Design Dossier: Amy Musarra

Amy was one of the youngest—if not youngest—chairpersons of one of the country’s longest-running showhouses, the Atlanta Symphony Associates’ Decorators’ Show House & Gardens. This year, she serves as the design chair for the Show House. The University of Georgia grad also manages special events and projects for the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center. Get to know more about her below:

Describe Atlanta in three words: A Steel Magnolia

Design in Atlanta is… growing. I think Atlantans have a wonderful ability to hold onto their roots while evolving with the future. I’m starting to see more gutsy design in traditional places….and I like it.

Where did you go on your last vacation? I went to Italy for my honeymoon. We started in Bologna, the culinary capital of Italy, and completely indulged our food obsession. Then we went to my favorite city, Florence, where I spent my mornings meditating in the few but monumental buildings by Filippo Brunelleschi.  I did an independent study on him in college and the passion and memories came flooding back.

What’s the best thing about your job? People. It’s where I get my energy and inspiration. I love getting to meet and work with lots of different people every day, especially interesting and creative ones. It keeps my mind fresh and open.

What’s the last good movie you’ve watched? Silver Linings Playbook. I love crazy people so much….and laughter through tears of course.

Local designers or places that you think will be the next big thing are… Kelly Crago Hansen Interiors, KR Steakbar and the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center. ADAC, an Atlanta institution, is a phoenix and I believe it will once again be recognized and relevant as the greatest source for all things fabulous in interior design.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received? Be on time (My first boss). The cream always rises to the top. (My parents)

What’s next for you in 2013? This year’s ASO Decorator’s Show House opens April 20!