Interior Design | Design Philosophy | Design Team | Design Resources

Heron Console ~ Donaldson designed this award-winning piece and commissioned a local blacksmith to make it – complete with antiqued mirror top for an Isle of Palms beach house.

Design Philosophy -
Classic Design That Breaks Tradition

The signature style of Margaret Donaldson Interiors, MDI, is not found in a particular look or current trend but in MDI’s clients’ distinct personalities. A designer for the past two decades and president of MDI, Donaldson is known for her talents in creating sophisticated, livable spaces which compliment her clients’ lifestyles. MDI’s recent projects include the interior design of numerous historic houses in the Charleston area, new construction on the surrounding islands and the 2006 Southern Living Idea House on Daniel Island.

“There’s a tremendous amount of communication that has to take place between the client and designer. The client must feel that I am reading them correctly and that I have a full understanding of the look they want to achieve. It takes a little time to build that trust, but it is a crucial ingredient in the success of any project,” explains Donaldson.

A native and life-long resident of Charleston, Donaldson is heavily influenced by the city’s world famous architecture. “Homes decorated with 200 year-old antiques can look current because of the craftsmanship, quality and classic nature of the furniture. That’s not to say that the rooms don’t need a facelift from time to time. Fresh colors and fabrics along with personal accents help update spaces for today’s living.” Paintings by local Charleston artists often provide a backdrop for MDI designs.

Margaret Donaldson’s creative passion also includes refurbishing forgotten antiques with decorative paint finishes, luxurious fabrics and the like, giving the objects new life. “Flea market finds have great character as opposed to shiny new showroom pieces—they have a story, allowing the owner to feel a bit more connected to their home’s furnishing,” says Donaldson. MDI also commissions local craftsmen to create custom furniture using Donaldson’s unique designs.

Wrought Iron Bannister This spectacular wrought-iron banister was commissioned from a local Charleston forge. The landing serves as an intimate reading nook with bookcases lining the opposite wall.	Moroccan Doors ~ In the rear hall entrance, a closet was built to accommodate Moroccan doors, which Donaldson salvaged.	Arched Windows ~ Margaret Donaldson transformed arched windows (once an obsolete architectural detail) into a decorative asset for a Charleston bank lobby.
Octagonal Table ~ Donaldson designed this octagonal table using antique French iron arches for the center and commissioned a local cabinetmaker build the table around them.	Weathered Shutters ~ While antiquing in mountains of North Carolina, Donaldson found these weathered shutters. Now serving as a rustic backdrop, the shutters would also work as an interesting headboard for a mountain house.	Laundry Room Door ~ The reuse of an exterior door, which is inset with a chalkboard, makes a playful and useful entrance to a busy family’s laundry room.