Talk Shop: Dana Wolter
About dana
Dana Wolter is the founder and principal of Dana Wolter Interiors, a Birmingham, Alabama–based design studio known for creating refined, gracious homes that balance timeless elegance with everyday comfort. Rooted in thoughtful craftsmanship, layered textures, and a deep belief in the restorative power of home, Dana’s work celebrates spaces designed for living well.
Her work has been featured in Traditional Home, Southern Living, and The Wall Street Journal, among others, and she is the author of The Elegance and Comfort of Home. We hope you enjoy Ann's Talk Shop interview!
Describe your style in three words or less:
My style is elegant, timeless, and unexpected.
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
My upbringing had a profound influence on my aesthetic. Growing up in a large family, I learned to find refuge in both love and chaos. My husband also comes from a large family, which further shaped how we think about making a home function seamlessly, whether for casual daily living or more formal entertaining.
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
I often bounce ideas off my DLN small group as they have provided a wealth of knowledge throughout my career.
Where do you find inspiration:
I find inspiration in quiet moments. While I love to travel, I discover my best ideas come when I slow down and quiet everything around me, allowing myself space to think, dream, and be more creative.
Who are your style icons:
David Hicks is one of my greatest style icons.
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
Great entertainment begins with good flow, beautiful flowers, entertaining décor, and fun people.
Do you collect anything:
I love collecting found cups and dishes, especially pieces of pottery. I use them often when entertaining for flowers, dips, or holding spoons and forks.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:
One of my favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration is @drjjphysicaltherapist
What are you working on right now:
I’m currently decorating a beautiful home in Buckhead that was built a few years ago by Stan Dixon. Now that the homeowners have settled in, we are completely revamping the interiors. I’m also working on a new house in southern Alabama with David Baker of TSB that features incredible architectural details We are also in the middle of a renovationa outside of Birmingham for an empty-nest couple.
Wardrobe staples:
My wardrobe staples include neutral colors and versatile pieces that can be easily mixed and matched, often with interesting cuts or a bit of edge.
Favorite fabric/wallpaper:
I love the wool fabrics from Holland & Sherry and wallcoverings from Phillip Jeffries.
Best interior advice you ever received:
The best interior advice I’ve received is that just because a project has a great scope and budget doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right fit for your firm.
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
I invest in antique mirrors, exceptional art, found objects, and quality upholstery. I prefer to save on trend-driven items that may feel dated after a few years.
Your greatest extravagance:
My greatest extravagance is staying at wonderful hotels, I truly love a great hotel experience.
Your life motto:
My life motto is to live in the moment and not think too far ahead.
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
I advise people to start collecting items that truly resonate with them, whether that be color swatches, photographs, and meaningful pieces. While it is important to note what you like about something to determine your style, it is also important to focus on what doesn’t resonate with you and why.
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: Smoothies
Drink: Matcha green hot tea with a spearmint tea bag in it
Film: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
Hotel: The Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco
City: Rome
Bedding: SFERRA
Coffee or Tea (and how do you take it): In the morning, green tea. At night, tea with oat milk and honey.
Playlist: Neil Diamond, John Denver, any folk music from the 70s
Weekend Activity: Going for a long walk with family or friends
Design Book: A House by the Sea by Bunny Williams
