The Journey of Expertise
How Rowan Hall Interiors became a leading interior design firm in Knoxville, TN

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we pride ourselves on our history of perseverance, adaptability, and constant learning. Our founder, Alfie, didn’t follow the typical path to becoming an experienced professional in the interior design industry. Instead, she created her own way, drawing on her life experiences and building a foundation of knowledge by surrounding herself with experts. This unique approach is what makes Rowan Hall Interiors stand out among interior design firms Knoxville, TN—we’ve been through it all, and that gives us the insight to tackle any project with precision and confidence.

A Non-Traditional Path to Design

Alfie’s journey began far from the world of fabric swatches and custom furniture. With a degree in cell biology from the University of Tennessee and four years of chemistry under her belt, she never anticipated that her career would lead her to design. Yet, life has a funny way of pulling us in unexpected directions.

After starting a small retail business, clients were drawn to Alfie’s natural eye for design, asking her for advice on everything from bookcases to paint colors. At first, she hesitated to call herself a designer. But soon, she found herself immersed in the world of design, learning hands-on through countless projects and client requests. “I didn’t get here in the traditional fashion of going to design school,” Alfie says, but her 25 years of experience speak for themselves. Through trial and error, she gained the real-world skills that make Rowan Hall Interiors a trusted name in interior design firms Knoxville, TN.

Building on a Foundation of Collaboration

One of the key lessons Alfie learned early on was the value of collaboration. In the beginning, she’d find herself needing to educate herself quickly on unfamiliar design concepts. “I was doing my very first staircase,” Alfie recalls, “and I didn’t know all the pieces and parts of a staircase.” Instead of shying away, she researched and consulted with contractors to ensure the project’s success.

This experience laid the groundwork for the way Rowan Hall Interiors operates today. Alfie always emphasizes the importance of surrounding herself with talented craftsmen, fabricators, and contractors who specialize in their fields. This collaborative approach means that when you work with Rowan Hall Interiors, you’re not just getting one designer—you’re tapping into a network of the best professionals in the industry.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we understand that interior design is about more than just making things look pretty. From the angle of a banquette to the perfect nosing on a staircase, the details matter. And when it comes to choosing experts in each of those details, we ensure our clients receive nothing less than top-tier service. This is what sets us apart from other interior design firms Knoxville, TN.

Never Stop Learning: Staying Ahead in Design

One of the most remarkable aspects of Alfie’s journey is her relentless drive to keep learning. Even after 25 years in the business, she believes there’s always something new to discover. “There’s always room for improvement,” she says. Whether it’s a new material or a fresh design technique, Rowan Hall Interiors stays ahead by continuously adding to our collective knowledge.

This mindset benefits our clients directly. We don’t just follow trends—we set them. Our designs are timeless yet innovative, rooted in the lessons we’ve learned through years of experience but always evolving to incorporate the latest in design technology and style. Our team’s ability to blend classic design principles with modern elements is what makes us a leader among interior design firms Knoxville, TN.

Relying on Experts for the Perfect Result

One of the greatest strengths of Rowan Hall Interiors is our extensive network of expert collaborators. Alfie learned early on that “you can’t be an expert in everything.” The key to delivering outstanding projects is knowing who to call. From kitchen cabinetry to integrated lighting systems, our partners ensure that every aspect of a project is handled with precision and care.

This collaborative mindset doesn’t just extend to our trade partners—it’s a core value within our team. We believe that design is a team sport, and the best results come from open communication and collaboration between designers, contractors, and clients. Our process ensures that every voice is heard and every idea is considered, ultimately delivering designs that exceed expectations.

Why Rowan Hall Interiors?

With a proven track record of stunning transformations and a network of top-tier professionals, Rowan Hall Interiors is one of the most trusted interior design firms Knoxville, TN has to offer. We bring decades of experience, an eye for detail, and a dedication to collaboration that ensures every project is executed to perfection. Our non-traditional path into design has given us a wealth of experience, making us adaptable, creative, and always ready for a challenge.

