Designer Next Door: Getting to Know Lisa Henderson Interiors

When it comes to classically comfortable interiors, no one executes like Lisa Henderson of Lisa Henderson Interiors.

Her design philosophy — to enhance each client’s daily routine with a beautiful place to call home — is evident in every aspect of her work, from whole house renovations to her textile business, and every one of her projects strikes the perfect combination of both livability and timeless style.

Lisa also knows that now, more than ever, our homes are the center of everything we do. Whether a homeowner is an empty nester or raising a growing family, Lisa understands the importance of form and function — and she beautifully delivers both throughout every aspect of her work. Lisa’s clients benefit from her meticulous expertise, discerning taste, thoughtful approach, and impeccable details as she curates spaces that are personal and comfortable.

Additionally, since the impact of COVID-19 has significantly affected how people live and work at home, Lisa has been able to creatively identify solutions for home offices and other spaces around the house that not only meet immediate needs but are designed to be enjoyed for years to come.

Lisa answered a few questions about her philosophy.

How would you describe your design aesthetic?

My style is traditional — but fresh. Most of all, I love infusing color in everything I do.

What do you encourage your clients to keep in mind when they’re working on their homes?

At the beginning of every project, I ask my clients to complete a questionnaire. Not only does this approach help me get to know them and gain a deeper understanding for their project, the questions allow me to define the direction for each room — such as: “How do you want to use this space and what function will it have for your daily life?” Because of this perspective, the end results efficiently utilize the whole room in a comfortable, cozy way, due to the lack of dead, undefined space.

Also, as I work with my clients to develop a vision for both the construction elements and the furnishings within a room, I encourage them to choose what they love — even if it means taking their time!

If your clients are in the market for a new home, what words of advice do you have for them?

Pick the neighborhood you want to be in — first! Also, look beyond the paint, unsightly fixtures, and finishes when house shopping and focus on the floorplan, street, and square footage that will meet the needs of your family. If it’s ugly, we can change it (and that’s the fun part!)!

Neighborhood you call home?

University Park. The environment is perfect for family life, and the community, beautiful parks, shopping, police, pools, and schools are just unparalleled. Life in the Park Cities has all the small-town vibes — for example, knowing you’ll run into someone you know every time you go to Mi Cocina!

Tell us about your love for entertaining. What’s your favorite way to host friends and family?

I tell my clients what I believe for myself — always throw the party! While formal, sit-down dinners are memorable, open your home for friends and family regardless of the setting. A casual dinner grilling outside while children are running around is just as fun as an adult-only cocktail party — the most important thing is being together. Your guests will feel special either way!

You recently launched a (gorgeous!) textile line. Where do you find inspiration for your prints and designs?

My favorite way to find new inspirations is by traveling — mainly throughout Europe! For example, my textile print, the Firenze, was inspired by a recent trip to Florence, Italy. I also enjoy looking through antique books for archived papers and textile patterns.

I love the European lifestyle, cultures, seasons, aesthetics, cuisine, and architecture and am enthusiastic to find ways to incorporate these elements into my designs.

Best time to get started on a new project?

The first few months of the new year are the perfect season to begin a project—the craziness of the holidays has settled down and you can begin planning for the year ahead! With the delays we’re still seeing, give yourself plenty of time—and then some!

What is your goal for every project, regardless of scale or style?

I have a strong desire for my clients to truly feel at home and happy to be home, every time they walk in the door. Regardless of what is going on in their day—or in their lives—I want my client’s projects to serve as a place of beautiful, therapeutic respite where their unique personality and lifestyle feel known and appreciated.