Welcome friend! I’m San Antonio Certified Residential Interior Designer (RIDQC) Melissa Fields, Founder and CEO of Shades of Gray Design Studio. I wonder if you’re a lot like me - you’re a busy, high-performing professional who works hard every day, striving to achieve your career goals while balancing home life. It seems you barely have time to do the things you need to do; let alone the things you want to do.  

You value a well-designed space but don’t know how to put it all together. You have discerning taste and want the very best. You don’t want to replicate what you see on Pinterest…you want something unique and curated just for you and your lifestyle. When it comes to your home, you don’t have time to get bogged down with all of the details - you just want it done right and you want it to look ah-mazing! Sound like you?

Well you’re probably wondering what my story is before you so graciously invite me into your home. I would wonder the same thing so let’s get to it, shall we?

This is where passion meets purpose and creativity transforms spaces. With a unique background rooted in 20 years of military experience, my approach to interior design is unlike any other. My journey in the U.S. Air Force has not only shaped my character but has also profoundly influenced my design philosophy, creating spaces that go beyond aesthetics, changing lives and enriching the human experience.

At Shades of Gray Design Studio, we believe that every space has a story to tell, and our mission is to bring those stories to life. With two decades of military service, I have learned the importance of discipline, structure, attention to detail, and the value of teamwork. These principles form the foundation of my approach to design, ensuring that every project is executed with precision and care.

Military life has taught me the significance of adaptability and resilience. I’ve had the experience of being apart from my family for six months or more with each deployment living in tents, trailers, and even a shipping container (without windows or plumbing) before it was cool to do so! These qualities are reflected in my designs, where I seamlessly blend functionality and beauty. Just as the military transforms individuals, our designs transform spaces. We go beyond aesthetics, creating environments that inspire, comfort, and empower. I know firsthand how much home truly means and to never take it for granted.

In the military, attention to detail can literally be a matter of life and death. This level of precision and thoughtfulness is ingrained in my approach to interior design. Every element, from creating a layout that is functional for your lifestyle to details such as sourcing the right furniture, colors, and materials, is carefully curated to enhance the overall feel of the space. It's these subtle details that make a significant difference, creating elevated spaces that resonate with harmony and luxury.

Having served in diverse environments around the world, I understand the importance of culture and uniqueness. Our designs celebrate diversity, honoring different customs, and lifestyles. By embracing the richness of various cultures, we create spaces that are not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful and personal, reflecting the essence of the people who inhabit them.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my military background is the ability to make a positive impact on people's lives. Through thoughtful design, we enhance the quality of life for our clients. Whether it's a cozy family home, a vibrant office space, or a luxurious and intimate retreat, our designs empower individuals to live, work, and relax in environments that nurture their well-being.

We are a transformative boutique interior design studio whose mission is to create homes that are filled with life, personality, and luxury — all to empower our clients with the knowledge that they are worthy of being surrounded by beauty.

Shades of Gray Design Studio invites you to embark on a transformative design journey with us. Experience the difference that a military-inspired approach can make in your home or office. Together, we will create spaces that not only captivate the eye but also touch the heart and soul, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who enters. Let us show you what’s possible!

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