Q+A with Kayla: The Founder Behind the Interior Design Studio

In this edition of Q&A with Kayla, we’re getting personal. From what inspires me to the journey of establishing my own interior design studio, I’m sharing all about my experiences and the unexpected turns that brought me here.

Q1. What Interested You in Becoming an Interior Designer?

I have always been drawn to creative pursuits, particularly making things with my hands and finding ways to personalize my surroundings. As a child, I was constantly rearranging my bedroom and experimenting with colors and furniture arrangements. I am also a very Type A personality who loves organization and making things work more efficiently. Looking back, interior design feels like a natural combination of those two sides of my personality: creativity and an appreciation for order and function.

Q2. How Has Your Education Influenced Your Approach to Design?

My educational background is a bit of an unexpected combination, as I earned my bachelor’s degree in biology before pursuing a master’s degree in Interior Architecture & Design. While those two fields might seem worlds apart, they have actually shaped my approach to design in complementary ways. Biology gave me an appreciation for the natural world and the materials we bring into our homes, while interior architecture taught me how to plan spaces around people.

Q3. What Has Your Experience in the Design Industry Looked Like?

After college, I moved to Southern California where I began my career in construction project management before becoming an interior designer at an architecture firm. Years later, I found myself back in my hometown of Pittsburgh where I worked at a small interior design studio specializing in residential renovations and custom furnishings. My husband and I eventually made our way back west to Denver where I had a wonderful opportunity to join a luxury design firm specializing in sustainable interiors as their lead designer. Looking back over nearly 15 years, I am so grateful for the variety of career experiences as each has contributed to making me a well-rounded designer and a stronger partner for my clients.

Q4. Where Do You Find Design Inspiration?

I’m definitely an old soul and I think that translates into my tastes. I especially love the traditional architecture throughout the East Coast and could lose an afternoon looking through old design books or exploring antique shops. And as cliché as it might sound, travel is another big source of inspiration for me. There is so much to see and experience when visiting somewhere new – I always come home with a few new ideas.

Q5. What Do You Want Mabel Lane to be Known For?

I want Mabel Lane to be known for creating welcoming family homes that are refined and livable. Just as importantly, I want to build a studio that clients and fellow professionals genuinely enjoy working with – one they can count on for collaboration, integrity, and a commitment to their best interests. A home is such a meaningful investment, and I’m passionate about sharing what I’ve learned throughout my career to help homeowners feel confident in their decisions. Above all, I want every client to enjoy the experience of creating a home that will evolve with their family.

Interested in Learning More?

From new construction and renovations to furnishings and styling, we help homeowners navigate the design process and provide a cohesive vision for every stage of your project. Explore our full-service interior design offerings to see how we can help you with yours.