Designer Friday: An Aspire Exclusive Interview With Amy Youngblood

Amy Youngblood is a Cincinnati-based interior designer and artist known for her clean lines, comfortable interiors, and sophisticated rooms. Passionate about art and design, Amy received her Bachelor of Arts degree with a Major in Communications, and later received a degree in Interior Design at Mount Saint Joseph University, graduating Magna Cum Laude with an emphasis on Art History. Get to know Amy Youngblood as we talk to her about staying true to her love of art and how she curates each of her unique interiors.

The different tones of white and gray throughout this space shows how to be expressive with just one color. Photography by Josh Beeman.

The different tones of white and gray throughout this space shows how to be expressive with just one color. Photography by Josh Beeman.

Andrew Joseph: If you weren’t a designer, you’d be a ….
Amy Youngblood: News anchor. I’ll confess, I’m a news junkie and was also a communications major in college before I got my degree in interior design. I’ve appeared on television several times and am very comfortable on camera—and simply fascinated with the business.

AJ: What would you like to be remembered for?
AY: Besides being an accomplished designer, I’d like to be known as a great wife and mother, as well as someone who made a difference in this complicated world. My family always comes first and I am active in volunteering for causes I believe in like childhood hunger, domestic violence and sexual assault.

Leather Knoll Barcelona chairs bring warmth to this layered living room; a perfect spot for entertaining with its two low-profile couches.

Leather Knoll Barcelona chairs bring warmth to this layered living room; a perfect spot for entertaining with its two low-profile couches.

AJ: What’s one thing people don’t know about you?
AY: Most people are surprised when they find out I tell them I was a total athlete in high school. My favorite sport I played was softball which I started playing at age six. My father was a BIG 10 baseball player and taught me everything I know. I ended up as the star fast pitcher on my high school team. And anyone can tell you from back then—I throw and hit the ball hard!

AJ: How would you describe your personal style?
AY: I like to think I am fashion-forward and “edgy.” I have a fetish for great style and clothes! Probably my signature “go-to” is a pair of leather pants paired with a tailored jacket or flowing silk top and low heels. I was wearing leather pants BEFORE they were in style!

Dark warm wood and leather play against the metallic chandelier and beige, traditional floral rug. Accents of gold play with the pale yellow wall treatment.

Dark warm wood and leather play against the metallic chandelier and beige, traditional floral rug. Accents of gold play with the pale yellow wall treatment.

AJ: What are your beauty secrets?
AY: Lots of sleep and exercise! While I realize this can be easier said than done, it also keeps me sane and able to handle my busy schedule! I also tend to my skin with lots of moisturizer and quality products.

AJ: Best advice you’d give your teenage self?
AY: This is a great question because I was a pretty awkward, insecure teen. I would tell myself back then to be yourself and don’t try to just “fit in” for popularity’s sake. Be your true self and kind to others and people will naturally gravitate to you!


About The Designer | Amy began her career in interior design over 20 years ago. She has worked for several interior design firms, both residential and commercial. With a strong background as an accomplished artist, Amy fused her creative abilities along with her business and design experience to launch Amy Youngblood Interiors in 2009. Both Amy’s artwork and design commissions have been featured over the years in the local and national media. Amy’s appreciation of all styles has made her known for her clean-lined, yet comfortable, sophisticated look.

When Amy is not growing her eponymous firm, she enjoys traveling with her husband Tom and two teenagers as well as exploring the food and culture of Cincinnati. An avid fitness buff, she can be found at her trainer’s studio or at a Pilates class. She is also a fashion lover and integrates that into her designs. Amy continues to accept prestigious art commissions as her schedule allows.

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