Long before she was a household name, Shea McGee remodeled her home and documented the entire process on Instagram, inadvertently rocket-launching her career. Known for her ability to make striking design choices that simultaneously feel cozy and approachable, McGee has developed quite the résumé since that first remodel. In addition to having her design firm and a home decor e-commerce brand, McGee stars in the Emmy-nominated Netflix show “Dream Home Makeover” and is the author of “The Art of Home.” There’s also that enormously successful Target collection that churns out cult-favorite furnishings like this barrel accent chair and these tufted ottomans.
“When designing homes, my goal is to bridge classic and current and mix styles together so they feel layered and collected over time,” McGee tells CNN Underscored, adding that her latest collaboration, Kohler x Studio McGee, aims to do just that. “I was living, breathing and thinking about faucets, vanities and fixtures for several months while conceptualizing the vision for the collection. From the details on the connection points to the shape of the faucet arcs, I wanted to design a collection that was rooted in history but transitional enough to pair with a wide range of styles.”
After using the brand’s products in “Dream Home Makeover” and her own home, McGee and Kohler decided to officially join forces. “What started out as a collaboration on a piece or two quickly evolved into the development of full collections across multiple categories, thus bringing the Studio McGee aesthetic to Kohler-quality products,” she says.
While it’s hard to imagine McGee ever having downtime — did we mention she has three kids? — the interior designer is just like us when it comes to relaxing. “I love to play tennis and spend time with my family in our backyard — gardening, swimming in the pool and dining alfresco!”
Below, McGee outlines her home essentials for CNN Underscored and shares one last design tip for anyone dipping their toe into the renovation pond. “Make a plan, but know there will be pivots along the way, which often result in the best surprises in the end.”
We can never get enough organization tips over here, especially when it comes to which products we should be investing in. For McGee, it’s these Deep Drawer Organizers from iDesign that can be used to corral, well, pretty much anything. “I use these in makeup drawers, junk drawers, etc.,” she shares.
Related: The best stick-on organizers (and how to apply them so they stay put), according to experts
Entertaining is a big topic on the Studio McGee lifestyle blog, and that includes stocking your kitchen with elevated essentials. Among her current favorites are these textured drinking glasses that would be great for juice or cocktails. “I love these substantial glasses that are a great price for a set of six,” she says.
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“A classic jute rug works in every style of home, but I love that this one comes with a subtle twist,” says McGee. “The cream band and tassels make it more interesting than basic, and it’s great for layering with vintage rugs as well! I’ve used this everywhere from entryways to kitchen runners and living rooms.” Available in six sizes, the Girona is handwoven and features a pretty fringed edge.
Related: Ruggable’s new rug collection with The Home Edit is both functional and fun
Another sage piece of design advice from McGee: “Coffee table books and decorative trays solve most styling problems.” Perfect for displaying on shelves or tabletops, this Architecture Digest tome not only looks great from afar, but it’s also chock-full of design inspiration. McGee’s other favorite coffee table books include “Poetry of Place: The New Architecture and Interiors of McAlpine,” Jenni Kayne's “Pacific Natural at Home” and “Houses: Atelier AM.”
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Candles are a design must-have, and McGee loves this one, which has notes of water lily, jasmine and rose. “We travel to Alys Beach, Florida, once a year as a family, and I love to be reminded of that place all year long.”
No stranger to a photo wall, McGee says home photos are an affordable alternative to pricey artwork. Pottery Barn’s Stowe Modern Metal Frames are her favorite, and she uses them to “frame [her] own travel or personal photos in a grid shape.” Available in a black or brass finish, the frames can be purchased individually or in sets of three, four or six.
Related: HGTV stars Erin and Ben Napier share their home must-haves
“I love to upgrade everyday essentials like hampers,” says McGee, who singles out this water hyacinth beauty from The Container Store. Featuring a removable liner, this hamper also has a lid for concealed storage.
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“I love a good mirror selfie, and this mirror delivers,” says McGee. “I love the curved corners, the coining detail and its ability to pivot.” Part of the Kohler x Studio McGee Castia collection, this mirror comes in five finishes and is perfect on its own or as part of a duo above double sinks.