For the past 20 years, Atlanta-based designer Tish Mills has brought families closer together through her residential design firm, Harmonious Living. Primarily focused on Southeastern projects, Harmonious Living pays a great deal of attention to the cohesiveness of shades, shapes, and sizes when choosing the decor for a particular space. Taking inspiration from homes’ exteriors, Mills crafts a seamless transition from exterior to interior, and often implements materials and textures inside from her surroundings outside. A trained Feng shui expert as well as designer, Mills is adept at building harmonious environments for others. Meet the Georgian design guru in today’s Designer Friday below!
Andrew Joseph: What’s your wakeup ritual
Tish Mills: Every day I meditate as soon as I wake up. Depending on the morning, it could be 5 minutes or it could be 30. And then… Coffee!
Andrew: Dream country to work in? Or dream project to take on.
Tish: A dream would be a country estate in the South of France.
Andrew: Vintage or new?
Tish: The mix of two, not too much of either, it must be the perfect balance.
Andrew: Style (or design) icon?
Tish: Axel Vervoordt is my design crush, I had the honor of hearing him speak about 10 years ago in Venice at a DLN Conference. He truly designs from the soul. As for style icon, DVF. About 12 years ago I heard her speak at the DLN conference. I was struck by how she created her fashion empire from a suitcase and a dream. She reminded me that I can create any business I want. The only thing that can hold me back is fear, and, there’s nothing to be afraid of. Go and create!
Andrew: What’s one ingredient you put in everything?
Tish: Garlic. I am Italian after all.
Andrew: Secret talent?
Tish: I was a champion equestrian growing up. I rode Hunter Jumper and then transitioned into 3 Day Event. One of my dream projects is to design a true Horse Farm.
Andrew: Favorite city to recharge?
Tish: San Francisco, which is my hometown. I feel connected and grounded when I am home.
Andrew: If you made a documentary, what would it be about?
Tish: The design process of a ground up. Everything that truly happens… the good, the bad and the ugly!
Andrew: Who is your ideal client?
Tish: I love a client that truly understands how close the relationship should be. Someone who allows themselves to be vulnerable and share their passions. Someone that is willing to go outside of their comfort zone to manifest their dreams.
Andrew: Best compliment you’ve ever received?
Tish: A client recently gave me the most beautiful necklace with a thank you note telling me that the house we created had truly been transformative for the family. They all have their own space that is a reflection of them as well as a family space that brings them all together. It truly is why I do what I do.
Andrew Joseph is a regular contributing editor for ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME magazine. See more of his work here.
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