Designer Spotlight on Melissa Hall Simmons
Since 2008, Studio MH has specialized in creating timeless, bespoke spaces through a seamless integration of architecture, interior design, and décor. Led by founder Melissa Hall Simmons, the studio’s portfolio spans historic renovations, modern residences, rural farmhouses, urban condominiums, and select hospitality environments.
Studio MH is recognized for its ability to bring vision, functionality, and beauty together at scale. MIXD Gallery recently had the honor of collaborating with the talented team on the art curation for the Walton Arts Center Friends Lounge redesign and we’re thrilled to share a snippet from the interview with Melissa that came out of that opportunity. Without further ado. . .
MIXD: What led you to select the artwork you did for the beautiful Friends lounge at Walton Arts Center?
MELISSA HALL SIMMONS: It was important to Walton Arts Center that our first consideration in selecting art for the spaces was to look to our local community of artists and businesses. With that in mind, I knew Allison and her team at MIXD Gallery would be the perfect partner for our art curation. Their catalog revealed a diverse selection of media, styles, and techniques that aligned perfectly with our design vision, featuring a cohesive color palette and mood.
M: Amazing! To that point, in what ways do you like to encourage other clients to live with art and how do you help them with their selections?
MHS: We absolutely love to be a part of the art selection process! Of course art is very personal, but I’d like to think that through our design process and the time we spend getting to know our clients, we’ve extracted and learned enough that we can help and not hinder the process. We usually start by defining the mood for the space, exploring artists they’re drawn to, and tapping our art world sources to uncover fresh options.
M: Are there guiding principles you tend to follow when choosing art for interiors?
MHS: Art speaks to everyone differently, so I can only share from my own perspective. When curating for myself, I choose pieces I immediately love—if I connect with it, I know it will work in my space. Equally important is editing: giving each piece room to have a voice. Too much art can feel noisy, so I prefer selections that complement the design rather than overwhelm it. A gallery wall can be wonderful, but not in every room or on every surface.
M: What inspires your creative process, and are there particular references you rely on?
MHS: It may sound cliché, but travel is everything for me. I just returned from Mallorca, and came back brimming with new ideas and goals for both my personal life and my work.
