They are the culmination of four generations of furniture connoisseurs and interior designers. Their unique sense of style is grounded in sophistication for those with acquired tastes.

A house is not a home until it’s decorated with your personality in mind. Well, maybe that’s not exactly how the saying goes, but Katelynn Henry of Henry Home Interiors may beg to differ. As spring and summer begin to approach, home décor and interior trends of vibrant pops of color and light begin to reflect the warmer months ahead. To learn more about interior design trends and designing a home with individuality in mind, we chat with Henry about the best way to make a house a home, the staple design piece for every home, and the power of a good rug. 

How did you begin your career in interior design?

What interested you in the industry? I grew up in the furniture world. My father ran a furniture store for 40 years that was originally opened by my grandparents. I was very fortunate to attend markets from a young age. On vacations growing up, we would make time to stop by furniture factories, art galleries, and stores wherever we were visiting.

In June 2018, I left my job as a designer and head buyer to start Henry Home Interiors, which was opened in November 2018.

What are some interior trends you’re seeing for spring/summer?

The past four years, people have wanted gray, gray, and more gray. Finally, we are seeing less gray as people want to add softer, warmer neutrals layered with color! Blues, greens, pink, and reds are starting to come back, as well as darker, moodier tones.  

How would you describe the style of Henry Home Interiors?

I think of Henry Home Interiors as having a very fresh, current style. We have looks ranging from updated traditional to contemporary. HHI is an exciting collection of fresh and updated transitional furniture with unique accents. People are always complimenting our unique offerings of art, rugs and lighting. We are not afraid of color or to make bold choices with our design.  

Our motto is “furniture and design for sophisticated living,” and we offer just that – lots of looks and styles for a beautiful home, but also something livable and functional.

What’s the best way to make a house a home?

Some people say, “A house is a home because of the people who live in it,” and that’s so true. As a designer, I do not impose my style on my clients, but rather help guide them in defining their own. I want to incorporate the homeowner’s own personality into our designs—your home tells your story about how you live.

If you could name one staple design piece for any home, what would it be?

Updated lighting! Lighting can really date a house even if you have new furniture. Swap ceiling fans for light fixtures – they will really brighten up your space. Also, invest in a good quality sofa. It usually gets a lot of use, so a lesser quality piece will not hold up well for very long.

What do you recommend to someone who is thinking about redesigning their home?

This past year, COVID has made everyone reexamine their homes and the way they live. At first, working with a designer is a little like dating. I ask questions to get to know my client and the way they really live, what they want to change about the space, etc. Inspiration images and photos are great. I also love walking through my store with clients to see what styles and designs jump out to them. I have 6000 square feet of options and lots of things for them to sit on, in addition to thousands of fabrics to choose from. The options are limitless!

Fill in the blank. A design is not complete without _____. 

The right rug! Changing the rug in your space can completely change the look and feel of your room.

What does the future hold for Henry Home Interiors?

At least once a week, someone asks us where we are based out of, where our other stores are located, or if we will open a store in their area. Being a business owner, this is a huge compliment. Originally, I had never thought past our one store in Norman, but you never know what the future might hold!