Our Story

Our story began with two female collaborators with big dreams.

After a decade of working together, Marisa and Melissa decided to take the leap and merge companies to create Graceful Interior Design Inc. The result; the very best of both designers, creating effortless designs that compliment both of their signature aesthetics.

Design with Restraint / Not trendy / Simple / Custom / Organic / Natural Elements / Earthy / Sustainable / Timeless / Focused / Interiors that sing / Welcoming / Holistic / Wellness / Clutter-Free / Clean / Classic / Polished / Detailed / Joyful / Passionate / Modern / Design with Restraint / Not trendy / Simple / Custom / Organic / Natural Elements / Earthy / Sustainable / Timeless / Focused / Interiors that sing / Welcoming / Holistic / Wellness / Clutter-Free / Clean / Classic / Polished / Detailed / Joyful / Passionate / Modern

Our Team

Principal Designer

Melissa Butter

Melissa brings over 13 years of experience in Interior & Architectural Design and Project Management. She is a true artist, with a persistent work ethic, who loves creating and inspiring through her work.

She graduated from the Interior Design program at Sheridan College with honors (2008) and studied Architecture & Art History throughout Italy. After working for both commercial and residential design firms for over 9 years, she followed her heart and started up Graceful Interior Design. Soon after, she brought in her long-time design partner and friend to officially partner up as Graceful Interior Design Inc.

Melissa has designed a wide range of homes throughout her career. She is well versed to take on projects that range in style from high-end luxury to modern farmhouse to heritage projects. This also includes a variety of new builds, renovations, and additions.

Her trademark style embodies a classic and natural aesthetic. This includes blending modern and traditional elegance with rustic components to create interiors that are full of warmth and grace. Design is energizing and she truly enjoys bringing this enthusiasm into projects large and small.

Melissa lives on a 100-acre farm with her husband, two children, and several animals. She and her husband renovated their century-old Victorian-style farmhouse that has been in the family since the 1800s. In Melissa's free time she can be found enjoying farm life with her family, enjoying a yoga class, making fresh juices, and reading her favourite design books.

Marisa grew up spending the majority of her summers on the Amalfi Coast and Southern parts of Italy. Here she grew a love for architecture and authenticity in the lifestyle which strongly influenced Marisa's interest in the design world.

She initially began her career as a teacher in Urban Studies upon graduating from University with her Bachelor of Arts. She later continued her studies in the South of France. While in Nice, France, she focused on Art History and French as a Second language which lead her to her true passion for Interior Design.

Marisa officially started her own design firm in 2000, she embarked on several exceptional residential and commercial projects. Her most recent venture is her collaboration and partnership with Graceful Interior Design Inc.

Marisa is known for her detail, simplicity, and classic approach to design and believes a well-thought-out, customized home results in a meaningful lifestyle.

When she’s not working, Marisa is surrounded by all things family, art, and nature. Marisa is a strong advocate of the visual arts. She enjoys painting and has previously extended her time as a docent at a local art gallery.