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Kate Kazlo

, Founder and Owner of 

The Home Market

, recently designed a home for a client in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where her store is also located. The home is a wonderful example of how loving neutral tones doesn’t have to translate into a boring space. As you’ll see here, the entire family was pleased with Kate’s work–including one very happy Golden Retriever!

HOW DID THIS PROJECT COME ABOUT?

The homeowner strolled into the store one day and we started talking about design, and realized that our styles clicked. It was the start of a great collaboration.

HOW DO YOU TYPICALLY PREPARE FOR A PROJECT OF THIS KIND?

I love to interview my clients and find out their must “haves” and must “nots” and find out a bit about their lifestyle… i.e. kids, pets entertainers, etc. Then I start to pull tons of ideas and fabrics and leave nothing out (even if it seems crazy).

ANY ADVICE FOR OUR READERS NOT USING A DESIGNER FOR A PROJECT LIKE THIS?

My advice would be to start with an open mind, peruse your favorite design magazines (old and new) and definitely check out local home stores, boutiques, and restaurants, you can find inspiration in a variety of places.

ANY FAVORITE MEMORIES OF THIS PROJECT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?

My absolute favorite memory was finding the family dog snuggled in the guest bedroom during the photo shoot. I knew I had truly pleased the entire family.

WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE?

For this particular project, there wasn’t a huge challenge because the client trusted my ideas and let me roll with it!

WHAT DO THE CLIENTS LOVE MOST ABOUT THIS SPACE?

The client loves neutral tones and the layering of vintage and modern pieces. After a busy day of work they love coming home to a calming and comfortable space.

ARE THERE DESIGN ELEMENTS FROM THIS PROJECT THAT OUR READERS COULD TRY IN THEIR OWN HOMES?

Yes – mixing styles along with old and new pieces, no room has to be one specific aesthetic.