Ready to experience the Rowan Hall difference? Contact us today, and let our team of experts bring your design vision to life. Whether it’s a complete renovation or a simple update, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

Alfie’s Faux Pas
4 things this Knoxville interior designer notices immediately

As interior designers, we’re trained to spot the details that most people might overlook. When our founder, Alfie, walks into a home, there are a few things she notices instantly—details that can make or break the overall look and feel of a space. From window treatments to rugs, these elements might seem small, but they play a significant role in the harmony and quality of your home’s design. If you’re looking to elevate your space, understanding what stands out to a professional can help guide you toward making impactful changes. Here are a few of the most common design faux pas that Knoxville interior designers like Alfie notice immediately.

1. Improper Window Treatments

Curtains that are too short and not substantial enough leave a space looking unfinished.

Custom window treatments that just touch the ground and hang at ceiling height will make short ceilings look taller.

One of the first things Alfie will assess is the window treatments. Curtains, or drapes, are an essential part of any room, but they can also be a quick indicator of whether a space has been thoughtfully designed or not. According to Alfie, “If your window treatments are on grommets, that’s probably going to change once you bring me into your life.”

Grommet curtains might be fine in a child’s bedroom, but they often lack the elegance and sophistication required for more formal spaces. Another common mistake? Curtains that are too short, too long, too skimpy, or simply don’t suit the scale of the window. “It has been said that I’m a window treatment snob, and it’s true,” says Alfie, adding that she is passionate about high-quality, well-made window treatments that fit perfectly.

As experienced Knoxville interior designers, we understand the importance of high-quality drapery that fits perfectly and adds elegance to a room. Custom window treatments can instantly elevate your home and make it feel more polished. If your drapes are falling short—literally—it might be time to invest in a professional’s touch.

2. Rugs That Don’t Fit the Space

Your rug should sit beneath at least the front legs of your furniture. This room shows an improper rug size.

A properly sized rug will ground your room and elevate the space.

Another major design element Alfie quickly notices is the rug. Whether it’s too small, too large, or simply doesn’t suit the grandeur of the space, an inappropriate rug can detract from the overall aesthetic of your home. In some homes, particularly larger or more luxurious properties, a cheap, machine-made rug can clash with the elegance of its surroundings. Alfie points out that a $4,000,000 home with a $400 rug under a stunning dining table is a mismatch that stands out immediately.

The key is to make sure your rug not only fits the space in terms of size but also aligns with the room’s style and quality. A custom or handwoven rug that complements the design can tie everything together. If your rug is undersized or lacks the quality to match the rest of your décor, Knoxville interior designers like Alfie will notice—and recommend an upgrade that fits the space perfectly.

3. Lampshades That Fall Short

Your lamps and their shades should be appropriately sized for the space

It might not be the first thing you think of, but lampshades are another detail that Alfie hones in on as soon as she enters a room. “I love great lamps,” she says, and rightfully so. Lamps can be a statement piece, bringing light and style into a room. However, if the lampshades are poorly made, have large seams, or are too starkly bright, they can detract from the entire look.

Alfie mentions that she frequently notices overly bright white lampshades that don’t fit with the overall color scheme of the room. As discerning Knoxville interior designers will tell you, even something as small as a lampshade can make or break a room’s design. Replacing those poorly fitting or overly bright lampshades with custom, high-quality ones can bring a subtle yet impactful improvement to your space.

4. Mismatched Quality Between Furniture and Décor

One final detail Alfie often notices is when there’s a disconnect between the quality of furniture and the décor. For instance, you might have a beautiful, antique dining table but paired with inexpensive, mass-produced items like a low-quality rug or chairs. Alfie explains, “You want the expectation to meet the reality of what you’re coming into.”

In high-end homes, everything from the rugs to the accessories should reflect the level of investment you’ve made in your space. For this reason, Knoxville interior designers like Alfie place a strong emphasis on ensuring the entire room feels cohesive and balanced in both style and quality.

