I became involved in interior design in 1985 – professionally, that is. I'm amazed it took me so long because I've been fascinated by houses, architecture, furniture, fabrics, et al since my childhood in Camden, South Carolina.

My mother was a major influence. Camden has an extraordinary collection of antebellum homes, and Mother often took me on historic house tours. Local real estate agents would give her a sneak peak at any significant house about to go on the market – I tagged along. If she were interested, she'd draw a floor plan, and cut out tiny furniture templates, which I in turn played with like paper dolls, pushing the pieces around the rooms. Mother took local furniture and interior design courses, and I helped compile her scrapbooks. And of course I picked out the wallpaper and furniture for my own bedroom. I loved it all!

After graduating from Queens College in Charlotte, I moved to New York City, which truly was a visual and cerebral treat. I attended Parsons and FIT and worked for a few years in the apparel industry. Finally I came full circle, switched careers and went to work for Kevin Lally Interior Design.

I opened my own firm in 1990 and have had the pleasure of working on wonderful projects – from apartments in Manhattan to houses all over the country – for many wonderful clients. I now shuttle between the city and Quiogue, a lovely little hamlet on Eastern Long Island.

Between living in New York and being lucky enough to travel, I've been exposed to a whole range of stimuli, which has honed my sensibilities to the fascinating diversity of great design.