Vision, Inhabited
Interior design begins with vision, but it’s shaped through collaboration. These four Ocala designers reveal spaces that embody both—and the insight that helps bring them to life.
David Gadlage
THIS DESIGN
Both of these rooms are in the same house — the formal living room and the “man cave.” The clients are people I’ve worked for for years, and this is the fourth house that I helped them with. My primary job was to find the best home for the pieces they kept and fill in the gaps with the things they needed. My secondary job was putting down the rugs, arranging the furniture, and hanging their extensive art collection.
ADVICE ON WORKING WITH DESIGNERS
A lot of people think hiring a designer is an expense that can be spared, but if used correctly a designer can actually save you monty by presenting mistakes. Choose a designer who’s work you’ve seen and liked, listen well, and be prepared to make lots of decisions with lots of help. And try to enjoy the creative process.
Amy Alvarado
THIS DESIGN
Set within a one-of-a-kind aviation community, this living space was designed to celebrate the home’s architecture and its remarkable surroundings. Expansive windows provide striking views that inspired the layout and overall direction of the space. The curved sectional was thoughtfully selected in response to the sweeping window line, allowing the seating to follow the architecture while maintaining unobstructed views. Soft bouclé upholstery contrasts beautifully with the carved stone fireplace, creating a balance between comfort and architectural presence. Sculptural furnishings and carefully layered textures add depth while maintaining a refined palette. The result is a sophisticated yet welcoming environment that supports everyday living while offering an elevated setting for gathering and entertaining.
ADVICE ON WORKING WITH DESIGNERS
Hire a designer whose style you trust, then allow them to do what they do best. Limit outside opinions, communicate openly, and stay committed to the plan. Consistency is what creates beautiful, cohesive results. Great design takes planning, patience, and collaboration, and the best outcomes happen when clients and designers work as a true team, trusting the process from beginning to completion.
✦ alvahouseofstyle.com info@alvahouseofstyle.com<br>954-655-7773
Kiah Manning
THIS DESIGN
Modern Meets Island Ease. Two anchor pieces, one cohesive story. This project began with a sleek modern dining set paired—unexpectedly—with a Tommy Bahama TV console. The challenge? Make contrast feel intentional, not accidental. Clean lines met relaxed island warmth as we layered textures, softened edges, and balanced tones throughout the home. Each adjoining space was edited to echo both influences—modern structure and coastal ease—creating flow without sameness. The result is a home that feels curated, not matched: elevated, inviting, and effortlessly connected from room to room, where every piece feels like it belongs.
ADVICE ON WORKING WITH DESIGNERS
These clients came in prepared—with photos of what we’re keeping, measurements, and a clear sense of how they live. That clarity allowed me to design with precision instead of guesswork. It’s always a gift when a client shows up ready, and I’m genuinely grateful for the trust they placed in me to bring it all together.
✦ emanning@hudsonsfurniture.com
Jennie Holland
THIS DESIGN
During our first meeting, our clients, Dr. Corey & Christine Miller, shared a custom copper artwork they discovered while traveling out west. We were asked to find the perfect place for it in their new home, and the office proved to be the ideal setting. Other meaningful pieces include the piano, still played often, and a bronze horse figurine.
Designing a room around personal, one-of-a-kind pieces establishes the mood and anchors every decision that follows. To enhance this foundation, we introduced architectural layers with wainscoting and natural grasscloth on the walls, along with beams and tongue-and-groove detailing on the ceiling. These elements frame the serene, ever-changing views of the gardens and grazing horses just beyond the window.
{Contractor: Southern Heritage Developers, Photo: Maven Photo & Film}
ADVICE ON WORKING WITH DESIGNERS
While we often joke about all the pretty things we can put into a space, interior designers handle so much more than the eyes see. We take our time to get to know our clients — from what they like to do as a family, their kids’ interests, to all about their pets — so we can create a home that functions effortlessly for everyone. We strive to bring cohesion from room-to-room while balancing classic traditional details with potentially trendy moments — which also helps avoid costly mistakes. Ultimately, we want our clients to feel confident and at peace with each decision we help them make. Extra bonus points if they have a little fun along the way!
✦ www.jhollandinteriors.com (863) 632-0252