Kathlyn Shaw Interiors

08/12/2026

Some houses ask to be reinvented. This one asked to be remembered.

This 1960s home reminded me of my grandmother’s house, and I wanted to preserve that sense of charm and familiarity. Rather than removing the original metal railings, I let them become part of the story — pairing them with checkerboard flooring, warm herringbone hardwood, updated trim and a thoughtful mix of old and new.

It would have been easy to make everything new. But good design is also knowing what not to change.

08/06/2026

Behind every beautiful space is a process.

A designer’s fee is based on the agreed scope of work. Frequent calls, excessive messaging, delayed decisions, changes after approval, and project interruptions all require additional time, coordination, and problem-solving that can impact timelines and project costs.

The best renovations happen when there is trust, respect, clear communication, and timely decision-making. Trust the planning, respect the process, and whenever possible, plan vacations around your renovation—not during it.

✨ Trust the expertise.
✨ Respect the process.
✨ Value the partnership.
✨ Enjoy the result.

07/31/2026

Same sofa. Two very different looks.

One of the questions I get asked most is where to buy furniture. My answer is always the same: invest in quality over trends.

This Montauk sofa has been with me for 13 years and has lived through young kids jumping on it, movie nights, sleepovers, and now teenagers crashing on it after school. It has been recovered three times, proving that good furniture can evolve with your style instead of ending up in a landfill.

When shopping for upholstery, look beyond the showroom floor:
• Performance fabrics
• High rub counts
• Down-wrapped cushions versus basic foam
• Quality construction and a solid frame

The beauty of a well-made sofa is that it becomes the foundation of the room. Change the pillows, coffee table, artwork, or styling, and it can feel completely different while still serving your family for decades.

Timeless design isn’t about spending the most money—it’s about buying once and buying well.

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06/16/2026

Small space. Big impact.
A moody guest bathroom featuring marble, a custom integrated vanity, waxed Venetian plaster walls and ceiling, brushed brass details, and alabaster lighting. Layered textures and timeless materials create a space that feels both elegant and unforgettable.
The powder room is often the one space every guest experiences—so why not make it extraordinary?

06/16/2026

Design in 2026: Beautiful Spaces, Built Better

While trends come and go, great design is still about creating homes that feel timeless, functional, and deeply personal.

What am I up to these days? A little bit of everything—and that’s exactly how I like it.

✨ Designing spaces that reflect the people who live in them
✨ Managing construction projects from concept to completion
✨ Solving problems, finding creative solutions, and keeping projects moving forward
✨ Working with a wide range of budgets to create show-stopping results without compromising on style

One of my greatest strengths is being hands-on throughout the entire process. From the first sketch to the final styling touches, I’m actively involved every step of the way—coordinating trades, managing timelines, sourcing materials, and ensuring every detail comes together seamlessly.

Whether it’s a full-scale renovation or a thoughtful refresh, exceptional design isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about making smart decisions, maximizing value, and creating a space you’ll love for years to come.

Here’s to building beautiful homes with intention, creativity, and a little bit of construction dust along the way.

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06/01/2026

A private wellness retreat, hidden inside my clients own home.

Wrapped in timeless travertine and warm natural wood, this spa-inspired bathroom was designed to slow life down and create a daily ritual of restoration.

A deep Japanese-style soaking tub offers the perfect place to unwind after a long day, while also doubling as a refreshing cold plunge for moments to embrace the health benefits of contrast therapy. The oversized ceiling-mounted rain shower delivers a luxurious, immersive experience, creating the feeling of standing beneath a warm tropical rainfall.

Beyond the bath, a custom two-person sauna provides a dedicated space to relax, detoxify, and recharge. Heated floors keep every step comfortable, while a bidet toilet adds an extra layer of everyday luxury and wellness.

Thoughtfully designed storage keeps surfaces calm and clutter-free, and a dedicated hair and makeup station transforms daily routines into moments of self-care.

Every detail was considered—from the brushed nickel fixtures and natural stone textures to the lighting, warmth, and functionality—creating a space that feels more like a boutique spa than a bathroom.

Because luxury isn’t just about how a space looks. It’s about how it makes you feel.

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05/29/2026

How do we design a second-storey addition and keep the reins pulled tight on a strict budget?

By making every decision before architecture, engineering, and permits begin.

The layout, proportions, materials, windows, rooflines, and curb appeal are all being thoughtfully considered upfront so that when drawings start, we’re not paying to redesign the same ideas over and over again.

I love projects like this. Being challenged to be resourceful often leads to the most creative solutions, and there’s something incredibly satisfying about helping clients achieve a beautiful result without spending money where they don’t need to.

So far, this is my favourite rendition—and we’re just getting started.

05/13/2026

Sometimes great design is about knowing where to save and where to splurge.

We kept costs lower with pre-finished cabinetry, allowing the natural stone to become the star of the kitchen. The movement, texture, and beauty of real stone brings an energy that completely elevates the space.

Opening the walls to capture the backyard view made the biggest impact of all — bringing in light, nature, and a feeling that changes the entire room.

01/11/2026

10/20/2025

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing like a kitchen that blends timeless design with a touch of warmth. Natural stone, soft grey cabinetry, and gold accents create a space that feels both modern and inviting. The perfect backdrop for cozy gatherings, pumpkin spice, and slow Sunday mornings.