Get to know Linda: designer & owner — Linda Chittock Studio

Where did you get your education and what did you study?

I grew up in public schools moving about every 3-4 years to a new state or a different country. So that in itself was an adventure in education, that I have never taken for granted. When it was time for college I applied at couple different schools but my heart was set on Stephens College in Columbia Missouri. A small private Liberal Arts college for women that had a strong and wonderful design school. I graduated in 1981 with a BFA in Fashion Design.

When did you know you wanted to be an interior designer?

From a fashion career to interior design was really an organic process. I had paused my career after getting married, and starting a family. My husband David, aka Mr C found 12 acres of land with an ole historical farm house that needed a lot of work. It was going to be a perfect place for a house full of boys to play and explore the outdoors. With a lot of research, hard work, creativity, patience, and prayers, the construction and remodeling Terra Granum became a home. With our love of architecture and creative design Terra Granum also became my new creative canvas. Before I knew it I was helping friends with their existing homes or new builds while trying to learn the business of design. Then an architect asked if I would partner with him for 4 story apartment building with a local developer. With much trepidation yet excited for the opportunity, I jumped in to create classic interiors while being challenged and learning more everyday. Upon completion I knew my design career would slowly move in a different direction.

What inspired you to start your own business?

What inspired me to start my own business initially it was the importance of wanting to be home for our boys. I yearned for a creative business that would challenge me yet provide flexible hours. So when the youngest son started kindergarten it was 1998 and we opened Linda Chittock Studio, the hours were 9-3:00.

What’s been the most challenging aspect of the business to build?

I think the most challenging aspect of having your own business is trying to balance it all; faith, family life, design work with continuing education. While trying to find time to volunteer and give back. It takes dedication in improving time management and organizational skills. But in the end I always knew I needed to have a creative outlet to stay healthy and thrive. And what better way than by building relationships with your clients and discovering their needs to create a timeless, beautiful home of their dreams.

Outside of your work, how do you like to spend your personal time? Such as hobbies, etc.

Hobbies and interest outside of design would be; first and foremost time with my beloved Mr C and our growing family, as I am a proud new Nana. My faith journey is forever important. Our favorite non-profit company is Hope Markers. Traveling domestic or international, I can never get enough. I am a pescatarian who loves healthy eating, exercising, coffee and fine wine. Being active outdoors is always inspiring, as God is the best creator of all. Gardening, having my hands in the soil, planting and caring for florals and vegetables is truly therapeutic. I do need to spend more time reading instead of always sketching and doodling.

Heartwood Cafe’ collaboration for Hope Markers

Are you a sweet or savory treat kind of person?

Savory first then the sweetness of dark chocolate.

What's your favorite color to work with?

My favorite color to work with is always green and in all shades, green provides renewal in life, and feelings of abundance. To me its refreshing, happy, while providing security. A few of my favorite greens can be found in right in our own, Linda Chittock Shoppe.

What's your dream vacation?

A dream vacation, hmmm that’s hard question as there are so many wonderful and exciting places to explore. Kenya again and more of Africa, Ireland and Scotland, Norway and Sweden, Portugal & Spain, southern France, and Greece. State side the list is long; Montana, Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, more of Texas, and Colorado again. Where there’s warmth and sunshine I am ready.

Who has inspired your work the most?

The creativity and designs of our interiors or products are always inspired by our clients. Discovering their vision for their interiors and lifestyle is where it all begins. Next we study the design of the architecture, as it leads the way in scale, light, functionality and style. Overall our projects are usually a blend in style of modern and classic interiors.

Interior designers that I admired and are inspired by are Charlotte Moss, Kelly Wearstler, Barry Dixon, Madeleine Castaing, and newer designers Kristen Thomas and Marie Flanigan. And of course the legendary Oscar De La Renta for fashion and interiors.

What's your favorite part of your career?

My favorite part of design is researching and creating the schematics for the project, the other favorite part is upon completion when your client is happy, excited and pleased with the final results for a beautiful and inviting home.