AtHome Feature | Go for the Gold

Date: July 2025 |   Producers: Stephanie Maxwell Newton and Haley Rodden  

Congratulations to the Arkansas winners of the American Society of Interior Design South Central Chapter’s 2025 Excellence in Design Awards.

Gold Winner
Residential: Kitchen

Legacy New Construction
Natalie Biles, ASID, RID, and Ashley Fiant, ASID,
Shine Interior Design Studio

This new construction kitchen was thoughtfully designed for family connection and functionality. The client desired a warm, cozy, and vintage-inspired space with ample room for shared meal prep and baking. The designer developed a carefully planned layout with an additional prep sink, creating two efficient work triangles that allow multiple family members to cook together comfortably. Rich wood cabinetry adds warmth and depth, complemented by a soft green-gray island for contrast. Custom leaded glass windows introduce a vintage-inspired detail while filtering natural light and ensuring privacy from close neighbors. Every element was selected to enhance both aesthetics and practicality, resulting in a timeless and inviting kitchen that balances beauty, efficiency, and the joy of cooking together as a family.

OVATION AWARD WINNER

Gold Winner
Residential: Large Residence

Gibbs New Construction
Natalie Biles, ASID, RID,
Shine Interior Design Studio

This 3,600-square-foot new construction home was designed for a near-empty-nest couple seeking a timeless yet comfortable retreat. The designer joined the project during the framing stage and followed directives for a neutral, comfortable backdrop while pushing the client to explore colors, textures, and patterns. One unique challenge of this project was the clients’ primary location: They lived in Seattle while constructing the home in Arkansas. The design team utilized digital design boards, mailed sample boxes, and had a few in-person meetings while executing the design long-distance. The final product balances classic elegance with modern livability.