Final Thoughts: Elevating Your Home with the Right Details

The truth is, small details can make a big difference in how your home feels and functions. From the fit of your window treatments to the quality of your rugs and lampshades, each element plays a part in the overall design. That’s why professional Knoxville interior designers like Alfie have a keen eye for these details, helping homeowners elevate their spaces in ways they may never have thought possible.

If you’re noticing some of these design faux pas in your own home, it might be time to bring in a professional for a consultation. The team at Rowan Hall Interiors is ready to help you refine your space, making sure every detail is perfectly in place. Whether you’re ready for a full design overhaul or just need advice on those tricky details, our team of Knoxville interior designers is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to get started!

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

From East to West
Farragut Interior Designers Give Clients a Western Flair

At Rowan Hall Interiors, every room has a story, and this one was no exception. When our clients asked us, their trusted Farragut, TN interior designer, to transform their son’s childhood bedroom into a sophisticated guest retreat, we were excited to blend nostalgia with a fresh, chic design. The goal was to create a cozy, inviting space for visitors while maintaining a sense of familiarity for their son when he returns home. These clients might live in East Tennessee, but they much prefer to be out West. We carefully curated rustic elements that echo the charm of Colorado and Montana, resulting in a retreat that’s both warm and polished.

Before: A Space Steeped in Nostalgia

The original room was a treasure trove of memories, from bold sports-themed wall art to keepsakes from their son’s youth. While it served him well through the years, our clients envisioned a more refined, guest-ready room that still carried a bit of that heartwarming familiarity. It was time to say goodbye to the bold graphics and hello to a more serene and versatile space.

After: A Warm and Inviting Guest Room

To start, we embraced a palette of soft neutrals to create a calming atmosphere, perfect for both guests and family. Crisp white bedding became the foundation for plush pillows in faux fur and an irresistibly cozy throw, adding texture and luxury. We selected a rustic wooden desk and paired it with a buttery leather chair, infusing the room with natural, Western-inspired elements. These thoughtful details honor the family’s love for the outdoors, subtly weaving their personal style throughout the room.

One of our favorite pieces is the whimsical art above the bed. This unique piece adds a playful yet sophisticated touch to the room. Coupled with an industrial chandelier, the artwork brings in just the right amount of rustic-meets-modern charm—creating an effortlessly elegant space that’s both functional and stylish.

Rustic Accents for a Timeless Look

To dial up the rustic vibe, we incorporated distressed wood finishes, a natural horn-inspired wall piece, and a rich, patterned rug that anchors the room. The result is a space that feels like a cozy mountain lodge—inviting enough for guests to unwind but also perfectly familiar for the family’s son when he visits. Each detail, from the texture of the furnishings to the color palette, was designed to offer a welcoming retreat with a touch of timeless, Western elegance.

A Bathroom Refresh for Modern Comfort

The adjacent bathroom added an additional undertaking to this renovation. As a Farragut, TN interior designer, we’re often called upon to ensure every space, including bathrooms, feels elevated yet comfortable. We chose to replace the outdated tile and fixtures with finishes that are much more elevated and timeless. This part of the renovation adds value to the home if our clients ever decide to sell, but it allows our clients and their guests to enjoy the updates in the meantime.

We opted to replace the large brown porcelain tile with a natural stone plank to give a more current feel. The coordinating shower surround with a custom niche gives a more luxurious feel to the practical bathtub insert. We replaced the vanity, including the mirror and light fixture with pieces that add a rustic feel while remaining elevated–just like the high-end Aspen hotel we were channeling. 

Of course, no Rowan Hall room would be complete without custom drapery panels! This bathroom did not have a window, but a custom shower curtain was the perfect way to complete the space. We designed custom, pleated panels in a simple and neutral windowpane fabric to add drama and luxury to this small bathroom. The neutral tones make this space a timeless investment for the future while being the perfect upgrade for this guest suite.

