Today, we’d like to introduce you to Shelley Pfister.
Hi Shelley, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Born and raised in Texas, my design journey took off when I moved to Australia. While living in Sydney for seven incredible years, I created beautiful spaces for a renowned design firm. In 2016, just one year after moving abroad, our lives took a devastating turn when a house fire destroyed our home. At the time, I had limited family and friends in Sydney, and I thought I had everything going for me, but in a split second, we lost everything. I was fortunate to save my children from the flames, which started in a dryer as we slept. Our story was even featured on the Today Show. While losing everything was heartbreaking, it profoundly shaped my perspective on design and life.
In 2018, I rebranded my business as House & Roam, inspired by my travels and experiences. Since then, I’ve launched a furniture collection and collaborated with top designers, earning features in various magazines along the way.
Now back in Texas, I continue to help clients create their dream spaces, both online and in San Antonio. I’ve also introduced a home fragrance collection designed to make you feel as if you’ve traveled far away and to evoke the scent of a high-end boutique hotel, with each fragrance reflecting my global adventures.
Inspired by Australia’s relaxed lifestyle, I embrace a “less is more” approach to design. My distinctive aesthetic features calming colors, earthy tones, and plants, combined with natural light, creating simple and beautiful spaces that evoke a serene and inviting atmosphere. I love incorporating unexpected touches, like a vintage rug, while maintaining a clean and calming aesthetic, as my goal is to ensure each space feels tranquil and welcoming for my clients. When I’m not immersed in design, I love capturing moments through my camera, practicing yoga and pilates, rearranging decor, or enjoying sunny days with my husband Todd and our three kids. My motto is to always have fresh flowers in the home and savor the little moments in life, such as evenings spent with family and friends—and a glass of wine—on the patio!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Well, as you can see above, it’s all about the journey. Had I not started my design business in 2011, I would have never found myself in an interview talking about my passion for design and the small business I began. This path ultimately led me to interview for a position with a design company in Australia, which was a remarkable opportunity that shaped my career. With limited resources available at the time, I took it upon myself to learn everything I could—long before online courses became the norm. I followed my instincts, trusting that this was the path I needed to take. Sometimes, you just have to listen to that inner voice, the one that repeatedly nudges you in the right direction.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
House & Roam specializes in virtual e-design and local design services, offering a unique aesthetic influenced by my travels. Known for creating simple yet beautiful interiors that embody tranquility and sophistication, my brand reflects a harmonious blend of earthy tones, vintage textiles, and natural light, allowing clients to enjoy spaces that feel both inviting and refreshing.
My focus is on crafting interiors that showcase individuality while resonating with the beauty of nature and the essence of home. I design with my clients in mind, prioritizing their needs and helping them find a space that works best for them. Emphasizing quality and thoughtful design, House & Roam aims to transform any space into a personal sanctuary, celebrating the art of living well through a carefully curated aesthetic.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Currently, I’m reading Buy Back Your Time, which has been instrumental in teaching me how to let go of certain responsibilities and embrace outsourcing. Though challenging, I recognize this is a crucial step in my growth. I also love the Thrive Together Blog; being part of their membership group has provided me with invaluable insights for setting up my blog. One of my favorite podcasts is Thrive: The Podcast for Bloggers & Influencers by Bree Pair, which offers fantastic insights for anyone looking to grow their online presence.
Recently, Making Pretty Spaces on Instagram launched a coaching program for influencers and entrepreneurs, which has greatly assisted me in overcoming obstacles in my business. Managing my own business involves numerous moving parts, and designing homes is just one aspect among many.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://houseandroam.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/house_and_roam_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/houseandroam
