Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Brogdon.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
We believe that good design is not only beautiful, but functional and durable as well. Our small local team of interior designers tailor designs for your home to meet the needs of your growing family, using our expertise to select materials and finishes that will stand up to the demands of your family’s daily life.
East Highland Design was established in the suburbs of Atlanta in 2006. I built a network of skilled tradespeople, sew rooms, builders, and unique retail contacts. Choosing the right clients and understanding their needs allowed me to refine my skills as a designer.
East Highland is known for its light-filled spaces featuring monochromatic palettes and layered textures. I often include a mix of unique finds and antiques that are timeless and refined.
The success of EHD in Atlanta was supported by residential and commercial clientele, leading to numerous recognitions and opportunities. Some highlights include:
2007 Designer: “The American Street of Dreams”
2008 Interior Designer: “Holiday Tour of Homes” in Senoia, GA
2011 Virginia Highlands Civic Association Tour of Homes Nominated Designer
Designer Recognition: Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, The Atlanta Voice, Marietta Daily Journal
Member: Georgia Design Awards Group, American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My career shifted from residential to commercial when I accepted the challenge of designing showrooms for Sterling Industries and America’s Mart. My team of five designers, artists, and builders maintained markets in:
Atlanta’s Mart & Convention Center
Dallas, TX Market Center
World Market Center Las Vegas
High Point Furniture Market, NC
Los Angeles Mart At The Reef, Los Angeles, CA
Life changes often require new directions, and that’s what I did. I created a distinguished career in the healthcare industry as an HR professional, which I value greatly. However, I miss working with clients and transforming houses into well-designed homes with character. I’m pleased to see East Highland Designs alive and active once again here in Summerville, SC. Now, I have a career I enjoy and an avenue to channel my creative side.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
“When I first started East Highland Design, I was driven by a passion for creating beautiful spaces. One of my earliest projects was for a young couple who had just bought their first home. They wanted a space that felt cozy yet sophisticated, and they had a limited budget. I remember spending countless hours sourcing affordable yet stylish pieces, and even repurposing some of their existing furniture to fit the new design. Seeing their faces light up when they walked into their transformed home was incredibly rewarding. It was moments like these that fueled my dedication to design and solidified my belief in the power of a well-designed space to change lives.”
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Networking!
At some point, we were all new to the area, unsure of where to find the best stores or hidden local gems. I struggled to find someone for basic handyman jobs and needed a window treatment company that wouldn’t break the bank. Eventually, I started meeting my wonderful neighbors, and together, we figured it out! I discovered fantastic shops and gathered referrals for trusted tradespeople that my friends recommended. Now, we have those contacts ready to share with you.
Pricing:
- “Welcome Home” Furniture Placement
- By The Room Design
- Design Advise
- The Refresh
- “For Sale” Staging
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.easthighlanddesigns.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/easthighlanddesigns/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574775553020
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/19vmex8vegzoasngj0rkl7gnsp9zq4/
