Hidden Gems: Meet Lauren Elder of Lauren Elder Interiors

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Elder

Hi Lauren, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2011 I started working for a builder and we opened a furniture store as a side hustle. The combination of these things taught me all of the beauty of building and interiors. Fast forward to 2017 I branched out on my own. My vast knowledge of building and love for furnishings sets me apart because I’m not just a decorator. Clients reach out to me because I can guide them through every step of the home building and furnishing process. My team and I also provide designs and selections for many builders in Nashville and Williamson County.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course not. I pride myself of being an expert in the field and It took a long time to learn enough, with zero formal training, to get over “impostor syndrome”. Also being a woman, in a male dominated field has its own challenges. Covid brought its own unique set of issues, builders were afraid to build anything, and then inventory was low so we designed almost 250 spec houses in 2021 to help them keep up. The ups and downs of interiors, and the hurdles of shipping and delays since 2020 still has us constantly on edge. The most recent hurdle is that all of our trades are retiring. The generation of people that work with their hands is disappearing but we are finally seeing young people get involved in wood working, upholstery, and installation. This is exciting but requires lots of trust and trials by fire. Deadlines have to be met and when someone calls and says “this is my last project” but you’ve already submitted proposals for that trade you have to get creative. I love all of the bumps in the road (most days) and I’m fortunate to call this industry mine.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I used to think my downfall was that I didn’t have a “Style”. Lots of designers you can look at their work and tell who did it. I feel that i’m actually very well rounded and can accomplish an array of looks and styles rather than forcing “my look” on a client. I’m proud of the fact that I can build a farm house, or remodel music studio in downtown Nashville.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I LOVE THE SHIFT. Clients are so over exposed to homes and spaces on social media they are striving for unique and special. No more white house, black windows. No more all white rooms. People are back to wanting antiques, and warm cozy separated rooms. Its about to get very 1997 up in here!!!!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.laurenelderinteriors.com
• Instagram: @laurenashleyelder