Kenneth Byrd a Design Mind

We are pleased and honored to have Kenneth Byrd of Kenneth Byrd Design, based in Richmond, VA, share his design insights in our Design Minds series. The Kenneth Byrd Design firm will be participating in the upcoming fall Richmond Symphony Orchestra League (RSOL) Designer House, as a fundraiser for the Richmond Symphony.

Please scroll down to read the full interview with Kenneth about interior design and how he uses a contemporary approach with “city-chic” style and emotional appeal to create sophisticated interiors with lasting intrigue.

How and when did you become interested in design?

I first noticed an interest in design when I was a child, I’d rearrange furniture in my room growing up. My parents allowed me to rearrange furniture and redecorate the various living rooms. It wasn’t until early adulthood that I took a serious interest and pursued design education.

How do you describe your signature style?

City-chic, a thoughtful amalgamation of sleek, urban sophistication and the warmth and soul of things found in earlier era. We specialize in restoration and modernization of historic properties, from private homes to large scale condominium developments.

Do you have a main goal to achieve in your design and/ or rules that apply to your projects? What is your creative process for your projects?

Our main goal is to strike the perfect balance between comfort and beauty, while creating an interest and mood through a visual narrative. By encouraging our clients to reach beyond their usual comfort zones it allows us to create an inspired experience for them.

What inspires you and is currently on your design mind?

The architecture and history of the space is what inspires me most. I love designing modern rooms in older homes, the combination makes for a dynamic story and much more successful experience for the user. As far as what’s on my design mind: I’m big into wallpaper ceilings at the moment. It’s easy to forget the impact a ceiling may have on the space, so consider this extension the 5^th wall when determining your paint or wallpaper scheme.

What advice can you share for those starting out in your industry?

My best advice is for you to enjoy the process as well as always continue learning and growing as a designer and as a person. We’re so fortunate to be doing what we have so much love and passion for, but it’s quite easy to take this for granted or lose motivation. We often get caught up and weighed down by the day-to-day stresses the industry often affords but staying focused and positive will carry you through. Always remember that you’re in the business of enhancing people’s lives by bringing beauty and function, so have fun and enjoy it.

Here are a few examples below of just some of Kenneth’s client projects.