
Design With Me: From Inspiration to Concept
Welcome to the first edition of our new series, Design With Me. This week, we'll guide you through the very first steps of any successful design project. Before you buy a single item, you need a clear vision. This digest will show you how to find inspiration, define a personal style, and translate those broad ideas into a cohesive design concept that's uniquely you.
Lighting the Sanctuary: A Luminous Design Story on the Tennessee River
Our latest interior design project in Tennessee embraces the principles of design and organic contemporary style. The lighting was curated to seamlessly connect the home to its stunning riverfront environment, making the space feel like a true natural extension of the landscape.

Behind the KMI Design: Our Trusted Partners
At Kate Marker Interiors, the foundation of a truly exceptional space lies in thoughtfully selected materials. Walls, floors, and backsplashes aren't just surfaces; they are canvases for texture, character, and enduring style. This is why we are so passionate about our exclusive collaboration: the Kate Marker x The Fine Line Chicago tile collection. It's a testament to timeless beauty and enduring quality, allowing us to build extraordinary design from the ground up.

Decoding Your Home's Spaces
At Kate Marker Interiors, we believe a beautifully designed space is also a highly functional one. Often, clients come to us with a vision, but the specific terminology for different rooms can sometimes be a little fuzzy. Understanding the distinctions between common areas isn't just about jargon; it's about recognizing the unique purpose and design potential of each space within your home. Let's demystify some of these key rooms and explore how their subtle differences contribute to a truly cohesive and livable design.

Style Spotlight: The Heart of the Home – The Keeping Room
We often talk about the kitchen as the heart of the home, but the "Keeping Room" offers a unique extension of that warmth. This cozy, informal living space, often adjacent to the kitchen or breakfast nook, is designed for relaxed family gatherings and quiet moments.
It's where comfort reigns supreme – think plush seating, an inviting fireplace, and perhaps a well-curated bookshelf. It's a testament to the idea that even in open-concept homes, creating designated zones for comfort and connection is paramount. It’s a beautiful way to ensure every corner of your home feels lived-in and loved.

How to spot a KMI Home
At Kate Marker Interiors, our design philosophy is rooted in creating spaces that are both classically beautiful and effortlessly livable. While every project is uniquely tailored to our clients, certain signature elements consistently capture our hearts and define the timeless, refined aesthetic of a KMI home.

Your Design Journey, Simplified: Discover Your KMI/KMH Service Match
Overwhelmed by design choices? Our new quiz is here to guide you. Unlock the perfect KMI or KMH service to achieve the home of your dreams, beautifully and efficiently.
Embarking on a design project, whether a single room refresh or a whole home transformation, often begins with excitement, quickly followed by a cascade of questions. Which service is right for me? Can I truly achieve my vision, or will budget force a compromise? At KMI, we understand this journey can feel overwhelming. That's why we've crafted a new, intuitive tool designed to bring clarity and confidence to your design decisions: our Design Services Quiz.

Our Favorite Spots in Barrington, IL. Home of #KMIxBTownTurnAround
This week, we are sharing our favorite spots in Barrington that are almost all within walking distance from this home!

Breaking Design Norms with Intention
At KMI, we believe true design thrives in thoughtful details and delightful departures from the norm. Discover how we infuse unique character into every space, from ceilings to unexpected views.

Artfully Curated: The Soulful Additions of #SoParSoGood by KMI
At KMI, artwork is more than decor—it's an integral layer of thoughtful design. Join us for an exclusive look at the hand-selected pieces that define the spirit of our #SoParSoGood project.

Style Challenge: 1 Room, 1 Budget in 4 Different Styles
Can you create four stunning living room designs, each with a distinct style, for only $5000? We challenged our in-house styling Creative Director, Yesim, to do just that! Get ready for some serious design inspiration that proves you don't need a fortune to create a stylish space.

Curated Corners: The Art of Designing Intimate Spaces by KMI
Beyond grand rooms, true design shines in the smallest details. Discover how KMI crafts intimate corners that add layers of charm, character, and quiet sophistication to any home.

Elevating Walls: The Art of Texture and Character by KMI
Thoughtful detail defines design, and walls are key for impactful texture. We elevate spaces by layering character with considered molding, transforming walls into extraordinary design statements.

Design your Refreshment: KMI’s Signature Sip
Just like a well-designed space, the perfect summer drink blends intention, beauty, and refreshment. Discover our favorite blend for the season!

The Psychology of Space: Designing for Emotion
We all feel the spaces we inhabit. But how does design shape those feelings? Let's explore how our surroundings impact our psychology.

Scent & Space: A Sensory Harmony Guide
Scents possess a remarkable ability to evoke memories, stir emotions, and shape the atmosphere of a space, much like carefully chosen décor and lighting can define a room's character.
The Psychology of Scent
Different scents affect mood and cognitive function. Specific scents can trigger a range of emotional and physiological responses, influencing everything from relaxation and focus to energy levels and overall well-being.


Beyond the Trend: Designing With Enduring Color
The most successful spaces use color not just because it's "in," but because it creates a specific mood, enhances the architecture, and works in harmony with light and texture.

Our Top 5 Interior Design Secrets
Tired of boring interiors? Want designer-level style? We’re unveiling insider tips from Merchandising & In-Home Styling Creative Director, Yesim! Elevate your space with unconventional techniques.

LEVEL UP YOUR INSTAGRAM GAME
At Kate Marker Interiors, we're grateful for our incredible Instagram community. We believe in sharing knowledge, so here are our top 5 direct tips to help fellow designers grow: