Design That Is Aspirational and Attainable
THE FIRST CONVERSATION KATE SMITH HAS with her clients might not be what you expect. The owner of k. smith x, an interior design + consulting firm, says the onboarding meeting is often a very personal conversation. “We dive into habits, lifestyle, relationships, quirks, you name it. ... We go from 0 to 60 quick!” These topics help her craft a space that not only looks stunning but fits a client’s daily needs.
“Our goal is to really uncover how you already live to set you up for success in the long run and future space. Design can seem overwhelming; it’s our job to make it within reach,” says Smith, who notes the average project involves over 700 decisions for her team to make.
This summer, Smith shifted to a studio workspace in Ellison Bay, Door County. “The shift has been fun; we have scheduled meetings and walk ins. … It’s great to meet people who follow our work and hear their stories.”
The firm specializes in full-service design (think tile, cabinetry design, lighting, etc. – all the fixed items needed to complete a space) as well as scope-of-work services (if the project sparks interest). “We’ve learned that there is no one-size-fits-all approach for what we do,” says Smith, who partners with individuals and businesses across the country. “We look at projects based on how they will push our creativity, help us grow, and most importantly, what the partnership with our client looks like.” ◆
KSX BASICS
The studio space offered the opportunity for Smith to showcase a curated collection of elevated basics for the home that the firm turns to for their projects. While BASICS is currently “by appointment or chance,” you can find Smith there during her office hours Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. “How fun is it to stock all of your favorite things, which are also items [higher-end towels, soap, shampoo, dishware etc.] that are not commonly available in Northern Door.” BASICS also offers consulting services. “Oftentimes people are knee-deep in their projects and could really use support and guidance,” she says. “A consultation is an accessible way to figure out a roadmap for your project.”
K.SMITH X EMBRACES THE WAY YOU ALREADY LIVE IN YOUR SPACE