Interview with The Clever Goose
The timeless appeal of wood doors in traditional homes cannot be overstated. Beyond aesthetics, they embody character and history, making them a choice for those seeking both beauty and heritage. This is why we interviewed Instagram influencer, Allison of The Clever Goose, about her Simpson doors. Read on to discover why she chose Simpson doors for her home, and for tips and tricks she uses in styling her home and doors.
The Journey Begins
Allison’s choice of Simpson doors reflects her home’s architectural spirit. She discusses her platform, The Clever Goose, her start on Instagram, and her passion for home design, emphasizing the community and inspiration she found there. The renovation of her Southern Revival home, shared with followers, showcases her commitment to tradition and personal style. Here, she states:
Q: Tell us about your platform, The Clever Goose. How did you get started? What are your current projects?
A: “My dad and I had just started our Etsy shop, Clever Goose, and I thought, ‘I could post our items on Instagram.’ As time went on, I found that Instagram has an entire community of home design and décor that’s full of inspiration and amazing people. Slowly, I began sharing photos of my home along with the signs and trays from our shop. Two years ago, my husband and I designed, self-contracted, and completed much of the work ourselves at our Southern Revival home. I shared the journey with my Instagram followers. My followers and accounts I followed inspired me and cheered me along.”
Choosing Wood Doors with a Story
Allison’s choice of Simpson doors reflects her home’s architectural spirit. She discusses her platform, The Clever Goose, her start on Instagram, and her passion for home design, emphasizing the community and inspiration she found there.
Q: How would you describe your home’s style, and how do your Simpson doors fit into that?
A: “My home is some mix of traditional old southern home, a little Greek revival and coastal. All are tied together by classic, clean, and simple finishes and décor. Simpson doors fit our home perfectly! They are traditional in materials of wood and glass, and have clean, simple lines that are full of character.”
Designing with Tradition and Modernity in Mind
Her home blends traditional elements with modern touches. Here, Allison advises on selecting timeless materials and maintaining style continuity across the home.
Q: When building a new home to resemble an older home, what are some tips for achieving that look?
A: “Think classic. Choose products that are classic in material, color, shape and textures. Continuity is also very important. Be sure to keep the same style throughout the home. There’s nothing worse than a traditional classic white kitchen with a modern red or bright blue light fixture. This doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate design elements that are traditional with a modern twist. There’s always beautiful décor and products that are classic, but have a little modern updating.”
The Classic Appeal of Wood
Wood doors symbolize the classic warmth Allison seeks. She elaborates on her choice for wood doors, citing their classic appeal and the authenticity that real materials bring to her home’s aesthetic.
Q: Why did you choose wood doors for your home?
A: “I know I keep using this word over and over, but wood doors are classic! I love the warmth and character they bring to a home, and I love the look and feel of wood. The quality is wonderful. There’s just something about the real deal. When possible, I always steer clear of ’fake’ materials.”
A Personal Touch
Detailing the personalization of her doors with Sherwin Williams stains, Allison highlights her preference for the Covered Bridge color, enhancing the wood’s natural beauty.
Q: How did you stain and finish your doors?
A: “I love Sherwin Williams products. They have beautiful colors and finishing options; I’ve found them to all be wonderful quality. We stained all of the doors with Sherwin Williams Woodscapes exterior stain in Covered Bridge.
Styling the Entryway
Her approach to styling entryways—using terracotta pots, layered rugs, and seasonal wreaths—offers readers practical tips for creating welcoming spaces. Allison shares her favorite entryway styling tips, emphasizing simplicity and tradition.
Q: What are your favorite ways to style your entryway?
A: “Oh how I love to style exterior entryways! On my porch by the doors, I always have large terracotta (classic) pots full of ferns, and smaller terra cotta pots filled with other seasonal plants around them. At Christmas I use fresh green garlands around the doors. A little tip: get them at Home Depot or Lowes on Black Friday for about $5 each (such a great deal!).
I also love door mats and rugs in front of the doors. Layering is all the rage right now, and I’m totally on board. I love how combining a 3’ x 5’ rug with a simple doormat can make the space inviting and accentuate the beauty and size of your exterior door.
Finally, I almost always have a wreath on my door. Again, simple, clean, and classic. I stick to either dried boxwood wreaths or a cream twig wreath.”
Readers are encouraged to explore traditional design in their homes and share their journeys, fostering a community of like-minded enthusiasts.
This guide, inspired by The Clever Goose’s journey with Simpson wood doors, offers practical advice and design inspiration for homeowners looking to infuse tradition and elegance into their spaces.
