We had the good fortune of connecting with Kenzi McCullough and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kenzi, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

When I was first in college, my plan was to get a background in business so I could then intern and learn the skills of an interior designer using a practical, hands-on approach while in school. Once I’d gotten my bachelor’s in business and some decent design experience under my belt, I’d start making moves to open my own business. Well… due to where I was in life when graduating, a bout of imposter’s syndrome, and enjoying my marketing major more than I anticipated, I let that plan fall away and accepted a job doing the internal marketing for a local promotional products company, Brand IQ. And while I’ve enjoyed working with them for the past four and half years, I needed more creative in my life.. more design.

In March of 2021, I started as a remote designer for Modsy (an online interior design platform) and dropped down to working in marketing part time. There were challenges and frustrations but overall I enjoyed the experience I gained but in June 2022, I – along with an amazing group of designers – were swiftly let go during their unexpected shut down. Luckily, the mentioned group of designers began group texts to help educate each other about opportunities, softwares they were using and to provide general support as we all navigated those first few weeks. Some were leaving the design industry, some were finding jobs at established firms, some were going out on their own or picking up dormant businesses and some didn’t know yet.

I remember thinking that I didn’t want to lose my connection to the design world but because of the negative side of that type of platform, I didn’t want to go to another one. My husband has always been supportive of me pursuing things that make me happy & he encouraged me to take the jump. About three days after the layoff, I decided to start KMCC Design Co.

What should our readers know about your business?
KMCC Design Co. was born out of a passion for interiors and the effect they have on our everyday lives. I believe spaces within our homes should support our lifestyle and goals while providing a desired aesthetic. While I design all styles, my personal style is ever-evolving as I dive deeper into this industry. I’ve always been eclectic, but have slowly seen my tastes transform, incorporating warmer earth tones with mid-century modern silhouettes and unexpected, funky elements. Plants are a part of every design and I’m currently loving high contrast along with utilizing a mix of high end + budget items to create comfortable and approachable spaces.

What sets us apart is that our design process is set up in a way that allows for collaboration between the designer and client. I want to hear about their style and ideas for the space, but more than that, I want to learn about their lifestyle, family dynamic, the goals they have set for the new year and really get to know them because that is the knowledge that’s going to help us create a home unique to the their needs. I hope to always strike the balance of function + aesthetic with a curated feel in the spaces I design.

Have a project in mind? Let’s explore it! Shoot me an email at kenzi@kmccdesign.com or fill out the discovery form on our website!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
This is a tough one… there are so many great things to see and do in Houston!

Karbach Brewing Co. is a good place to hang out for the day! good beer + they have cool events going on all the time!
Clarkwood – their espresso martinis have a toasted marshmellow… need I say more?
Wicklow Heights – chill vibe, backyard feel. spicy blueberry marg is the best!!
Postino – such a cute spot. they have the best boards + brunch.
Georgia James – a lil fancy but awesome food! the smoked redfish dip is so. good.
Highland Village – this stretch of shops has a ton of options but isn’t usually as crowded as the Galleria. I also like stopping by Escalante’s for a beverage at some point (:
Buffalo Bayou Park – great for a long walk!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband, Mike, because he always supports me in everything I want to do and doesn’t let me let the nerves in, reminding me always that I’m a bad ass. His favorite phrase lately is “just let it rip babe”.

Website: www.kmccdesign.com

Instagram: @kmccdesignco

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kmccdesignco/

Facebook: @kmccdesignco

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.