The Colorful & Eclectic Designs of Natalie Papier

Natalie Papier has had a lifelong love of all eclectic and colorful things. So, when she founded her interior design firm Home Ec., it was based on the philosophy that “homes should be a reflection of the people who live in them, full of life, color, character, and warmth.”

As lead designer on the Magnolia Network show Artfully Designed, Papier shares her bold and playful designs with the world. Indeed, she also has a reputation for her unapologetically out-of-the-box style. Starting with her career beginnings in Chicagoland, Papier has never been the designer you’d call for anything bland and boring. Now designing in Charlotte, NC, her portfolio stands “in defiance of all things beige and cookie-cutter” and has become known for her unique use of colorful wallpaper, eclectic art, and funky texture. 

An artist herself, Papier is a firm believer in supporting local art, and much of her interior design centers around the character of art pieces in the community. Her early exposure to art sharpened her keen eye for unique pieces and unconventional design. Natalie loves to collaborate with artists, designers, and makers to add life to the spaces she creates.

The Pool House Project

This space began as a garage with the concept of converting it into a kitchenette, living, and bathroom area. The area would be used to accommodate the pool, and so required storage for towels, a food and drink prep area, and a relaxing space.

Regarding the style, Papier said "...when I think pool house vibes, I automatically think retro Mid-century modern with-a-twist…” This inspired a vision for the space that extended throughout.

She also saw an opportunity to use a thrifted, vintage piece-turned-vanity from many years ago that was restored; and she decided that the pool house bathroom was the perfect place to let it shine.

The Process

Every designer has their own process, and Papier prefers to start with art to draw out the color palette.

Papier’s must-haves for every design include: Layered lighting for different functionalities and moods, wood elements that bring in warmth, a statement piece that is a conversation starter, and of course, art.

Equally important to consider is how the space will function and how to make the best use of limited square footage.

This space involved wiring, plumbing, and framing before design could begin, but Papier was firm in her vision, and she enlisted many partners to help her make it come to fruition, including the Build with Ferguson team.

The Products

For the bathroom space, Papier drew inspiration from that vintage vanity, and she retrofitted it for use in the pool house bathroom. She chose the Kohler Purist wall-mounted widespread bathroom faucet to adorn the sink.

The Signature Hardware Key West one-piece, elongated, skirted, chair-height toilet was chosen for its smooth design and comfort.

In the shower is the Kohler Purist pressure-balanced shower system with hand shower. The olive-toned diamond-shaped wall tile is accented with bright white in the pony wall and floor tile in olive and peachy-pink to complete the bath.

When asked to describe her design aesthetic, Papier says, “I adore working with art and color but making it functional with interesting mixes of character pieces, vintage and layers.”

Her philosophy rings true throughout space, especially in the kitchen and living areas.

The windows over the sink open to an outside bar and serving area. Papier loves the view from the sink, where she can also admire the Kohler Purist widespread bridge kitchen faucet. The sink area is illuminated by a Mid-century modern style metal Kichler Fira 18” wide pendant in white.

Papier continued chrome tones throughout the space, including the hardware in the appliances and cabinetry. When it came to appliances, Papier knew she wanted to stick with the Mid-century modern vibe she established in the rest of the house. She knew she could find quality products at Build with Ferguson that would continue that retro energy in the kitchen. She chose the KitchenAid 42” built-in French door refrigerator as well as a KitchenAid 24” built-in microwave, both in black finishes. Papier landed on a 15” 25 lbs. capacity panel-ready ice maker that blends seamlessly with the gorgeous aquamarine-colored cabinetry.

A Sunny Success

In the kitchen, art was carefully chosen, and custom walnut shelves were installed along the walls for a curated look. Papier was incredibly impressed with the power and craftsmanship of KitchenAid appliances without compromising on style.

In the bathroom, Papier particularly loved the outcome achieved from the look of the Kohler Purist collection.

“When designing the bathroom for this space, I knew I wanted quality materials that would give that retro touch and that’s where Build with Ferguson came in. I’ve always loved the classic look of chrome and when it comes to quality, the Kohler Purist line always delivers.” said Papier.

One of Papier’s strong design credos is making each home unique and personal to the occupant and that everyone deserves their own happy space. Of this space, Papier gushes, "I feel like I should have one of those signs out here that says, ‘Please shower before entering the pool’ but I’m afraid that they may never leave the bathroom!”

Finding Solutions at Build with Ferguson

Papier found the Build with Ferguson team to have excellent product knowledge and great customer service. She loved the wide selection of appliances to choose from in addition to plumbing and lighting elements. “Build with Ferguson’s team is both knowledgeable as well as resourceful! They truly make the shopping experience easy and fun. The selections in so many different home improvement categories cannot be matched.” said Papier.

Make Waves with Your Style

We loved collaborating with Natalie Papier and Home Ec. on this pool house and the results are stunning. Love the look of this colorful, eclectic space? Shop the look! For more inspiration, head to Instagram at @home_ec_op and the Home Ec. site at https://www.homeecop.com/home.