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 passion for interior design led her to open Decurated Interiors, an online design service.
ABOUT ME
I became an Interior Designer because I noticed a digital shift of interior design services becoming more accessible to everyday people and wanted to become a part of that. Historically, these services were reserved for the affluent–eDesign changed that.
MY LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Ybor and Seminole Heights are interesting spots. From the bungalows and historic cigar factories, to the wild chickens, there’s so much to discover in those areas.
My favorite hidden gem is a small taco truck, Nacho’s Tacos, at 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 with traditional dim sum options. It’s a perfect place to share plates and try new foods. Highly recommend the ribs!
A fun day out with friends and family would include riding the trolley to the Tampa Aquarium, getting a bite to eat at Sparkman Wharf, then riding the water taxi to Curtis Hixon or Armature Works.
My visitors come to enjoy the weather so we go to Fort De Soto beach to lounge around in the sun.
I wish more people knew about Urban Drinkery in St. Pete. It’s a cool little spot for live music, cultural enrichment, community events and delicious drinks.
I would love to see the trolley service extended into Tampa Heights from Ybor/ Water St/Channelside/Downtown. There’s a lot happening in those areas and more accessible public transportation is needed.
Second Saturday Art Walk in St. Pete is one of my favorite ways to explore new artists, photographers, jewelers, etc.
For special occasions, I love Hotel Haya in Ybor. It’s a boutique hotel with beautiful interior decor and a lively bar and pool. I love that they have dance and fitness classes, art shows and live music.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
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