I founded Karen Helme Designs over a decade ago after a career in IT project management for the banking and insurance industries. Yes Virginia, there is a life after pantyhose, board meetings and conference calls.
I have always loved design, and returned to school to receive my professional training at the Delaware College of Art and Design. Coupled with my degrees in History and Art History and my love of world travel, I bring a unique perspective to my work.
I have been lucky enough to stay in some extraordinary places in my travels and it dawned on me early on, what a true pity it was that we labor for fifty weeks out of the year, to spend two weeks some place special. Which got me thinking.... Shouldn't your home be the place you long to check into?
Expanding on the idea I asked myself, "what makes that place special?" Is it the bed; down pillows, crisp sheets, eiderdown comforters? I can have them at home. Is it the fluffy towels in the bathroom? Check, I've got that covered and for a few dollars more, I'll have them monogramed and really enjoy myself. Is it the view outside my window while I enjoy my morning coffee? It doesn't matter where you live, you can carve out a view that refreshes and revives. Throw in a linen napkin and you there.
These are the grace notes of life. The small things that bring pleasure and turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.
How does this translate into my design work?
Whether I'm updating a single room or managing a team for a major renovation, I strive to create functional, beautiful spaces that reflect my clients personal style. I am ever mindful that at the end of the day, I am helping my client find their grace notes, the things that make their houses a home.