A Versatile Space for All

This transformation beautifully blends the past and the present, resulting in a guest room that our clients can proudly show off while their son still feels right at home. The room’s rustic accents, soft textures, and elegant furnishings have created a space that’s both versatile and inviting. If you’re searching for a Farragut, TN interior designer to help you blend styles or create a similar retreat, our team at Rowan Hall Interiors is here to help.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we’re passionate about designing spaces that feel like home, whether that means a brand-new look or breathing new life into a beloved room. If you, like our clients, have empty rooms sitting unused, what are you waiting for? Let’s create a home that serves your needs and brings you joy behind every door!

If you’re ready to transform a space in your home, our team is here to help make your vision a reality. Contact us today to get started on your dream project!

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

How to Make Your Builder-Grade Home Look More Custom
A take on curating luxury from a Knoxville Interior Designer

In today’s real estate market, it can be tough to find a home that checks all of your boxes. Many buyers end up with a builder-grade home, which is functional but often lacks the character and personal touches that make a home truly special. The good news? You don’t have to settle for a cookie-cutter look. With a few thoughtful updates, you can transform your builder-grade home into a custom, one-of-a-kind space that reflects your style and personality.

Here are some simple yet impactful ways we elevate our clients’ homes, as shared by Rowan Hall Interiors founder, Alfie Rowan:

1. Update the Light Fixtures

One of the easiest ways to make your builder-grade home look more custom is by swapping out basic light fixtures for something more unique. Alfie notes that many homes built in the 1990s (and beyond) came standard with a large, gold chandelier—an outdated look that doesn’t match today’s design trends.

“If you still have that light fixture, you need to call us immediately,” jokes Alfie. Changing out those generic fixtures for more modern or luxurious lighting options can dramatically change the mood of your space. Think statement chandeliers, sleek pendants, or even vintage-inspired sconces. Lighting not only adds functionality but can also act as the “jewelry” of your home, elevating the overall aesthetic.

If you’re unsure about how to select the right lighting to complement your home’s style, working with interior designers in Knoxville, TN can make the process seamless and stress-free. Designers like Rowan Hall Interiors can guide you through selecting the perfect fixtures that enhance your space.

2. Install a Custom Backsplash

Builder-grade kitchens often feature basic backsplashes, typically white subway tile, which can feel bland and repetitive. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with a simple backsplash, it’s a prime area to add some personality and interest. According to Alfie, this is the perfect spot to splurge on something that feels special.

“A beautiful custom backsplash can serve as a stunning focal point in your kitchen,” Alfie says. Whether it’s an intricate tile pattern, a bold pop of color, or a sleek, high-end material like marble or glass, upgrading your backsplash can make your kitchen feel far more custom and sophisticated.

Interior designers Knoxville TN experts can help you select a backsplash that not only looks beautiful but also complements the overall design of your home.

3. Add Wallpaper for Instant Character

Wallpaper is a game-changer when it comes to making a space feel more custom. Alfie suggests that wallpaper can instantly transform the feel of a room, adding depth, texture, and personality in ways that paint alone cannot. Whether you choose a bold pattern for an accent wall or a subtle design for an entire room, wallpaper brings a level of sophistication and style that builder-grade homes often lack.

Wallpaper is especially effective in spaces like powder rooms, entryways, or dining rooms, where you can create a high-impact look without overwhelming the entire home. To ensure a flawless installation and a cohesive look, you can rely on our Knoxville interior designers to help you choose the right patterns and materials.

4. Incorporate Custom Draperies

“Of course, y’all know I’m going to add custom drapes to that list,” Alfie says with a smile. Custom drapery is one of those finishing touches that can make a home feel polished and intentional. Standard blinds or off-the-shelf curtains are functional, but custom drapery adds elegance, softness, and a tailored look to any room.

The right window treatments can elevate the overall design, provide better light control, and even improve the acoustics of a room. Plus, they offer an opportunity to bring in color, texture, or pattern in a way that complements your space.

