Modern library interior designed by a hospitality interior design studio, featuring white shelves filled with books, a large window, white tables, and gray booth seating along the right side.

Designer Spotlight

15 QUESTIONS WITH Emma

Emma is a graduate from Northern Arizona University where she received her Bachelor of Preforming and Fine Arts in Interior Design. Throughout her college education and interior design internships, she has developed a passion for all things related to design. She enjoys the unique challenges, creativity and detailed processes of a design project.

Get to know Emma through 15 questions that highlight the designer behind the work.

A woman sitting on a white chair.

1. Where are you from?

I am a Colorado native, which feels increasingly rare these days.

2. What drew you to Residential Interior design over something else?

Pursuing a career in residential interior design always felt like a natural path for me. My parents own a residential design firm, and growing up around their projects gave me a firsthand look at how meaningful and exciting this work can be. I was constantly inspired seeing spaces come to life and watching how thoughtful design can transform a space.

What I love most about residential design is that no two projects are the same. Every client brings a new story, style, and vision, which creates endless opportunities to explore different finishes, furniture, art, and accessories. That variety keeps the work exciting and pushes me to stay creative and thoughtful with every design.

3. What’s one design trend you’re loving right now?

One trend I’m loving right now is the use of bold colors and funky patterns, particularly brought in through accessories and soft goods. It’s such a fun, approachable way to bring personality into a space without committing long-term. Pillows, throws, art, accent furniture, and decorative objects allow you to experiment and take risks in a way that feels flexible.

4. What’s a design trend you hope never comes back?

This may be a common answer among designers, but millennial gray is a trend I hope never makes a comeback. It often creates spaces that feel cold, flat, and lack personality. In my opinion, homes should feel warm, layered, and full of personal touches.

5. Where do you look for and find inspiration in the world?

I find most of my inspiration through travel, especially from European architecture and interiors. Exploring different cities, cultures, and historic spaces has shown me how design can tell a story and reflect a sense of place.

6. What do you consider your greatest achievement?

One of my greatest achievements has been choosing to go to college and pursue interior design. School never came naturally to me growing up, and I couldn’t picture myself following a traditional college path. However, interior design was something I had always felt genuinely passionate about. I told myself I would apply to one school, and if I got in, I would take it as a sign. When I was accepted, I knew I had to go for it. College turned out to be some of the best years of my life. For the first time, I felt completely engaged, motivated, and excited about what I was learning. I’ve been at KTI since graduating, and I can truly say I love what I do every single day. The projects are inspiring, and the team and company are absolutely amazing. Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of myself for taking on the challenge and choosing the path that felt right for me.

7. What’s your favorite kind of space to design?

Basement rec rooms are one of my favorite spaces to design because they give clients the freedom to step outside their comfort zone. These spaces are often where people feel most comfortable going big and bold, which opens the door to more creative and unexpected design choices. Whether it’s with color, texture, or statement furniture, rec rooms allow for so much personality and expression.

8. What’s the best part about finishing a project?

The best part of finishing a project is truly seeing the team’s hard work and creativity come together at once. While the entire process is exciting and fun, the final reveal – when all the pieces fall into place – is incredibly rewarding. The client’s reaction and excitement are always a highlight as well.

9. What’s your favorite KTI luxury residential project?

This one is such a hard choice, but project Aces takes the top spot. It was the first project I had the opportunity to see through from start to finish during my time at KTI, and being part of the entire process made it especially meaningful. Watching the design evolve from concept to completed space was incredibly rewarding and gave me an even deeper appreciation for the work that goes into every detail. The install is approaching shortly and the results will be absolutely stunning!! 

10. What’s your favorite non-residential KTI project?

This one is hard to choose, but the Canyon Club project from the Hospitality studio really stands out. Everywhere you look there are STUNNING design details. The finishes, furniture, lighting and art make the space feel very well curated. It also has an unbelievable view of the Arizona desert.

11. What’s one food you couldn’t live without?

Sushi, for sure!

12. Take us through 5-9 PM after your 9-5 PM.

Evenings are my favorite. After work, I always start by walking Banks, my two-year-old Golden Retriever. It’s the perfect way to transition out of office mode. Then it’s time in the kitchen, where cooking is both relaxing and creative for me, and I love experimenting with new recipes. After dinner, my fiancé and I usually play board games or catch up on a show. Shrinking is our current favorite.

13. Where can we find you on a Saturday?

Most likely outdoors, embracing the seasons – skiing in winter, hiking or golfing in warmer months. I almost always end the day with a yummy drink and dinner on a patio with family or friends, and of course the dogs.

14. Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled?

Norway, without a doubt. I spent two incredible weeks there last summer with my fiancé and family, and it was truly a once in a lifetime experience. The scenery was unforgettable, the adventures were endless, and every day felt special. It’s a destination I’ll always cherish and one I’d recommend to anyone.

15. How would you describe your personal design style?

I would describe my personal design style as transitional when it comes to the foundational elements and core furnishings. I’m drawn to timeless pieces that feel balanced and refined, creating a strong, classic base throughout my home.

Where I really infuse personality is through accessories, soft goods, and artwork. I love incorporating pieces that feel collected and meaningful—items I’ve gathered through travel and over the years. These layers bring texture, color, and pattern into the space while also telling a story.