Wayne to Water
Kim Kristire’s interior-design career has taken her from her hometown of Wayne to beach communities such as Longport, N.J., and La Jolla, Calif. “I specialize in relaxed living,” says Kristire. “I show people that relaxed, comfortable living can still be tasteful and stylish.”
Kristire’s Haverford home furnishings store, Simply Cottage—filled with everything from hostess gifts to chandeliers—epitomizes her design aesthetic. “Whether my client lives on the Main Line or a beach town, I work really hard to bring out the ‘wow’ factor with my designs,” she says.
Personal decorating style: From casual chic to traditional with an edge.
Favorite room in her house: My den. It’s very cozy.
Most prized possession: I have an antique chair that I re-covered with a small leopard print that’s now my desk chair. Designer who inspires her: Michael S. Smith. His work is classic and timeless.
Design advice she loves to give: Your home has to reflect you. Take your time and select things you love.
Color she couldn’t design without: Farrow & Ball’s “Borrowed Light.” Farrow & Ball has my favorite colors—such warmth and depth.
Design element she loves to incorporate into a space: Layers and layers of texture through fabrics, pillows, wallpaper, accessories, etc.
Favorite design trend of the moment: Sunburst mirrors and very full floor-to-ceiling drapes with rings.
Favorite rooms to design: Bedrooms and living rooms.
Her definition of good taste: Simple, comfortable, chic—timeless with an edge.
Biggest decorating faux pas: People who paint their houses first and buy furniture to match the paint.
Three words that sum up her design style: Warm, comfortable, inviting.
