Inside Our Process: From Sourcing to Styling
This week marks the final install of a project that’s been quietly unfolding over the past several months—one rooted in warmth, intention, and the kind of understated luxury that reveals itself over time. From the earliest conversations to mood boards and sourcing trips, this home has taken shape with equal parts precision and soul. It’s the kind of project that reminds us why we do what we do. Now, as we prepare to bring it all together on site, we’re reflecting on the creative journey—from sourcing to styling—and the details that brought this vision to life.
One of the most defining aspects of this project—and so many of our projects—is the way Principal Designer, Allie, approaches sourcing. Her ability to walk into familiar stores and still uncover the most unexpected, layered, and thoughtful pieces is a gift. She shops with her clients in mind at every step, intuitively understanding what will resonate with their style and lifestyle. But what makes Allie’s approach stand out is her ability to weave in her own flare—a quiet confidence in the mix, in contrast, in the story of the objects she chooses. It’s not just about what looks good, but about what feels right for the space and the people who live in it. There’s a trust there. A trust that allows her to push the boundaries just enough, introducing a shape, texture, or color a client might not have expected—but ultimately loves. Her sourcing is guided by instinct, experience, and a sharp editorial eye that turns everyday items into key moments within a room.
We sat down with Allie to ask her a few questions about her sourcing and design process, her approach to layering in personal style, and what makes an install like this one feel so complete. Her answers offer a deeper look into the thinking behind the journey.
What is your rule of thumb for layering accessories, like books, bowls, textiles, into a home?
“Well, it really depends on the vibe of the home. My previous boss, Rachel Cannon in Baton Rouge, once told me that an accessory should never be smaller than a grapefruit—and ever since then, I’ve followed that rule. Smaller pieces tend to disappear, especially on a cocktail table or a high shelf where they’re not at eye level. If it’s going on cabinetry or open shelving—especially in the kitchen—visibility matters. The higher the shelf, the larger the accessory should be. So as a general rule: nothing smaller than a grapefruit.”
How would you describe the difference between Tower’s styling compared to another design firms styling?
“You’re styling a home to live in it. And I’m all about layering. When I say ‘layered,’ I don’t just mean placing objects in front of each other. It’s more about mixing time and texture—pairing something old with something new, an antique with something polished, or a family heirloom next to modern books. That’s where the depth comes from. It’s not just visual layering—it’s emotional and story telling That’s what makes a space feel personal.”
How do you ensure a space feels lived in and not just ‘decorated’?
“A space feels truly lived in when it reflects personality—when it’s not sterile or overly staged. I often walk into homes that haven’t been professionally designed, and they just feel... flat. The rugs are usually too small, and there’s no depth or character. We get a lot of feedback about how we style and layer, but for me, it’s not just about how we do it—it’s about what we choose. I always tell clients, you won’t be afraid to sit on your furniture when we’re done. It’s beautiful, but it’s also functional and comfortable. I’m really particular about seat heights, depths, and angles. Barstools, sofas, chairs—they should look great, but more importantly, they should be used and enjoyed.”
Every home has a story—let us help you tell yours. Whether you're starting from scratch or searching for the pieces that make it feel complete, we’d love to help you bring your space to life. Reach out to begin your sourcing and styling journey with us.