A signature name in interior design has announced his decision to retire.
Richard Tubb, owner of Richard Tubb Studios situated at Birmingham’s Pepper Place, has announced he will close at the end of the year.
Tubb, 80, said he plans to “travel and do other things” after more than 50 years in design.
“It’s just time,” he said.
Tubb started his business at Cobb Lane Flowers and Design, with his business partner Bill Whisenant. Tubb came from two generations in Birmingham’s furniture business, but he studied design under the late Clarence Brooks.
“I’ve had so many fine clients,” he said. “I think I’m a pretty good designer, but my secret is caring. I’ve had clients who will say, ‘You made my house a home. I love my home. I love the feel of it. I haven’t changed anything.’”
Tubb said his design concept was to deal with textures and solids for large segments, saving patterns for minor items. His look forsakes trendy elements in favor of a classic look that he feels has more longevity.
Tubb worked through referrals, and has designed projects in California, New York and Pennsylvania, but his concepts were on display in his shop at Pepper Place.
“I wanted to create a store that catered to all the senses. I wanted people to come into my shop and say, ‘It smells so good, it feels so good. I love the feel of the fabric.’ To just come and relax. We have ladies who come up to the mezzanine and just sit and talk.”
When Tubb came to Pepper Place, it was simply known as the former Dr. Pepper Building. He remembered the artist Arthur Price on his hands and knees, painting on the floor.
“I said, ‘What is this?’”
Developer Cathy Sloss Jones told him it would be a design center with lots of shops.
According to him, she said, “If you come, people will follow,”
“I said, ‘They’d better hurry.’”
Signing to locate his shop there, he said, was one of the best decisions he ever made.
Customers will be getting a treat, as the store is extending its Labor Day Sale, with all regular priced, in stock merchandise 20% off until further notice.
