Amanda Holliday, founder and principal of Amanda Brooke Interiors, is an American designer based in Houston, Texas. From an early age, Amanda was drawn to aesthetics and the creative, first pursuing a degree in the fashion industry and then returning to study interior design. After working for many years in commercial and residential design, she opened her firm in 2019. 

With a keen eye for quality and style, and an incessant exploration of material, form, color and space, Amanda’s design approach is an intuitive balance of both contemporary and vintage, architectural and organic; creating a unique sensory experience tailored to each client and their journey. She is an expert in experiential storytelling through your space.

1. Could you tell us how your journey into interior design started?

My journey into design was unexpected and truly organic. I originally had my heart set on a career in fashion, aspiring to be a buyer. While pursuing my BA in Fashion Merchandising, I worked full-time for a commercial developer, where I assisted in designing common areas and model units for multifamily projects. On weekends, I collaborated with a friend on her business, designing model apartments, and occasionally took on fun projects for friends and family. 

When it came time for my internship, I found the fashion sector lacking in opportunities that excited me. So, I decided to create my own internship with a local high-end designer who owned a chic retail storefront. Although I was offered a position after my internship, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Still, that experience sparked my interest in design and led me to enroll in an online interior design program based in London. A few months into the program, I started researching design firms that aligned with my aesthetic. I proactively reached out, either emailing or personally delivering my resume to as many firms as possible. This initiative opened the door to an incredible opportunity at a high-end boutique firm about five to six months later. I was allowed to dip my toes into all aspects of the business. And that’s where my adventure in interior design truly began!

2. Do you think there has been a defining moment in your career?

Not yet. I still feel like I’m just getting started and have so much more to offer the world!

3. What do you think is the key to a successful interior design? And in your business in general?

Never stop learning, there is ALWAYS room to grow (both personally and professionally). I try to stay at the forefront of the industry as far as technology and social is concerned. I’ve allowed myself and my team to try new things and fail- It’s the only way to learn and find the magic. Collaborate and speak with others in the industry- it helps keep the creative spark alive. And remember, there is room for everyone to succeed. The market is not too saturated. 

This process is largely driven by the client. I take the time to truly understand their lifestyle and preferences, using that insight to shape the initial phase of the project. Sometimes it starts with their existing furniture, other times it’s a piece of artwork or the unique architecture of their home or project environment. In every case, the client remains central, ensuring the design authentically represents who they are.

5. How would you define your signature style? Do you have “a mantra” that encapsulates your taste in design?

I don’t have a mantra, but if I had to choose a style, I’d say Modern European. European design has always been it for me.

6. Could you tell us about one of your favorite projects that you worked on?

We have several favorites, but a couple of our current projects are rising to the top. We’ll be photographing them soon!

7. What was one of the hardest learned lessons in your journey?

Take action to strengthen your accounting team immediately, and be cautious in trusting others until they have proven themselves. Unfortunately, it’s necessary.

8. What was the best advice you have received in your path?

Avoid living beyond your means and aim to minimize overhead for as long as possible. Many people start their own business thinking they need an office and a full team, especially during busy seasons, only to struggle when activity slows down. This is normal. Prepare for it.

9. What would be your advice to beginner interior designers?

Just get started. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect or for all of the answers. Launch what you have and revise along the way.

10. What are your favorite pieces from the Philia Collection?

11. Are there any books/podcasts you would like to recommend to our readers?

I don’t listen to or read many interior design podcasts or books anymore, but when I first started my business, I enjoyed “A Well Designed Business” with LuAnn Nigara. 

What I find most interesting and valuable now are general business success stories, and no one does it better than “How I Built This” with Guy Raz.

12. Finally, what are your upcoming projects? Anything you’d like to share or add to the interview?

Two of our residential projects are nearing completion and will be photographed and featured in the next couple of months. We’re excited to share what we’ve been working on! 

Thank you for the opportunity to share with you! Excited to see what 2025 has to offer! Cheers and Happy Holidays!