If you’re looking to incorporate luxurious window treatments, Rowan Hall’s interior designers Knoxville TN can assist in selecting fabrics and styles that add a refined, custom feel to your home.

5. Upgrade the Molding

Builder-grade homes often come with minimal or basic molding and trim, which can leave a space feeling flat and unfinished. By upgrading your home’s molding, you can instantly add character and charm. Alfie suggests exploring options like crown molding, baseboards, and wainscoting to give your rooms a more custom look.

While this may not be the cheapest update, Alfie notes that it can have a significant impact on the overall feel of your home. Custom millwork and molding can make even the simplest spaces feel more architecturally interesting and luxurious.

With help from Knoxville interior designers, you can explore custom millwork options that are tailored to your home’s style and bring a sense of elegance and completion to your rooms.

6. Enhance Your Staircase

Staircases are often overlooked in builder-grade homes, but they offer a prime opportunity to make a statement. Alfie points out that updating elements like balusters and newel posts can dramatically change the look of your stairs, making them feel more custom and high-end.

If a full staircase renovation isn’t in the budget, consider adding a stair runner to bring in color, texture, and interest. A well-chosen runner can enhance the visual appeal of your staircase while also providing practical benefits like noise reduction and added traction.

7. Invest in Custom Furniture and Décor

Finally, one of the easiest ways to make your builder-grade home feel more custom is by incorporating unique, high-quality furniture and décor. Custom pieces, whether it’s a bespoke sofa or handcrafted coffee table, add a level of luxury and personalization that off-the-shelf items simply can’t match.

Don’t be afraid to mix in vintage or one-of-a-kind pieces to create a curated look. These elements will not only set your home apart but also make it feel like a true reflection of your style. We love to take pieces that are special to our clients and work them into our designs.

By working with our interior designers in Knoxville, TN, you can curate a mix of furniture and accessories that will give your home a personalized and high-end feel.

Transforming Your Builder-Grade Home

If you’ve found yourself in a builder-grade home that doesn’t quite meet your design dreams, there are plenty of ways we can add custom touches that elevate the look and feel of your space. From swapping out light fixtures to incorporating wallpaper, custom drapes, and unique furniture, we can turn your generic home into a personalized sanctuary.

At Rowan Hall Interiors, we specialize in helping homeowners transform their spaces with thoughtful design solutions. Whether you’re looking to make small updates or embark on a larger renovation, our team of interior designers Knoxville TN is here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take your home from builder-grade to custom? Contact us today to get started!

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.

Signs You Need an Interior Designer
Decide if Rowan Hall Interiors is the Knoxville interior designer for you

“How hard could it be?” might be the world’s most famous last words. If you’ve ever set out to DIY a daunting task, then you know the feeling of getting halfway through and realizing you should have hired a professional. Believe it or not, as a Knoxville interior designer, most of our clients have tried their hand at decorating their own homes in the past. They decided the end result was not worth the time-consuming, tedious work, and for their next project, Rowan Hall Interiors was their first call!

Designing a home that reflects your personality and functions seamlessly can be a challenge. Whether you’re moving into a new house, renovating your current space, or just looking for a fresh update, hiring a professional can make a world of difference. If you’re located in East Tennessee, Knoxville interior designers can help take the stress out of the process, guiding you through design choices and ensuring your home looks stunning and works for your lifestyle.

How do you know when it’s time to hire an interior designer? If you’re debating whether or not to call Rowan Hall Interiors, here are some signs that you might need expert help:

1. You Feel Overwhelmed by Choices

When it comes to designing a home, the sheer number of decisions can feel overwhelming. From selecting paint colors and fabrics to choosing furniture and lighting, each choice impacts the overall look and feel of your space. If you’re finding it hard to narrow down your options or visualize how everything will come together, it might be time to call in the experts.

