The Designer’s Journal: Ellen Godfrey Brings Bold Color & Playful Charm to a Nashville Home

When designer Ellen Godfrey set out to transform a newly renovated home in Nashville for a family of five, she knew it needed to reflect their style and personality. “The house had recently been renovated by real estate developers, and there was no color or personality left in the home,” Ellen shares. With her creative touch, she crafted a space that’s both sophisticated and playful, seamlessly blending classic design with a vibrant spirit that suits the family’s dynamic.

From colorful kid zones to custom built-ins that add warmth and texture, Ellen’s thoughtful design choices have turned this house into a true home. Below, she walks us through her inspiration, favorite design moments, and the pieces that made this project shine.

Image Credit: @maryrosenbaumphoto

Where do you draw your design inspiration from?

I love drawing design inspiration from film and television. There are so many movies I consider touchstones for a certain vibe and color palette. I also love design books that take you through a single house or project, diving deep into the nitty-gritty of the decisions made.

Can you share your design ethos?

My goal is to create beautiful, classic spaces that are both functional and deeply reflective of the people who call them home—because how a space makes you feel matters!

What’s your favorite way to create a statement-making moment?

Wallpaper! Always wallpaper.

Can you tell us about your favorite piece of decor in your own home?

My dad is an artist, and I have a handful of his old oil paintings in our home. They are my most treasured possessions. I’ve noticed that the colors I naturally gravitate toward often appear in these paintings.

What’s your favorite Schoolhouse product?

I keep coming back to Schoolhouse bedding—especially the quilts. They have the perfect weight and feel, and I absolutely love them!

Let’s get into the project you recently completed, can you tell us about it?

This Nashville, Tennessee, home belongs to a family with three little kids. While most of the house feels neutral and sophisticated, we wanted the kids’ spaces to be colorful and playful.

What was the biggest challenge you faced in bringing this project to life?

This house had recently been renovated by real estate developers, leaving it without color or personality. Our job was to bring in layers of color, which we did structurally by adding plenty of built-in cabinetry. Everything we had built was either stained wood or painted in a vibrant hue.

Are there any fun facts about the projects?

The original trim work and windows in this house were stunning, and the high ceilings were a real treat too!