Kathy Patton
Owner/Lead Designer, Kathy Patton Designs
Kathy Patton elevates and celebrates the lifestyle of her clients by visually reflecting the people who live in a home. Founded in 1995 and driven by the philosophy that “Life is short...make it beautiful,” Kathy Patton Designs is known for infusing light, freshness, elegance, and a dash of whimsy into timeless Southern design. Kathy was raised in a southern family where nightly dinners were (and still are) occasions accented by pretty tablescapes, good manners, candlelight, music, and lively conversation. These roots, combined with her early success as a well-traveled corporate executive, fuel her ability to marry classic and contemporary design elements that create interest and inspiration.
Kathy’s hallmark is being true to her clients’ tastes and stories, while taking them visually to a place they could never achieve on their own. She is highly sought after for her ability to visualize, articulate, and implement her clients’ unique “brand of beauty.” Her environments are described as the perfect combination of elegance, customization, and high function. Collaborating with her extensive network of exquisite makers and artisans, Kathy creates one-of-a-kind elements turning a pillow, wall unit, fireplace, or window into a work of art.
Kathy's work throughout the Southeast has been recognized in many ways, including her selection as a featured designer for the prestigious 27th Annual Cashiers Designer Showhouse (August 2024). Her renovation of a Tennessee River custom home was featured in a 10-page spread in Southern Home magazine in Jan/Feb 2024. Other recent projects include large-acreage estates, mountain retreats, urban condos, sophisticated corporate environments, outdoor spaces, and even a tiny home.
“I consider it a privilege to tell a client’s story through innovative and comfortable design. My job is to transform their space into a beautiful stage on which to maximize the seasons of their lives. Through careful observation and listening, I delight in elevating their look and infusing freshness and beauty that will stand the test of time.”
What Inspires Me?
“Giving the client exactly what they need, whether they realize it or not! I recently worked with one of my favorite award-winning artists to customize a large painting for a client that reflected her husband’s love of hunting. Upon seeing the piece installed over the two story fireplace, the husband leaned against the wall, studied it, and ended up in tears as he reflected on special times spent outdoors with generations of his family.”
“Another ‘husband’ story… after a long day of installation, I received a late night text with pictures from my client’s husband, who said: ‘I love it ALL! Thank you.’ That, to me is ‘success.’ That text made my day!”
“My Why? When God connects my love for people with the ability He has given me to visualize design, it fills my soul--and my sketchpad--with endless energy and creativity and appreciation that I get to do what I love.”