Bambi A’Lynn Bratton is an interior designer who lives in Austin and works throughout the great state of Texas. She focuses on the residential market, helping homeowners turn dreams into reality, and believes she has done her job when people say that they’d rather be at home than anywhere else. Taking design inspiration from books, travel and fashion, Bambi is constantly exploring. “I am forever in awe of life’s beauty and its moments,” she says. “I really soak it all in — and I feel this is reflected in the designs I create for my clients. From classic books, ballroom gown fabric and wildflowers to international fashion, period movies and Audrey Hepburn… I draw on all of this for inspiration.” See how Bambi turns inspiration into inviting spaces in today’s Designer Friday.
Vaulted ceilings and layered patterns bring cozy height and playful charm to this inviting nook.
Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Bambi A’Lynn Bratton: My mom — we lived in an old home and she was always remodeling it and shopping for antiques. I actually aspired to be a fashion designer when I was young but then decided interior design was similar and more attainable.
AJ: Can you describe your design philosophy in three words?
BAB: Lovely, approachable, timeless.
AJ: How do you approach a new design project?
BAB: Interview the client, ask a series of questions, go through their home, books and collected images to see what they like and what they do not like.
AJ: What is the most important element in a successful interior design?
BAB: Form and function.
AJ: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as a designer?
BAB: You can never anticipate enough!
Pattern play, painted hues and playful tile details breathe personality into this light-filled living space.
AJ: What was the last book you read and how did it inspire you?
BAB: A Gentleman in Moscow — inspired me to be present in all things and to appreciate what is in front of me. He lived in the same hotel for the majority of his life and made the most of it.
AJ: What is your favorite aspect of your job?
BAB: Fabric schemes.
AJ: How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
BAB: I really try to encourage clients to buy the best they can and to think of furnishings as an investment versus being disposable or replaceable.
AJ: How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your designs?
BAB: Listening to how a client lives and coming up with a furniture plan first, then finding beautiful pieces that fit the plan so they function appropriately.
AJ: What is your favorite design trend from the past?
BAB: I love the designs of Albert Hadley and Sister Parish — so many of today’s great designers started there: Bunny Williams, David Kleinberg, etc. Classic, timeless, lots of pattern play and texture, not afraid of color.
Rooted in neoclassical elegance, this dining room layers symmetry, graceful detailing and gilded accents for an elevated feel.
AJ: What is your favorite design element to incorporate into your projects?
BAB: A touch of black and an antique in every room — both help ground a space and make it more approachable, comfortable, and lived-in.
AJ: How do you stay organized while working on multiple projects?
BAB: Each client has their own bag where I keep their samples, a book that includes quotes, orders and notes, and a spreadsheet that tracks every item ordered and where it is in the process.
AJ: What is your favorite type of space to design?
BAB: A living room with different seating groups.
AJ: What is the most important skill for a successful designer?
BAB: An eye for beauty, sense of style, curiosity, ability to listen and creativity.
AJ: What is your favorite type of furniture to design?
BAB: Reproductions of antique pieces I have seen or found, and upholstery pieces incorporating beautiful fabrics and trims.
Like what you see? Get it first with a subscription to aspire design and home magazine.