Local knowledge: Timala Stewart from Decurated Interiors

Timala Stewart moved to Tampa from Newport News, Virginia in 2015 and fell in love with the city and its beautiful weather. Her background as a furniture and decor buyer and her passion for interior design led her to open Decurated Interiors, an online design service.

ABOUT ME

I became an interior designer because I noticed that interior design services were becoming more accessible digitally to everyday people and I wanted to be a part of that. Historically, these services were reserved for the wealthy – eDesign changed that.

MY LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Ybor and Seminole Heights are interesting places. From the bungalows and historic cigar factories to the wild chickens, there is so much to explore in these areas.

My favorite hidden gem is a small taco truck, Nacho’s Tacos, on the corner of Cypress and Armenia. The nacho fries are delicious!

I recently visited Hales Black Brick for the first time. It’s Chinese fusion cuisine with traditional dim sum options. It’s the perfect place to share plates and try new dishes. The ribs come highly recommended!

A fun day with friends and family This could include a tram ride to the Tampa Aquarium, a bite to eat at Sparkman Wharf, and then a water taxi ride to Curtis Hixon or Armature Works.

My visitors come to enjoy the weather, so we head to Fort De Soto Beach to laze in the sun.

I wish more people knew to Urban Drinkery in St. Pete. A cool little spot for live music, cultural enrichment, community events, and delicious drinks.

I would like to see Trolley service has been extended from Ybor/Water St/Channelside/Downtown to Tampa Heights. These areas are busy and in need of more accessible public transportation.

Art walk on the second Saturday in St. Pete is one of my favorite ways to discover new artists, photographers, jewelers, etc.

For special occasionsI love Hotel Haya in Ybor. It’s a boutique hotel with beautiful interiors and a lively bar and pool. I love that they offer dance and fitness classes, art shows, and live music.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

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