November 20, 2025 | inspiration
Life is short, try the wallpaper!
Charlotte-based designer Beth Conant-Keim of Lucy and Company shares how trusting your vision, embracing texture, and going all-in on color can transform a space—and a client’s mindset.
Welcome to PJ's Designer Series where we spotlight standout designer projects and incredible stories. Each feature delves into the creative process and inspiration behind some spectacular interiors. For Lucy and Company, it's all about bold color, rich texture, and a confident point of view. We sat down with the firm's principal, Beth Conant-Keim, to learn more about how trusting your design instincts can lead to unforgettable spaces and loyal clients.
When Beth first started her design business, she specialized in upscale kid's rooms. "I wanted to do something that not too many people were doing," she said. And with a background in art, she found a niche hand painting whimsical designs on furniture and walls. "Back in 1997, I actually said out loud, 'Why would anyone want to wallpaper when you can hand paint?' And here I am now, putting wallpaper everywhere!"
Fast-forward to today, and both Beth and wallpaper have come a long way! Lucy and Company’s work includes projects throughout Charlotte as well as North Carolina mountain retreats, NYC, and London. And Beth has grown her company to a team of six who continue to be known for their bold, layered interiors.
Shop Beth's Picks: Fretwork in the bathroom, Offset in the entry (above) and Vinyl Zebrawood (below) 
Establish Trust In A Designer's Vision
“The more experienced you get,” said Beth, “the more you are a little more outspoken and determined that the client hired you for a reason. Instead of letting them drive, I say ‘trust us’—and most of the time, it’s worked out!”
Case in point, a dining area wrapped in Phillip Jeffries’ floral mural, Bloom. The luxurious grey-scale floral provides the perfect backdrop for family meals. The client was hesitant about grey, but once the wallcovering went up, it became a favorite spot in the house.
Throughout her career, Beth has turned to Phillip Jeffries time and time again. “I use wallpaper on every single project," said Beth. "Phillip Jeffries does texture so well and that is what is appealing. I love it when it has so much texture. You can't do that easily with paint. In my 25 years, it's come a long way and now I can't get enough of it."
Wow With Colors A Client Likes
For a client who wanted “all black,” Beth worked with Phillip Jeffries to add designs in their favorite color while creating spaces that are anything but basic. Venetian Plaster in Black Ink created a three-dimensional hallway space that is irresistibly touchable, while Sculpted Wood in Painted Evening gives a home office an edgy dimension that still reflects light.
“Phillip Jeffries does texture so well," said Beth. "Color with texture adds an extra layer to a room that makes it really special. It’s like another piece of art.”
Shop Cape Town in Sapphire Bay
Start With Bathrooms
Beth loves to do something surprising in a project, and the powder room is the perfect place. “It’s the one opportunity to do something out there!” she said. For a bold, “wow” moment, Beth chose Metro Montage in Deep Teal to make her client’s dark turquoise dreams come true.
Use Trusted Sources
No matter the color or aesthetic preferences you may have, Beth suggests a rule to follow when you’re designing your space: “Life is short, try the wallpaper!”
Shop Offset
Image at top: Rivets, Styled in Studs
Design by Lucy and Company
Interior Photos by Mekenzie Loli
You may also like...
