THE DOMICILIO STORY
DOMICILIO interiors emerged from a deep-rooted passion for design and a journey filled with twists and turns, always returning to a single purpose: crafting stunning spaces that evoke a true sense of home.
design is about more than aesthetics; it's about functionality, flow, and creating an emotional connection to the space. It's about designing homes that not only look beautiful but that also speak to your soul.
Who we are
JOHN BALLENTINE
Principal | DESIGNER
I've been hooked on the fascinating world of design since I was just a kid. At the age of 13, I immersed myself in sketching intricate floor plans and aspiring to become an architect—until a high school internship at a well-known Memphis architecture firm brought me a sudden dose of reality. While I found joy in the work, the draftsmen’s tales of grueling hours, demanding deadlines, and low pay gently nudged me toward a different path.
After years spent navigating the corporate America landscape, as well as working in retail and non-profit roles, a mid-life “aha!” moment finally inspired me to return to school at the ripe age of 40. I graduated with honors, earning a degree in Interior Architecture, and quickly landed a job focusing on commercial interiors right here in my beloved hometown of Atlanta.
Fast forward to 2020, when a global pandemic shook the world and prompted drastic changes. I made the bold decision to leave the commercial design realm, relocated to the vibrant city of Austin, tx, and launched a residential interiors firm along with two partners. After 4 transformative years, we all chose our own paths, and I made the move back home to Atlanta, where I proudly founded DOMICILIO interiors.
At DOMICILIO, we’re all about collaboration, creativity, and crafting homes that are as unique as the people who inhabit them. Ready to ditch the "blah" and design a space that’s totally you? Let’s roll up our sleeves and create a space that'll undoubtedly make your neighbors green with envy!
phoebe
DIRECTOR OF HAPPINESS
As the dedicated Director of Happiness at DOMICILIO, Phoebe approaches her role with complete dedication.
Whether welcoming clients with an enthusiastic wag or relaxing during virtual design meetings, her lively presence elevates everyone’s spirits. Adopted three years ago, this lab/shepherd mix embodies joy, loyalty, and keeps us on task with the occasional nose nudge.
When she’s not lifting morale, she’s busy chasing tennis balls, soaking up the sun, or overseeing snack time.
Phoebe embodies the belief that a joyful home begins with a joyful heart—and she’s committed to ensuring smiles all around!
INTERIOR DESIGN VS. INTERIOR DECORATING: WHATS THE DIFFERENCE?
Interior Designer
An interior designer is a professional who focuses on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces by applying knowledge of architecture, spatial planning, and human behavior. They often work on both the structural elements and the decorative aspects of a space, collaborating with architects and contractors to transform ideas into cohesive designs that meet specific client needs.
Interior Decorator
An interior decorator is a specialist in enhancing the visual appeal of a space through the selection of furnishings, colors, fabrics, and decorative accessories. Unlike interior designers, decorators do not typically engage in structural or architectural changes; their role is centered on beautifying an existing environment, ensuring it aligns with the client’s style and preferences.
WHY HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?
A thoughtfully designed home offers more than just visual appeal; it's a strategic investment.
Partnering with me means you're not only enhancing a space you’ll cherish, but also elevating your property’s value. With my expertise, your design decisions will blend beauty with economic insight, creating lasting benefits while making memories in a space that genuinely showcases who you are.
