What’s currently on your inspo boards?

A lot of English heritage homes with primitive detailing —skirted sinks, bridge faucets, vertical tongue and groove paneling, cafe rods, marble apron sinks and plaster everything. Oh, and a lot of English roses because ’tis the season.

Do you have a dream project?

I’m currently working on one! It’s a new construction project with Stillwell Hansen Architects and McKinney Group Construction, located on the water in Yarrow Point. The clients are incredibly trusting and really fun to work with. We have a ton of lovely details incorporated in the casework, millwork and stonework. We will be working on the full-house furnishings here soon as well. I’m very proud of this project and cannot wait to share this with you all!

Was design something you’ve always felt strongly about or was it a gradual process of finding your voice?

I’ve always had a creative soul. As a kid, you’d often find me sketching in my notebook, drawing portraits of my favorite childhood dog or cat, or redecorating my bedroom with tchotchkes and the millionth can of paint. So, pursuing design school was a no-brainer.

Can you remember the first time you felt amazed by a well-designed space?

Upon graduating from design school, I worked for a local designer who mentored me for seven years. I remember touring a handful of her past projects and being in complete amazement of the level of custom detailing prevalent in her projects. Every finish was thoughtfully selected, every hue of color coordinated —right down to the linen bedskirt and roman shades. Being a rookie out of school, I was both overwhelmed of how to pull such a large home together like that but also in complete admiration of each harmonious layer. I was eager to learn and take a hold of a project on my own someday.

Describe your design style or philosophy.

I believe a space is an extension of personal style and should honor the lifestyle of those who live there. The process between designer and client should be approachable and collaborative.

Each of your projects is always full of fresh and interesting ideas—how do you stay inspired?

I often look to the bones of the home to spark the initial concept. If it’s a historical home, I look to the past and study architectural elements and extract those details. The location of the home is also key for setting up a consistent color palette between the exterior and interior. I always pay attention to what’s peaking my client’s interest too, as there’s no better inspiration sometimes than our clients themselves.

After 15 years in the industry, what surprises you most when you revisit your projects?

How hard kids are on bathrooms! Ha!

What’s the first thing you notice when you walk into a room?
The floors —It makes up a large surface of a room, so make it count!

What is the best moment of the day?

Seeing clients get excited about selections we’ve made.

Best travel destination for inspiration?

New York City

Favorite way to spend a weekend in the Northwest?
Hiking with my two small children, husband and dog.

Best materials to splurge on?

Art, lighting and rugs.

For more information visit: www.katlawton.com