As your Knoxville interior designer, we know how to take your vision and translate it into a cohesive plan. We can guide you through the process, offering expert advice on color schemes, furniture placement, and décor, ensuring that every choice works harmoniously together.

BEFORE

AFTER

2. Your Home Doesn’t Reflect Your Style

Have you ever looked around your home and felt like it just doesn’t represent who you are? Your home should feel like an extension of your personality, a space where you feel comfortable and proud to invite guests. If your current décor feels outdated, mismatched, or simply not “you,” it could be a sign that you need help from a professional designer.

Sometimes people buy something they love in a store, but they get home and realize it just doesn’t work. Maybe you’re facing a design identity crisis, and you can’t figure out how to create the style you love. Rowan Hall’s Knoxville interior designers are skilled at getting to know their clients’ tastes, preferences, and needs. We’ll create a design that reflects your unique style while incorporating elements that enhance both form and function.

3. You’re Not Sure How to Use the Space

Whether you’ve moved into a new home or are simply trying to reconfigure a room, one of the biggest design challenges is making the most of your space. Are you struggling with an awkwardly shaped room or finding it hard to create a functional layout? Perhaps you have too much furniture in one space and not enough in another.

Hiring an interior designer can help you optimize every square foot of your home. Our designers have the expertise to create floor plans that maximize both style and functionality, helping you make the most of every corner of your home.

BEFORE

AFTER

4. You’re Working with a Challenging Space

Some homes present unique design challenges, such as oddly shaped rooms, low ceilings, or limited natural light. If you’re working with a space that feels difficult to design, an interior designer is the perfect solution. We have experience in tackling these types of obstacles and can offer creative solutions to make the space both beautiful and functional.

A professional designer can transform even the trickiest rooms into spaces that feel cohesive, comfortable, and visually appealing.

5. You Don’t Have the Time

Designing a home requires a significant investment of time and effort. Between researching design styles, sourcing furniture, and managing installation timelines, the process can feel overwhelming if you already have a busy schedule.

One of the greatest benefits of working with our Knoxville interior design team is the time-saving aspect. Rowan Hall handles all the details, from the initial concept to the final installation, allowing you to enjoy the transformation without the stress of managing every aspect of the project. You can relax knowing your home is in the hands of a professional who will ensure the project is completed on time and within budget. 

For more on our process, read here.

6. You Want a Polished, Professional Look

If you’re aiming for a magazine-worthy home, hiring an interior designer is the way to go. Designers have an eye for detail and can add the finishing touches that make a home feel complete. From custom drapery to perfectly styled shelves, we know how to create a high-end look that feels both inviting and luxurious.

7. You’re Preparing to Sell Your Home

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the Knoxville market, hiring an interior designer can help boost its appeal to potential buyers. A well-designed home can make a powerful first impression, and small design changes can often increase your home’s market value.

However, we are always a little bit sad when clients wait to call us when they are selling. If you’re making the investment, you should enjoy the result! Even if you aren’t planning to sell for months or years down the road, we can help create a profitable home that you can enjoy in the meantime.

8. You’re Ready for a Change but Don’t Know Where to Start

Sometimes, you know you want a change but aren’t sure where to begin. Whether you’re tired of your current décor or want to refresh your home’s overall style, an interior designer can offer the fresh perspective you need. We’ll assess your space, listen to your goals, and present design options that align with your vision while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your home.

If you find yourself nodding along to any of these signs, it might be time to bring in the experts. Working with Rowan Hall’s Knoxville interior designers can take the guesswork out of the design process, helping you create a space that’s both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re tackling a full renovation or just need help with a room refresh, a designer can guide you through every step and bring your dream home to life.

Ready to start your design journey? Contact Rowan Hall Interiors today and discover how we can transform your home into a space you’ll love for years to come.

Get the Rowan Hall party started!

To get in touch with a member of our team, fill out our contact form.

To discuss a potential project and get more information, schedule a discovery call.

To get started making your home extraordinary, book a consultation.