Why Emotional Storytelling Matters in Design, Iconic Atlanta Interior Designer and Business Owner, Dorothy McGhee.

Dorothy believes design is more than visual, it’s emotional

Some designers focus on style. Others on function. But for Dorothy McGhee of McGhee Studios, design is about something deeper: storytelling.

That’s why Dorothy was a standout guest on this week's podcast, On the Move: The Art of Interior Installations, hosted by the father–daughter duo Kelly and Caralee Caudelle.

What do you get when you mix Dorothy’s thoughtful wisdom, Kelly's decades of installation know how and Caralee's fresh perspective? A podcast episode that’s equal parts professional insights and engaging storytelling. This trio transforms a conversation and trust us, with Dorothy in the mix, the conversation is as inspiring as it is entertaining.

In her episode, Dorothy shares how she ensures every piece of furniture and art placement flows with intention. For her, the installation phase isn’t the end of the process; it’s the moment when the story truly comes alive.

Dorothy has grown McGhee Studios into more than just a design firm, it’s a trusted partner in transformation.

Dorothy’s Approach: Emotional Storytelling in Design

Dorothy revealed her philosophy: design should resonate emotionally. She believes a successful installation doesn’t just look perfect, it feels perfect. Every chair, table, and artwork must flow together to tell a client’s unique story.

This is where white glove installers come in. Precision, care, and collaboration are essential to bringing that emotional vision to life. As Dorothy explains, “When the installers understand the why behind the placement, the result is seamless.”

McGhee Studios, specializes in blending styles to create unique and authentic spaces that resonate with each client's vision.

Collaboration with Caudelle

Working with Caudelle ensured her projects remained intact, from delivery dock to final reveal. This episode highlighted how professional receiving, storage, and installation creates a safety net for designers who need reliability and trust.

Dorothy designs spaces that not only look stunning but work seamlessly for the people who live, build, and invest in them.

Dorothy's Design Storytelling Challenge

Think you have Dorothy’s designer eye?

• Take a photo of your living room.

• Choose one word that describes the “story” of the space.

• Share it with us on Instagram using #DesignWithCaudelle.

• We’ll feature our favorite story driven spaces on our feed!

Insta Challenge

---

Influential and Celebrated Dorothy McGhee transforms the Atlanta Design Scene

Dorothy isn’t just talking about storytelling, she’s living it. She received honors as one of this year's Best of Modern Luxury Design Winner's 2025.

Dorothy was also a featured designer at Modern Luxury Magazine’s Live & Design event, "her table was a masterpiece; a vibrant kaleidoscope of color."

Dorothy's design was equal parts showstopper and design brilliance.

Her table turned heads and captured imaginations.

Dorothy's table was bursting with personality of charm and color.

And right now, you can see her vision in action at the Serenbe Showhouse in Serenbe, GA, open through October 12. Dorothy transformed the Serenbe Showhouse front porch; her design aesthetic was less outdoor seating, and more outdoor statement. A richly layered, editorial worthy vignette that captured the essence of luxury living and modern hospitality.

Want more design storytelling from Dorothy? Follow her journey on Instagram @dorothy.mcgheestudios for behind the scenes inspiration, and explore website, https://www.mcgheestudios.com

---

White glove isn’t moving, it’s an art form. With voices like Dorothy McGhee, our podcast On the Move brings that truth to life.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Buzzsprout, and see why design with Dorothy McGhee is always a story worth telling.

Episode

Always at Your Service