Interview with Aspire Design and Home
Designer Friday: An aspire Exclusive Interview With Andi Morse
Some people are lucky enough to be born with “it” — Andi Morse is one of them. A lifelong lover of fashion and interiors, Andi’s journey began at The Ohio State University’s Communications program, where she met her future husband, Gordon. Though her relationship stuck, Ohio did not, and she transplanted herself back to her home state at the University of Georgia in Athens. Fast forward just a short time, and Andi not only earned the title “graduate,” but “wife,” too. Over the next few years, Andi and Gordon relocated to New York City and then Boston for career opportunities before making their way back to Andi’s hometown of Atlanta. During this time, they welcomed three children—all girls: Jessica, Madeline, and Carly. For many years, Andi happily focused on motherhood. But after her two youngest children embarked on their college careers, she knew it was time — her time. She reignited a passion when she dove headfirst into her interior design after a friend asked her to decorate their child’s room. This project (which was a total success) led to many client referrals, and before she knew it, Andi found herself at the helm of a thriving business — her thriving business. Morse Design was in demand not only in Atlanta, but beyond, thanks to Andi’s Southern hospitality and coveted soft modern aesthetic, commitment to family-friendly design, and her ability to truly connect with her clients. Whether it’s a full home transformation, new build, kitchen or bath renovation, or single room refresh, Andi’s upbeat, happy energy translates into each of her projects, resulting in happy homeowners who love coming home.
This kitchen represents two years of meticulous planning and collaboration between Andi Morse and close friends, culminating in a space where every cabinet has its purpose. Photo Credit: Heidi Harris
Andrew Joseph: Can you describe a project that you’re particularly proud of?
Andi Morse: I’m really proud of the kitchen renovation for Enclave Drive (pictured above). This was a project that was 2 years in the making. It’s the home of a good friend so I wanted it to be perfect for them. We planned out every detail down to what each cabinet would store. It was fun because I got to work with such a good friend and also it turned out more beautiful than I imagined. It was what I call a happy project. Happy to begin, happy while it was happening, and happy with the ending! A gorgeous new kitchen!
AJ: How do you stay creative and inspired?
Andi Morse: The best way for me to stay creative and inspired is with travel. Being able to go to other cities and countries and soaking up that atmosphere is rejuvenating and inspiring at the same time. It’s relaxing because I’m out of my element and not on such a tight schedule and because of that my mind relaxes. I’m able to soak in all that I see and notice nuances that I might miss on a busy day. It is so fun to be out of my element and enjoy each minute of the day without thinking about the next steps all the time.
The rich, dark island and matching accents anchor the kitchen’s bright white palette, providing a grounded visual contrast that enhances the warmth of the wooden floors. Together, they create a balanced and inviting space that feels both open and cozy. Photo Credit: Heidi Harris
AJ: What is your favorite aspect of your job?
Andi Morse: My favorite aspect of design is that every day is different. I am constantly running around and doing very specific tasks in design. I may have the same process for each project I take on, but that doesn’t mean it involves the same actions each time. One day I may be selecting tiles and countertops. The next day I’m at ADAC selecting fabrics for furnishings. That same week I may be on my computer doing furniture and kitchen plans, too. It keeps me on my toes, in shape, and is invigorating. It never gets boring!
AJ: How do you approach designing for different types of clients?
Andi Morse: Getting to know my clients is very important to be able to create the design of their dreams. I like to have them create Pinterest boards as a first step to give me an idea of what they like. It’s amazing the information I can get from people pinning rooms that may be all in the same color family or all neutrals. Are they pinning lots of sectionals or just sofas and chairs? Do they like lots of white or color? The list can go on forever. It’s a really easy way for clients to help me and most seem to enjoy it. It’s also really important to ask lots of questions. I like to find out how they live their life, the activities they enjoy and don’t enjoy, and whether they entertain or prefer going out. All of these little details give me tons of information. I use the same process for every client which helps to keep the project organized, but depending on what the actual project entails will dictate the actual approach.
Continuing the balancing of black and white in this kitchen, the crisp white dishware pops against the matte black cabinetry. Photo Credit: Heidi Harris
AJ: Best advice you’d give your teenage self?
Andi Morse: The best advice would be to not be afraid. When I was younger I was fearful of trying new things because I was too worried about failing. Not sure why I thought failing was the end of the world, but I did. It might be that I have a bit of a perfectionist personality so when I do something I want it done to perfection and to turn out exactly the way I thought it would. Being fearful stops you from doing and trying new things. You won’t know if you can grow and learn without trying them. If you fail, so what! It happens. You can keep trying or move on to something else. You won’t know if you don’t try. I do think the most wonderful things happen when you try what you are most afraid of and realize that you can do it or not. Failing is not necessarily the end.