The scope of interior design projects often expands as clients see the potential transformation that can be achieved from room to room. This was the case with Clare Kennedy’s project in Nashville.
The homeowner was seeking Clare's help in toning down the pre-existing bold, contemporary interior style to give it a more California vibe. To accomplish this, they selected new flooring and lighting, fresh paint, completed two bathroom remodels, a light kitchen refresh and architectural updates, including fireplaces and staircases. This was complete with furnishing and custom window treatments. “We undid a lot of those flashier elements in lieu of a more balanced classic feel,” says Clare.
Artwork that serves as a meaningful design detail
Citing the traditional bones of the house and the clients' "relaxed, happy" California vibe as project highlights, Clare set to work in the midst of Covid-era shipping delays, backorders and shortages. Despite these challenges, the home’s charming architectural features—arched doorways, hand hewn beams, and new walnut floors—made for an exciting project.
Certain interior elements resonated with Clare. “Two of my favorite art moments in the house are very specific to the homeowners. We worked with Sydney Clawson, a local Nashville artist, and the homeowners' kids to make a set of six paintings. They are a special, one-of-a-kind way of telling a great story for the family. Additionally, the homeowners purchased a small farm outside of Nashville. We commissioned my interiors photographer to go to the farm and take artistic photos. The homeowners met him onsite at 4am and they got some incredible imagery. We used one of the photos in the dining room—it's personal to them, and beautiful,” says Clare.
One of Clare’s favorite areas of the home is the family room, where she “highlighted the interesting angled ceilings with a patterned wallpaper, and used dark-painted tongue and groove paneling on the vertical walls to add texture.” In addition, she created a custom console to house upholstered dining stools for additional seating. “This room had two window niches that we were able to maximize by turning one into a reading nook and the other into a bench seat with an oval table for board games. It’s by far the most loved room in the house," says Clare.
The relationship with her client remained at the heart of the project. “The client really trusted us, and I think, overall, they felt like friends. We had a great working relationship, and they believed in our vision. Sometimes you just have great energy in a project, and that was the case here!”
Clare’s philosophy on working with clients
Curious about how Clare works? She shares a play-by-play of a typical scenario. “Generally our design process begins by getting to know our clients. We review their goals, and agree on an overall budget (construction budget as well as furnishings, fixtures and art, etc.). From there, we create a scope of work. We make sure to meet all the decision makers, including the architect, contractor/builder and any other pertinent trades we may need to be in communication with during the process,” notes Clare. “Once we've gathered information and created a timeline, we begin by creating moodboards to present to the client and confirm the overall direction. If we are working with an architect, we review plans and give design input. After that, we can begin the selection process—whether that be finishes, plumbing, appliances, furnishings, lighting or artwork. Once approved, ordering, tracking and follow-up begins. In the end, we do a full installation and reveal!”
About Clare Kennedy Interiors
Clare began her career on the operations side of a design firm over a decade ago where she developed her love of design and sourcing unique pieces. However, her "first major breakout project was six years ago. It was for a client who was a design enthusiast, and was wanting to take risks and think outside of the box. In the end, the project got published and helped launch my career,” she recalls.
Clare believes that connecting with clients is the key to a successful project. “I spend a lot of time on the front end getting to know my potential clients' goals, family structure, how they live and what their dreams are for their project,” she shares of her process. “Next, I clearly explain to them how our design process works, and what factors play into getting the best outcome. After these initial conversations about goals, money and process, I make a determination about whether CKI is the best fit for the job. My most successful projects come when our values and goals are aligned and we have open and honest communication, which is all about connection.”
Book a consultation call or submit a full-service project inquiry to work with Clare here.
