Mary Evelyn McKee has design and artistry in her genes. Painting classes with her grandmother taught her how to really see, and her artist father spurred her talents. "He was so encouraging. I could put two dandelions in a bottle, and he would proclaim it gorgeous. And my mother, an accomplished pianist, taught us tempo and movement to Mozart and Bach." From her richly artistic upbringing, she studied Art History focusing on decorative arts and architecture at Hollins College.
Her approach is personal, pragmatic, and artistic. "When a client is updating, I look for solutions that are timeless, elegant, and comfortable. I try to create something fresh and forward-looking, and use personal collections that reflect the individual." Her style is elegant, but not fussy. Informed by history, yet fresh and surprising. Formulaic design is not in her vocabulary. She seeks the singular piece that creates the frisson necessary for dramatic but inviting rooms.
Mary Evelyn began her design enterprise in 1986. Its success led to opening her retail interiors shop offering her signature palette of sunny neutrals and her eye for great design.