As principal of Athens, Georgia-based design firm The Misfit House, Monica Stewart’s work highlights livable, genuine spaces that connect inhabitants to the past and age gracefully over time. Since 2021, Stewart has also steered Evolve Lighting Co.—a designer-loved line of heritage-inspired light fixtures featuring patinated metals and special details. Read on to learn how it all started.
First, what is a misfit house? I grew up moving all around Georgia, making the most of each place. Later on in life, I realized, “I love my home, but it’s a misfit house—full of misfit furniture that I’ve arranged and rearranged until it felt right.” If a piece has sentimental value, I think it’s worth planning around, even if it’s a uniquely weird painting.
Do you have a design philosophy? I believe in embracing the wear and tear of life and using authentic materials. Maybe your plaster will crumble a bit—but that’s the beauty of it.
How did Evolve Lighting Co. originate? I commissioned local metalsmith Mike Harboldt to create a custom light for a project, which added a lot of character to the home. As the collaborations continued, we decided to go for it. Some of the fixtures are vintage influenced, but most were made to fill a void.
Any news? I’m coming out with my own line of fabrics! I cofounded it with artist Hollis McFadden, formerly of Block and Brayer. It’s all linen—a mix of florals, checks, solids, stripes and geometrics.
