Amber Guyton is the founder of Blessed Little Bungalow, an interior design firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. A passionate champion for personal finance, she believes that interior design should not be a luxury reserved for the privileged few and is committed to democratizing the industry one home at a time. A lover of soulful maximalism, Amber has served dozens of clients across the country designing colorful, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing residential and commercial projects. Amber has been featured and recognized by notable organizations and publications such as HGTV Magazine, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Forbes, Ebony, Apartment Therapy, Domino, Hunker, Real Simple, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Atlanta Magazine’s HOME, Good Housekeeping, and many more.
How did you become an interior designer?
I’ve always loved and enjoyed decorating since I was a child. I started Blessed Little Bungalow in 2016 as a hobby and creative outlet. I recently moved into a renovated 1948 bungalow in San Antonio, Texas and decorated it in less than a week. I began blogging about my own home and offered my design services as a side hustle to pay off consumer debt. After 5 years of building the business and working with dozens of clients, it grew into a nationally known design firm and brand. In 2021, I left my fintech marketing career and became a full-time entrepreneur, interior designer, and content creator. It’s been an incredible journey and I feel like I’m just getting started.
What’s a recent client project that you absolutely loved designing? What about it made you excited?
I love designing in FULL COLOR. Project Rosé Room was a project where my clients allowed me to take full creative control and add color and pattern to my heart’s desire. These are the most enjoyable projects for me and shine the most in my portfolio.
It’s a sign of trust from my clients that I’m so grateful for and highlights my authenticity and risk-taking as a designer.
Photo by INDIGO Creative Agency 2024 – Mecca Gamble McConnell
You recently used one of our wallpaper patterns in a client project – tell us about how you chose it, and what was your client’s reaction?
For Project Black Canvas, my client was already in love with Otto Studio. She had Uzo Njoku’s Fulawa in her foyer, and wanted to incorporate another pattern in her home office. Since she already loved the blue paint in her office space, we decided to elevate the design further by adding Uzo Njoku’s Jamboree to the ceiling, then bring it into the attached bathroom to complete the room. Once a forgotten basement space, the wallpaper completely transformed the space into one my client loved to spend time in to work, create, and dream.
What makes Otto Studio’s products stand out and why do you like to use them?
I love to say that I decorate with “Black faces in all the spaces.” When I first saw Otto Studio’s products, I immediately stopped in my tracks. The products celebrate Blackness, diversity, and offer patterns you don’t see from the masses. I appreciate the originality and artsy POV that Otto Studio offers for interior designers and consumers to adorn their homes with.
What’s your favourite Otto Studio pattern?
I love so many of Otto Studio’s patterns, but my favorites are definitely Jamboree and There Was A Country. Each just exudes Black Joy, the importance of family, and togetherness. I smile every time I see them.
How do you use wallpaper on accent walls and in unexpected places?
If I could, I’d add wallpaper to every project I touch. I love putting wallpaper on ceilings, in small unexpected places, and anywhere to transform a space. Wallpaper also makes spaces feel more tailored and custom than paint as it instantly turns a blank wall into a piece of art.
Photo by INDIGO Creative Agency 2024 – Mecca Gamble McConnell
What drives your creative inspiration? How do you come up with new ideas for your projects?
I focus on the client. During the consultation process, I try to learn as much about them as I can. Their family, their past, present and future, their likes and dislikes, what they are passionate about, and what brings them joy. I draw inspiration from those things, their travels, upbringing, and what will make them feel seen and safe in their homes. From there, they trust me to run wild with my imagination and create a design that celebrates who they are.
What are your best design tips for new DIYers?
Similar to fashion, I love mixing highs and lows. Don’t be afraid to mix higher ticket items (West Elm) with inexpensive products (Wayfair) and DIY or thrifting items to meet your budget. Not buying everything new also helps the space feel more intentional and collected versus staged.
What are your best design tips for someone who has moved into a brand new space? How should they go about starting to think through the design?
Interior design is a marathon, not a sprint. Rushing to decorate often leads to regret, buyer’s remorse, and costly mistakes. Take your time, invest in quality and timeless pieces, and only bring items in the space that bring you joy!
What’s your words of wisdom for others who are interested in becoming an interior designer?
Start where you are and know that your gifts will make room for you.