Dee Murphy is a professional interior designer, working from her own design firm Murphy Deesign, based in Los Angeles. She originally trained as a gymnast and professional dancer for 17 years, but decided to commit to design after renovating her own home. This then snowballed into the refurbishment of a number of her friends homes too. She has been applauded for her natural sense of interior style and for her love of all things vintage. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Dee Murphy.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I have a definitive knack for “the mix”… styling vintage pieces with traditional and modern touches. And as lovely as an all neutral room is… I just can’t resist gorgeous pops of color and pattern.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
I usually start each room with wall color and/or wallpaper, and the rug. They are the frame that tends to hold everything else together. The cohesiveness of additional accessories refers back to this framework.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
I admire ANYONE with a true DIY nature because my DIY skills are so minimal (or maybe I’m just honestly too lazy…or busy!). My father is an engineer, but took up carpentry as a hobby. He has built some beautiful pieces for my kids, and some extremely useful organizational units for me. I’d love to be able to get my hands a little more “dirty” in the creative process, so to speak!
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
For a quick burst of inspiration… roaming around my own city gets me inspired. Strolling through my favorite vintage and fabric stores, especially. A BIG trip, travel abroad… is the BEST cure for any type of creative block.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
My career success is a fifty percent mix between my own hustle and the belief of my peers… in me! My business was built on referrals, and started with friends and family loving the aesthetic in my own home. So my advice for anyone starting out in this business is to believe and hustle!!!