A Fresh Take on Southern Tradition
How Elizabeth Scruggs Transforms Homes with Heart, History, and Style
Step into the world of fresh traditional design with Elizabeth Scruggs, the founder and creative force behind Superior Construction and Design . Based in Middle Tennessee, Elizabeth is not only a licensed general contractor but also an award-winning interior designer—making her firm one of the few in the region capable of managing both construction and design from concept to completion.
Over the years, Elizabeth has become known for creating homes that reflect her clients’ stories—layered with comfort, function, and just the right amount of wow. In a trio of recent projects, she and her lead designer, Lenneke Driscoll, brought their signature warmth and architectural vision to life: from a full $200K gut renovation of a longtime family home to design refreshes that showcase her talent for blending bold pattern with timeless style.
Design Tip #1: Start with a Vision—and Trust the Process
In one large remodel project, Elizabeth helped longtime homeowners reimagine their space after 23 years. The original floor plan was composed of closed-off rooms, limiting natural light and connection. Her team removed a central load-bearing wall to open up the heart of the home—creating a more fluid, family-friendly environment ideal for entertaining.
In the kitchen, crisp white cabinetry and quartz countertops offer a timeless backdrop. Thoughtful brass hardware ties into the warm tones of the Crystorama pendants above, adding layers of depth without overpowering the room.
Design Tip #2: Let Statement Lighting Anchor the Room
“Lighting is everything,” says Elizabeth. “Not only from a design standpoint but also from a functionality perspective.”
For Elizabeth, lighting is never an afterthought—it’s often the centerpiece. Nowhere is that more evident than in the dining room, where a Crystorama chandelier cascades in front of a deep navy panel wall. Its sculptural draping creates the perfect contrast to soft, tufted chairs and a rustic wood table.
“That chandelier popping off the navy wall in the dining room? It’s my favorite moment in the whole house,” says Scruggs.
Design Tip #3: Make Even Everyday Moments Feel Elevated
One of Elizabeth’s hallmarks is creating homes that feel luxurious but livable. In the bathroom, a pair of mirrors framed in gold echo the tones found throughout the house, while a Crystorama sconce adds architectural elegance above the vanity.
In the adjacent soaking area, a petite chandelier floats like jewelry above the freestanding tub—a subtle indulgence that makes everyday routines feel more special.
Spotlighting: Pattern, Personality & Playful Details
While Elizabeth’s full-home renovation reveals her mastery of space and structure, her work in other projects shows her flair for color, pattern, and unexpected moments. These rooms—from a charming entryway to a wallpaper-clad bath—offer a masterclass in mixing tradition with personality.
Design Tip #4: Don’t Shy Away from Color and Pattern
Elizabeth often reaches for timeless backdrops, but she also knows when to break out the bold. In this home’s entry, a whimsical floral wallpaper meets a crisp green ceiling and a Crystorama flush-mount fixture—proof that mixing old and new never goes out of style.
Design Tip #5: Elevate Tradition with Sculptural Lighting
In the bedroom, classic four-poster furniture sets a formal tone, but it’s the gold leaf chandelier above that steals the show. Inspired by nature, it softens the symmetry and brings warmth and movement to the space.
Design Tip #6: Mix Pattern with Restraint in the Bath
A soft botanical wallpaper and antique mirror define one of the home’s most charming bathrooms. “Pattern should complement the story of the space—not distract from it,” Elizabeth explains. Elegant sconces with a hint of sparkle complete the look, proving that small details often make the biggest difference..
Zooming in on the lighting, we see how even a small fixture can leave a large impression. The brass wall sconce with a crystal finial is both jewelry and architecture—a thoughtful accent that elevates everyday moments.
Design Tip #7: Let Art Glass Lighting Anchor a Soft, Serene Space
In a bath wrapped in soft chinoiserie-style wallpaper—where delicate branches and blooms seem to dance across the walls—lighting can become the defining feature. Here, a tiered chandelier made of warm amber art glass adds sculptural drama and contrast, anchoring the softness of the space with just the right amount of visual weight.
To create a spa-worthy retreat, don’t be afraid to pair bold fixtures with subtle surroundings. Sculptural lighting made from textured or artisan materials, like rippled glass, introduces depth and dimension while elevating the mood of the room.
The Signature Touch: Classic, Comfortable, Completely Custom
Whether opening up walls or choosing just the right wallpaper, Elizabeth Scruggs brings heart and clarity to every decision. Her signature fresh traditional style isn’t defined by trends—but by trust, craftsmanship, and an undeniable sense of place.
That balance between openness and coziness—that’s the magic of fresh traditional design,” she says.
Want more designer-approved lighting inspiration? Explore the Crystorama collection.