Q&A with Kathy Abell of Kathy Ann Abell Interiors

Kathy Ann Abell Interiors

Our Designer Network is a group of trailblazers and icons that Sunset and sister publications Coastal Living and Southern Living work with to curate the best home designs for the magazines. 

This week, we feature Kathy Abell, president and lead designer of Kathy Ann Abell Interiors in San Diego, California.

Sunset: How would you describe your style?

KA: Comfortable coastal.

Sunset: What’s a design trend you’re loving right now?

KA: As a perennial lover of navy, I love that it’s having a resurgence.

Sunset: What’s your No. 1 piece of design advice for homeowners?

KA: Hire a designer!

Sunset: What are your (beach, mountain, lake, farm) house essentials?

KA: Every beach house should have some cabana stripes! Every vacation home needs a cozy chair to enjoy the view from.

Sunset: What’s your go-to statement-making front door paint color?

KA: It really depends on the architecture and design of the home. We believe it’s important to always keep the homes integrity in mind.

Sunset: Coastal/Southern/Western destination of choice?

KA: Princeville, Kauai, Hawaii.

Sunset: Favorite places to shop?

KA: For décor, I love shopping in antique stores on my travels! For clothing, I love shopping in little boutiques.

Sunset: Favorite designers/tastemakers/etc. to follow on Instagram?

KA: Sarah Richardson.

Sunset: Favorite hotels to stay in on the coast?

KA: During my travels, I’ve found I prefer staying in a private residence. My husband and I have a condo in Princeville, Kauai, and it’s my favorite place in the world to be!

Sunset: When it comes to (beach house) kitchens, what’s your preference: Island or peninsula?

KA: Island—perfect for entertaining!

Follow Kathy Ann Abell Interiors on Instagram.

Kathy Ann Abell Interiors10180 Quail Canyon RoadEl Cajon, CA 92021(619) 938-0446https://kathyannabell.com/

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