Houston-based designer Julie Dodson sheds light on a few of her tips and tricks of the trade.
Texas designer Julie Dodson incorporates pops of color and unique pieces of artwork into a traditional space. PHOTO BY SUSIE DODSON
It only made sense that Tom and Hetty Ball opted to swap their single-family home for a Memorial Park midrise condo. The newly retired couple knew exactly what they wanted in a residence: a contemporary, family-friendly space offering the flexibility to “lock and leave.” For starters, both are avid travelers—not to mention private pilots with a shared passion for vintage aircraft. (They even own a rare World War II P-51 Mustang.) The pair also love to entertain, which often includes visits from their two young grandchildren.
Houston interior designer Julie Dodson (dodsoninteriors.com) was an ideal fit for the project, creating a fresh, fun, eminently livable space. With comfort and low maintenance being top priorities, she combined indoor-outdoor fabrics, colorful artwork and just enough whimsy to allow the eye to wander.
“Julie made sure all the beautiful fabrics were high-wear and stain-resistant,” says Hetty. “We constantly appreciate—and marvel—that our active 2-year-old grandson can play on the furniture and it still looks fabulous.”
Except for the dining room table and chairs—which were reupholstered to coordinate with the home’s swoonworthy color palette—all furnishings, draperies and accessories were custom designed or purchased specifically for the space. “Julie was able to grasp exactly what we wanted and translate that into selecting lovely pieces that reflect our personalities so well,” says Hetty.
Since starting Dodson Interiors in 2002, Dodson has built a portfolio that balances Hollywood glam with fresh French style. She is also the founder and driving force of Designer Dream Spree, an annual event instrumental in establishing the Round Top antique shows as a must-see destination nationwide. Among the activities slated for fall 2021 is a Farmhouse Showcase, which will team notable architects with celebrity designers to reimagine historic structures in Fayette County.
