufty
Again with the southern designers (I just can’t help myself). Rufty hails from New Orleans, Louisiana and has mastered the art of southern flair. Her styles are very versatile and pull from a variety of inspiration, including Greek Revival, Mid Century Modern, Traditional.
Why I love Melissa: Rufty’s designs exude playful elegance while somehow maintaining a warm and welcoming ‘homey’ look. She’s not afraid to use bold color and makes it look effortless. Her designs radiate bold femininity with modern touches and fresh plants that bring in warmth. Rufty’s designs are definitely bold and almost have a modern touch. Perfect for the grandmillenial who has a soft spot for more modern design!
5. Ashley Whittaker
Ashley Whittaker is a New York designer who identifies her design style as ‘Neo-traditionalist.’ After doing special events for Ralph Lauren, Ashley specializes in interiors within New York. She creates tailored spaces that are the perfect mix of timeless elegance and chic finishing touches.
Why I love Ashley: Ashley’s designs scream upscale luxury. I love the mix of patterns and textures and the light and airy flow of all of the rooms. Ashley is not afraid to use pops of color but uses them in a subtle way that is perfect for someone just entering into the world of grandmillenial style. Her rooms are approachable and attainable while still looking and feeling like luxury.
