Experience

Intimate Living Interiors

• United States
• Design
• 1 - 100 Employee

• Founder and Principal Designer

  • Aug 2005 - Present

  Years ago, I was asked when my relationship with design began. What was it that led me to become a designer? At that time I believed that my realization of becoming a designer was birthed during my studies in Paris. The beauty of old world architecture, the cozy outdoor cafes, and ivy covered buildings combined to fill me with a deep sense of love and happiness. While it was this experience that called me to pursue a career in design, it wasn’t until years later that I realized this was not actually the birth of my love for design. It was however, the moment of recognition of an inherent quality which had always been within me; the love and appreciation of beauty in our built environment and the effect it has on us. This has become the cornerstone of our driving philosophy here at ILI. Over the years I have refined an approach to design that is known for its timeless sensibility, and most notably the ability to create a space driven by the uniqueness of each individual client. While creating a timeless environment, it is important to know that design trends run parallel to the societal trends of personal health and style, each of which have an emotional purpose that can enrich a space when properly sourced. As our Principal, my design vision imbues all of the work we do at ILI. I lead and collaborate with our team to ensure that every project meets and exceeds all of our clients’ expectations. The foundation of my design career is based in my rich worldly experience and my family's roots. That foundation runs through the culture of ILI, a space where personal relationships, a deep understanding of each client, and an approachable environment has made us a highly sought-after firm nationwide and globally. Show less



Butera Living

• Rancho Santa Fe, Ca.

• Project Manager

  • Sep 2003 - Jul 2006

  Kari was hired as the first Interior Designer upon the launch of this high-end furniture showroom and interior design studio. From day one, her myriad contributions were vital to the company’s incredible success. As the only designer during the studio’s early days, Kari’s naturally proactive approach led her to create the systems that would become the company’s standard operating procedure for all aspects of client projects—from ideation, to concept development, creative design, build planning, project management, implementation, and final installation. At Butera, Kari honed her expertise in purveying high-end furniture and antiques, designing custom furnishings, and refining architectural details. Her position allowed her to work with a collection of high-end builders and artisans to ensure each project was executed at the highest level of excellence. This is where Kari mastered the art of creating perfect environments for a select list of affluent clients with very specific visions and unique needs. And she always did it on time and within budget. Show less



Cortney-Ford Design

• San Diego, Ca.

• Interior Designer

  • Aug 1999 - Oct 2003

  During her time at Courtney-Ford Design, Kari honed her skills in managing a varied list of tasks in a high-volume environment. She oversaw project presentations, space plans, built-in drawings, specifications, art and accessories procurement, installation, and project management. In such a fast-moving firm, Kari became an expert in time management, client relations, and assessing the needs of multiple departments while handling multiple projects. CFD is where Kari developed her strict discipline to budget-driven and time sensitive projects. She worked with builders such as Richmond American Homes, Shea Homes, Pardee Homes, and Lennar Homes, among many others. Kari left Courtney-Ford Design with a thorough understanding of how to design for a wide demographic range, leading to consistent increases in successful sales for the firm’s home builder clients. Show less