Karen Kettler has a weak spot for kitchens. As they are “where everyone hangs out,” the renowned local designer especially enjoys providing Charlotteans with luxurious kitchens perfect for entertaining, testing out a new recipe, or simply for enjoying a glass of pinot grigio after work. When Kettler moved back to Charlotte after living in Boston, starting Karen Kettler Design seemed an appropriate next step. She immediately immersed herself in the traditional-yet-evolving design world that Charlotte is known for. It paid off. Now, the kitchen and bath specialist works with clients to create a custom fit design—and Charlotte can’t get enough.
“The best compliment on completion after months of planning is when a client tells you that they wouldn’t change a thing,” Kettler muses. “I love that every project I do is a reflection of the family’s unique lifestyle and aesthetics.”
When looking at a Kettler-conceived kitchen or bath, one can expect a signature aesthetic: an organic, clean design that works to make the space visually attractive, yet completely functional. Thanks to a strong partnership with neutral colors, Kettler’s designs are all the more on-trend and long-lasting. By pairing a typical neutral color scheme with pops of bright white, the alluring design can end up being universally lovable.
The house tells you what it needs—the rest evolves.
For Kettler, designing specialty kitchens and baths in the breathtaking North Carolina mountains and calming beaches is a personal favorite. However, she thrives off of the ever-changing design aesthetic right here in Charlotte. The next trend Kettler sees taking over the Queen City is matte black and gold plumbing, lighting fixtures, appliances, and hardware—an element Kettler has already implemented into her designs.
“I’m loving navy blue and matte gold accents,” Kettler shares. “Combine that with a crisp white, and the results are beautifully classic.”
Since Kettler enjoys mixing it up, she avoids limiting herself to one particular design style. Watching unique design elements come together in a custom crafted result brings Kettler immense satisfaction, as her job is then complete. The team of innovative designers has done everything from luxury marble bathrooms to rustic kitchens, perfect for families of all kinds. However, Kettler’s hands-on approach remains constant.
“My designs are a collaboration between me and the homeowner,” Kettler explains. “I like the finished product to be a reflection of their individual taste and style of home. The house tells you what it needs—the rest evolves.” The house tells you what it needs—the rest evolves.”
