It’s been a little while since the last Interview with the Designer, and this one is definitely making up for lost time! I’m so so so excited to share a glimpse into Carter Kay Interiors in Atlanta!

With over 30 years of experience, Carter Kay not only has incredible vision for new and old spaces alike; she has a way of describing interiors so that you can almost see and feel them. Seriously, this interview was amazing. So I’ll let Carter take it from here!

When and why did you decide to become a designer?

Honestly, design is in my genes…..my mother designed her flower gardens each year; her uncles created Rock City gardens and developed Fairyland, GA on Lookout Mountain. Actually making a career of design never entered my mind until I transferred to Mount Vernon College and took some amazing courses which inspired me in every way.

What has been your greatest challenge as a designer?

Staying focused on my strong, clean design when all designers around me were going soft and floral.

How would you characterize your style?

Style pigeon holes us and says: “My way or the highway,” and CKI does not do that. Clients call us for our ability to listen to their needs and interpret their wishes. We then create environments which are tailored to their lifestyles.

Does your personal home fit your design style?

As far as collected antiques, contemporary art, and comfortable furniture, my home does reflect my style. I buy what I like: emerging artists, quirky accessories, unusual chairs, geometric patterned rugs, interesting textures……then we edit!!! I love the “art of the mix” as my mentor Dotty Travis used to say.

How does living in Atlanta influence the way you decorate?

Living in Atlanta is a designer’s gift. Because of the vast number of furniture and accessory sources available, we have had to become better “editors.” We have incredible sources, and because of them and our great working relationships, we are able to quickly find most items.

What was the focus of your first paid design project?

Too long ago!!! One of my earliest projects was a lake-house in the North Georgia mountains. It was a new wood log cabin with zero charm, so we added some! My clients were young with 2 small boys. We left the rough pine walls natural and painted the ceilings white and floors dark green. We covered all of the furniture in black and white gingham, hung folk art with loads of color, and had iron hardware made in the shapes of native leaves to hold back window coverings…not a flower in the mix!

What is the best advice you’ve received?

Use your imagination to visualize your project; use your ingenuity to bring all to fruition; keep your integrity by following through and delivering what is promised.

Who has been your greatest professional influence?

My first boss: Dotty Travis, the most fantastic designer I know. She is a creative problem solver, and in the long run, isn’t that what we as designers all do?

What is your go-to hostess gift?

Anything edible!

What is your dream design project?

Fortunately, we have had many: Montana fly-fishing ranch, Mexican villa on the Sea of Cortez, Georgia coastal 1850’s house renovated for new generations. Of course, an Italian estate would be fantastic!

What is your favorite design era and why?

As far as furniture, the late 1790s for Directoire and early 1800s for Biedermeier…I love the lighter fruitwoods with ebonized accents; chests and chairs with Egyptian influence; the restrained exuberance of the Greco-Roman realized during these years.

What do you have coming up next?

CKI is excited about the future of interior design. Our clientele is adventurous and well educated, and they inspire us to refine our vision to suit their needs…and we are always thrilled with the results of our collaboration! But right now, my son’s wedding in May has my attention!!

.

Website • Facebook • Instagram • Pinterest 

All photos courtesy of Carter Kay Interiors.