What a rollercoaster ride 2020 was - and I’m glad we’re moving into a new year! But as hard as last year was in so many ways, it was ironically an incredible year for my design business. My team and I were so busy with design projects, even during lockdown months when we worked remotely. From features in the press to giant installations, here’s how 2020 looked for me and my design studio.

At the beginning of the year, we finished an install on a 6,500-square-foot luxury mountain rental in Tennessee. It was a whirlwind project that took us six months from start to finish, and this gorgeous retreat is now booked through this summer. And in 2021, we’ll be launching more new luxury houses as part of this rental project!

I also spent a lot of time on photo shoots this year. Although they look glam and gorgeous, photo shoots can be grueling work and long hours. But we do like to have a little fun, and some sugar to keep us going!

Once lockdowns and quarantines became part of our lives last spring, we pivoted quickly and figured out ways to work remotely. Renderings and CAD drawings helped me show my vision to clients when we couldn’t meet face-to-face, like the fun game room I designed above.

Even stay-at-home orders in Greensboro didn’t slow us down since construction was deemed an essential service. We did everything we could to keep our job sites on track, including putting on a mask and helping determine the perfect exterior paint color!

Well, I never expected to celebrate my 40th birthday like this, but my family and friends made it special. This was definitely a year to remember all that we’re grateful for!

The highlight of 2020 for me professionally was launching my first licensed collection with Thompson Traders, including the gorgeous tub above. While it didn’t happen the way we had planned with trunk shows, KBIS and in-person sales trainings, we’ve had an incredible response to the Quintana Collection. We can’t wait to get these pieces in front of more designers and showrooms this year when we can safely be together!

We took on so many new projects in 2020 that will make their new debut in 2021, like a 100-year-old project with a gorgeous hand-painted mural (above). I can’t wait to show you all of the transformations we’ve got underway - stay tuned for a sneak peek on the blog next week!

I was lucky to be featured in the media several times this year, but the real “pinch me” moment was seeing my face in House Beautiful! I’m so thankful for everyone who helped me get to this point.

Our team needed some downtime in 2020, too. So I hit the road with my family, something I never dreamed I would do in an RV. It was an incredible trip, in so many ways. I loved having the time with my family and to be able to recharge my batteries. I would do it again in a second.

I can’t let this review go by without mentioning the newest member of my family - and our studio mascot. We adopted Penny early in 2020 and she has been such a bright spot for us. Never underestimate the power of a puppy to make you laugh!

I also had one of the most fulfilling days of my career in 2020. I presented a project that I poured my heart and soul into. I stretched out of my comfort zone with new sources, layered in customized pieces with meaning, and my client approved every single piece I selected. A few short years ago, this client hired me as their first interior designer and we created a beautiful but simple family home together. Now we’re designing their dream estate... yes, pool, tennis courts, stables and all! Never underestimate the power of integrity in client relationships and service. The smallest projects can become your next dream job. So grateful for amazing opportunities ahead and the trust of our clients. We’ll be able to show you this stunning finished project later this year.

I’m so grateful to all of my clients who worked with me in 2020. And for those who are trusting me with their dream homes in 2021. Here’s to a new year filled with promise!

All the best,

Kara