Kristen Elizabeth Design have been shortlisted for Interior Design Scheme – Americas Award & Living Space – Americas in The International Design and Architecture Awards 2021. Read more about Owner and Lead Designer, Kristen Fiore, below:

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Name: Kristen Fiore

Company: Kristen Elizabeth Design

Position within company: Owner and Lead Designer

Website: https://www.kristenelizabethdesign.com

Tell us a little about your background in design:

I discovered the world of interior design by enrolling in Berkeley’s Interior Architecture Extension program while working full time in San Francisco as Development Director for a national non-profit. I loved it and was hooked. However, there was an interruption as we say- life happened with family and my plans to pursue a new path were put on hold. Fast forward to the last kid in kindergarten and I enrolled in a private college Interior Design program graduating with Highest Honors. I was too old to be an intern somewhere and learn the ropes, so I launched Kristen Elizabeth Design right out of the gate. I am proud to see the growth and evolution of the company into one of the area’s leading high end design studios.

How would you describe your personal design style?

My personal style is quite minimalistic and uncluttered. I could live with a kick ass chair,  a beautiful rug and an amazing piece of art. I describe my decor style as a blend of eclectic one of a kind pieces with clean lines and comfortable furnishings. I like spaces that create calm because life can get so overwhelming. 

Where does your design inspiration come from?

A lot of my inspiration comes from studying other designers and architects who create original work and break the mold. I love to see innovation and pushing the boundaries of design.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?

I think that sustainable design is the wave of the future. We are collectively and independently responsible for making choices that will help our planet heal, and if we can employ this in the materials we as designers select and source, we can help educate our clients and make a difference little by little.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2021 and beyond.

1. technology
2. sustainability
3. originality
4. functionality
5. disruption

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?

Get out of your head, out of your comfort zone, trust your instincts and then evaluate and reduce

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

The International Design and Architecture Awards offer critical recognition and are a global leader showcasing international talent and innovation. They bring inspiration, knowledge and recognition to the industry.

What projects are you currently working on?

Our next showcase piece is a Spanish Revival estate in Northern CA that we can’t wait to reveal!

What was your favourite project to work on and why?

Our Spanish Revival has been the most fun because the clients trust our vision 100% and have been adventurous and willing to give us more free reign on the design process. It has been very fulfilling.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?

Our most challenging project was a new build that taught us a lot about our own internal processes or lack of. The clients were very challenging, but that allowed us to recognize and develop systems that alleviated the potential for future projects to go sideways. It was a valuable experience- not fun, but it taught us ways to bring more touchpoints to our future clients.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?

We are so thankful for 3d rendering!

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?

We want to continue to refine our internal processes to make sure our client experiences are amazing. We want all designers to be LEED certified.

Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations:

Your most treasured possession?

My kids.

Your favourite holiday destination?

Spain

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?

Restaurant & Bar: Bix San Francisco
Hotel: The Standard- High Line NYC

Your favourite book, film & song?

Book: Kafka on the Shore
Film: Spaceballs
Song: Changes way too frequently to mention. I love music

Your favourite food and drink?

Coffee in the morning and a martini on a Friday night

Appetizers are my favourite food, but in real life, give me a great plate of pasta and something made with eggplant, and I could live forever. I don’t care if carbs are bad.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?

I love hiking in nature or anything to do in nature is where it’s at for me.

If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?

I would be a rock star, if I could sing.

Anything else interesting?

My party trick: purring like a cat