Modern Matter Blog
Get to Know: Hollis Loudon
Celebrity Interior Designer Known for Bold Color, Custom Hardware, and Personal Style
Interior designer Hollis Loudon shares how she creates bold, personalized spaces using custom hardware, gemstone accents, and timeless brass finishes. Explore her design philosophy and favorite Modern Matter pieces.
Why Details Matter in Interior Design: What is it about the small things that make a difference?
A: They say ‘the devil is in the details' and there is no place where I believe that idiom is more applicable than in design. Truly, great interior design, in my opinion, is custom and tailored to the specific client and something like adding a contrast gimp tape trim with sunburst brass nailheads to the base of a settee for example completely changes the vibe of the piece as opposed to perhaps a self-welt. These little design details seem insignificant but they really allow for a piece to mirror the client and invoke a specific feeling.
One of my favorite ways in design to create a custom feel is through the addition of beautiful hardware which is essential ‘jewelry for furniture.’ For example, one client was insistent on having a filing cabinet in their master bedroom and we could not find a beautiful filing cabinet so I simply ordered a basic wood filing cabinet from Home Depot and had Modern Matter backplates and knobs installed; it has now become a conversation piece in the room which always makes me laugh as filing cabinets are not generally considered to be aesthetically pleasing and in this case, the hardware cost more than the cabinet itself!
One of my favorite ways in design to create a custom feel is through the addition of beautiful hardware. Hollis Loudon
Hollis used the Aztec bar pulls on the bedside tables
How Hollis Loudon Translates Client Vision into One‑of‑a‑Kind Spaces: How do you dial in on a client's wishes and leave room for surprise?
I really believe when working with a client it is important to have an open dialogue and communication and make sure it is a fun and collaborative process. Oftentimes I am working with clients for several months at a time or even longer–particularly due to the pandemic and the ongoing supply chain disruptions–and I have actually seen it as a blessing in order to really understand the client on a deeper, more personal level which allows for greater risks to be taken in the design due to a deep trust and understanding that has been fostered. In regards to surprises, I believe most every client knows what they don’t like but I often see many clients’ struggle with what they do like, and when I am able to dial in on what a client does like whether it be a specific motif, color, or decorative element, I work to integrate that into the design in an unexpected way they would have not thought of on their own!
Hollis used the Dogwood knobs in Nickel on her closet doors.
Designing Paige DeSorbo’s Apartment: What excited you most about working with Paige DeSorbo?
Truly what excited me most about working with Paige was being able to collaborate with her as a professional and engage with her in a different capacity. As I have mentioned previously when speaking of our relationship, Paige grew up always wanting to be on television and I always wanted to be a designer and having both of our dreams realized was such an amazing feeling. Having known Paige for so long I have seen her style evolution firsthand- from what she wore to prom back when we were in high school to now what she now wears on the red carpets. I believe having had the privilege to witness this evolution I was able to really understand what style elements are authentically ‘Paige’ and have withstood the test of time and having such great insight into my client from the get-go really allowed me to translate her vision.
Additionally, Paige is (and has always been!) known by her followers for translating designer looks into affordable ensembles so I was really excited to bring that ‘Look for Less’ ethos into the space and challenge myself as a designer to create something luxurious yet affordable and attainable to the masses. By pairing an IKEA dresser and Etsy wooden end tables I had lacquered white with Modern Matter hardware I was able to mix high and low and jazz up two really predictable and affordable pieces without breaking the bank which is exactly what Paige does pairing designer goods with accessible pieces.
I also just love the symbolism behind rose quartz as it is the crystal of unconditional love. Hollis Loudon
Why Powder Rooms Are the Ultimate Design Playground: What is your favorite room to design?
Truly my favorite room to design are powder rooms as they are the only washrooms privy to guests when they enter a home and it has always been my belief as a designer that it is important to ‘give your guests a show.’ These small, tiny rooms are little jewel boxes where you can take major design risks (think a hand-painted carnival ceiling) without committing to a huge room that you will utilize all the time such as your living room, family room or primary bedroom and these little jewel boxes are amazing conversation starters when hosting your guests. While many people would think a more frequented room would be my favorite, there is something about designing a powder room that lights me up- fun patterned wallpaper, lacquer trim and wainscotting in an unexpected color, Waterworks fixtures and Modern Matter hardware are my recipe for a divine powder room.
Power of Meaningful Materials: Do you have a favorite gemstone or metal finish?
Even prior to finding Modern Matter I was a crystal junkie (I am a creative after all and can get a little woo woo at times) and I have always been drawn to rose quartz as my mother had a habit of collecting ‘chunky hearts’ and oftentimes they were made out of gorgeous rose quartz. I also just love the symbolism behind rose quartz as it is the crystal of unconditional love and is said to boost feelings of self-love and foster-loving relationships with others. I am also just a sucker for pink anything. In regards to finish, while there is plenty of debate out there as to whether or not brass is dated I have to say, I have never been one to follow trends and believe that brass is sophisticated and timeless, just like my interiors.
What style is Hollis Loudon known for?
Hollis Loudon is known for bold color, layered textures, and highly personalized interiors that blend drama, elegance, and artistic expression.
How does Hollis Loudon use Modern Matter hardware?
She uses Modern Matter’s gemstone knobs, backplates, and brass pulls to transform everyday furniture into custom, high‑impact design elements.
Why is rose quartz a signature element in Hollis’s designs?
Rose quartz symbolizes love and emotional connection, which aligns with Hollis’s belief that homes should feel meaningful and personal.
