Evan Millard is an Interior Designer based in Nashville, Tennessee.
As far back as I can remember, I’ve had a mind bursting with creativity. At the young age of three, I received my first set of legos and I like to say the rest is history! Since those early years not much has changed. I still play with Legos and I still dream of one day owning and designing a town of my own. When it comes to an aesthetic, I tend to gravitate towards a mix of bold colors & many patterns!⠀⠀
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Nearly 3 years ago I returned to Nashville, TN and founded Modern Remains, an interior design atelier with two dear friends, Betsy & Lauren. I’ll admit, starting a business hasn’t been easy but I wouldn’t trade the long days & late nights for anything! I enjoy the local food scene and like to think I know where the best places are to dine. My partner Shayne and I live just north of Broadway in downtown Nashville with our sleepy-eyed Chinese Sharpei, Bennett.
How did you start your company and what’s your favorite part of what you do?
I met my business partners, Betsy Trabue & Lauren Moore, while studying interior design. After graduation, we designed in the Nashville area & remained friends before starting Modern Remains. For me, working with two friends is the favorite part of what I do. The talents and strengths they each bring to our business really completes our design process.
Describe your style in one sentence.
My personal design style is a mix of traditional & modern with bold colors & patterns.
When designing a room, where’s the best place to start?
Starting with an item a client loves is where I always like to start! While it can be a larger piece, like an antique armoire or chest, inspiration can also be found in a needlepoint work or a silver cup. Encouraging a client to look around to see what they love is always a great place to start.
What’s your advice when purchasing an investment rug?
When purchasing an investment rug, I like to think about what emotion does it need to make one feel and then beginning the search for the perfect one with a reputable vendor. Vendors who are well versed in their craft not only have access to options outside of their current inventory they can typically have anything custom made if unavailable.
Favorite places to shop for home accessories?
One of my favorites is Jason Home, www.jaysonhome.com, in Chicago, IL. They have the widest array of both new & found objects along with living plants & textiles. If you’re ever in Chicago it’s a must stop!
What advice would you give someone looking to define their design style?
When it comes defining your style. I would look to some of the great, both past & present. Pour over their works over and over again tagging anything that you both love and dislike. Sometimes it’s easier to start broad and then go back to try and narrow down the details. Not sure where to start? Look at as many issues of Architectural Digest as possible. Look at what you’re drawn towards & then see who each designer references as inspiration!
If you could take only one thing from your house, what would it be?
If I could one item from my home it would be a set of beautiful blue glass goblets that belonged to my great grandmother. While they may not be priceless, their petite size and coloring has always Intrigued me!
Your go-to playlist at home?
Currently, my favorite playlist is be artist Josh Yoüng, Josh Yoüng Design House.
The best way to spend a weekend.
One of my favorite ways to spend a rainy weekend is on a hammock under a covered porch. Being able to relax and listen to the pattern of the rain is one of the most soothing pastimes.
