The Heart Behind Timeless Design with Galey Grimes

Dec 16

Today’s episode of Highly Affected By Her Surroundings brings a thoughtful, soulful look at design through the eyes of Tennessee based designer Galey Grimes. Her rooms are warm, layered, and quietly luxurious, and they always feel like home. In this conversation, Nicole and Galey explore what truly makes design timeless and why the heart behind a home matters more than anything else.

Designing for Real Life, Not Perfect Life

Galey shares how her design philosophy centers on understanding the lifestyle, habits, and values of each family she works with. From the placement of a dishwasher to the durability of upholstery, functional luxury sits at the core of her approach.

Honoring Story Through Vintage and Heirloom Layers

A standout theme in this episode is the beauty of incorporating pieces with history. Galey believes every room needs at least one vintage item. It could be art, a sconce, a brass figure, or a family heirloom. These pieces add soul, weight, and a sense of place.

Southern Style Without the Clichés

Raised in historic Memphis neighborhoods, Galey understands the richness of Southern architecture. She shares simple ways to refresh traditional spaces through lighting, tailored drapery, and thoughtful material choices. The goal is a home that feels rooted but fresh.

Motherhood and Creativity

Both Nicole and Galey reflect on how motherhood reshapes their perspective as designers. It heightens the importance of function, boundaries, and self worth. It also deepens their desire to create homes that support the real lives of families.

Inside the Vesta Home Show

Galey offers a behind the scenes look into her recent Vesta Home Show project, from selecting materials to creating a color drenched dining room that became the heart of the home. She shares how designing without a traditional client allowed her to follow her own instincts and vision.

What Keeps Her Grounded

Family, nature, scent, books, and quiet moments of stillness fuel her creativity. These small rituals help her reset and approach each project with clarity.

A Final Word of Advice

Trust your gut. Be authentic to your voice. And say no when you need to. Timeless design begins with confidence in yourself and deep consideration for the people you serve.