THE HOST WITH THE MOST

Traci Zeller lets us inside her own home with this classically chic, beautifully layered dining room. The room changes frequently, Traci says, and here, her home is styled for an event. It’s the perfect reminder that interior design isn’t only about complete overhauls or throwing everything out to start anew. Rather, as this interior designer does in her home, artful touches can be added and removed, over and over, to keep a room fresh and timely… and to fulfill your itch for change.

“Most of the room was done years ago, including the window treatments and dining room table and chairs — which proves that investing in classic, quality pieces always provides the best long-term return in decorating,” Traci shares. “The bluepainted chest is the most recent addition to the room, at least in terms of furniture. I purchased it at an antiques fair outside of Paris, during one of my regular trips prior to the pandemic. The paint is original, and the color is exquisite.”

Ashley Smith of Pagoda Event Design is responsible for the gorgeous florals and event decorating, which were added at the time for the holidays.

“To see what she’s able to put together, and how her florals can bring a space to next level decorating for an event, always makes my jaw drop,” Traci says.

“When I’m the client, I get to do exactly what makes my heart sing! This space is a perfect example of that. If I were to redesign the room with what’s on the market today, and as my family’s needs have evolved, I may choose different finishes or pieces, but the feel of the room would be the same. I still love this space, and that’s what I want for my clients — to love a space just as much years after it’s completed (and perhaps after we’ve added more layers with new art or table settings) as they do the day it is installed.”

— info — tracizeller.com @tracizeller