The town of Malvern is a special place for Linda Ritter. It’s not only where she lives with her husband, Bryce—it’s also where she’s been in business for the past six years, in the form of UpHome. The décor shop is filled with custom antique reproduction furnishings made by her husband, treasures she’s found on her annual buying trips in France, and various accessories.
Decorating style: Country French with a touch of shabby chic.
Favorite room in her house: The living room because it’s a gathering place for my friends and family, and my favorite objects found through the years in Provence.
Prized possession: A sideboard made by a French friend in Provençal style.
Designer who inspires her: Annie Selke. We have a few things in common: her love of travel; her search for found treasures wherever she goes; and the spaces she creates are comfortable and livable, with a pop of color.
Design advice: Surround yourself with things you love, and don’t be too worried about your “style.” If you and your family love it, it definitely works.
Color she couldn’t design without: I’m pretty much a white-and-linen-color person, but I like charcoal gray and blues for color.
Elements she likes to incorporate into a space: Using area rugs on wood floors to make a room warmer—and more interesting with white or linen seating.
Favorite rooms to design: Living rooms, family rooms and bedrooms, because those are the places where you can relax and enjoy objects you’ve chosen carefully—that have meaning to you.
Her definition of good taste: Putting elements together in your home that are pleasing and welcoming.
Biggest decorating faux pas: When clients make choices based on their own tastes, it can’t be wrong. I personally don’t like to use too many colorful patterns together.
Three words that sum up her design: Subdued, classic, inviting.
Best part of her job: Finding treasures on my travels and incorporating them with the lines I carry in my shop.
Favorite item in her store: A large table that was used in a shop in France. It has a money drawer and a slot on the tabletop to insert francs.
