Joshua Smith is the founder of Joshua Smith Inc., a full-service residential interior design company catering to clients on both coasts. Originally from Texas, Joshua attended the New York School of Interior Design and has worked with many prestigious and high-end design firms. Since founding his eponymous design firm in 2013, Joshua has been awarded many accolades and his work featured in The New York Times and Rizzoli’s 2019 book, “On Style”. Learn more about Joshua in this week’s Designer Friday.
This classic California bungalow-style living room is grounded by the wood and wicker against the soft white walls.
Andrew Joseph: If you could guest star on any TV show -on or off air- what show would you guest star in?
Joshua Smith: That’s an easy one–I’m dying to do a segment with Kelly Clarkson on her show. We both have Texas roots, and I’m just convinced we’d be fast friends. I’ve adored her for years and am so happy for all her success. I know she has a good heart and I do as well, so I think we could create some really amazing segments to bring more love, light and beauty to people’s everyday lives through their spaces at home! Kelly! Call me–let’s make magic!
AJ: If you could live in any home in a movie or television series, what would it be?
JS: Hmm…that’s tough. Pretty much anything Nancy Meyers created would be great, but a top one would be It’s Complicated. That home is a dream – those grounds! And of course, who wouldn’t want to live in the home from Something’s Gotta Give.
This elegant bathroom is accentuated by the floating slab counter. The rough circular stone mirror and marble basin draw you into the room. Circles become thematic in this room between the small stool, sink, mirror and lighting.
AJ: What are you most proud of?
JS: I’m most proud of making the decision over 16 years ago to get sober and being committed to staying sober.
AJ: How would you define your work in three words
JS: Light, Livable & Serene.
AJ: Must-have clothing item everyone should have in their closet?
JS: A cashmere sweater; nothing is cozier to wear or to others when they give you a hug! And you can dress it up or down. My go-to uniform is a pair of faded jeans and a cashmere sweater, barefoot if I can and if not, then brown shoes and stylish watch! It’s all you need!
The ornate crown molding and stunning millwork ceiling contrast with the simple antique wooden table in this dining room.
AJ: How do you define beauty?
JS: To me, beauty is a spiritual principle. I think beauty is love expressed. Think of a flower blossom for instance–or anything that Mother Nature creates! Beauty is not just something we see; it is an experience. I had a teacher in design school who gave the best advice on Day 1 of class. She said, ‘As we go through this class, our lives–it’s not so much about whether what you view is your definition of beauty, rather–can you recognize it in what you experience and appreciate the beauty that lies within.’ Amen!
AJ: Favorite tea to decompress, and in what mug?
JS: Harney’s Lavender and Chamomile. The loose-leaf combination with its delicate purples and yellows is gorgeous, and the aroma of the steam instantly evokes peace. I love my tea in a clear glass mug so I can appreciate the beauty in which the light interplays with the tea!
Photography by Lisa Romerin.
About the Designer | With projects on both coasts, Joshua Smith Inc, offers full-service residential interior design – and life-changing spaces. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. His work has been featured in House Beautiful, Veranda, The New York Times and Rizzoli’s 2019 book, “On Style”.
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