Community Highlights: Meet Shonte Walton of Fabric & Finish Interior Design

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shonte Walton.

Hi Shonte, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Of course! I am Shonte’ Walton the owner and principal designer of Fabric & Finish Interior Design Co. based here in Nashville, TN. My passion for design began to take shape when I was about 6 years old, when my father was building our family home. During that process, I found myself wanting to help and also learn how to use his tools. My father welcomed my interest and overtime, taught me many trade skills.

It wasn’t until I graduated from Dillard University with a degree in mathematics and computer science that a career in design began to form. The period of time between graduating and not finding a job was one of the most pivotal points of my career, little did I know.

It was during that time that I was able to reflect on my life and identify my true interest; ultimately uncovering that my love for the built environment was always there. With those experiences in mind, I went back to school in pursuit of a master’s degree in Interior Architecture. After graduating, I moved to Nashville to work with the State of Tennessee as an interior designer/ project manager. For about 6 years, I traveled throughout the entire state coordinating with many agencies such as the department of human services to design and furnish, built-to-suit, and renovation projects. It was with this position that I was able to witness firsthand the impact that design has on the human experience.

Contrary to popular belief, interior design isn’t just about beautifying spaces. Design influences the subconscious mind and when executed with intention, it has the unique ability to improve quality of life. That is why I started Fabric & Finish Interior Design Co. My goal is to take interior design beyond what looks good and help my clients see the full potential of their space through the lens of environmental psychology. I design spaces to create harmony between humankind, nature, and the built environment.

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?
It has not always been a smooth road, but I have had so many blessings along the way that I realized that challenges are there for the purpose of growth. The biggest thing that I’ve had to overcome as a business owner thus far was the call to entrepreneurship and the statistical doubt. I knew that my business needed to exist in the world, but like many others, I didn’t initially believe that this journey was for me.

There is not a lot of representation of minorities in the interior design industry, especially in the commercial real estate market. Realizing that ANYTHING can be done, allowed me to push past self-imposed fears and all other challenges I have experienced in the business.

We’ve been impressed with Fabric & Finish Interior Design Co., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Fabric & Finish is an interior design firm that specializes in residential and small commercial projects. The foundational driver for all projects is environmental psychology focusing on the well-being of humankind. I am proud to be among the 3% of African American designers in the industry, with aspirations to inspire the next generation to pursue creative careers in fields such as design and architecture.

I work with business owners, religious institutions, real estate agents, Airbnb hosts, and homeowners, offering a full spectrum of services from full-service design to model staging, space planning, material selection, and procurement.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
One of the most important lessons I have learned thus far is to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. This is a statement that I heard several times before becoming a business owner, but it is in fact one of the most beneficial mindset shifts.

Starting a business has many twists, turns, and situations where you may be doing something for the first time, but that’s the beauty of the journey. That mindset shift allows you to get out of your own way and uncover many hidden treasures along your path.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.fabricandfinish.com
• Instagram: @fabricandfinish