We love collaborating with local designers and one of the recent projects our flooring specialist Brandon Cook worked on was with an amazingly talented Amy Kelly. She’s the Owner & Lead Designer at Après Sun, a full-service interior design studio located on 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, FL. We connected with Amy to learn more about her passion for design and see the latest projects she helped her clients create.
RF: How would you describe your signature design style, and how it has evolved over the years?
AK: My signature style could be described as a harmonious blend of coastal elegance and modern warmth. I gravitate towards clean lines, warm neutrals, and textures that evoke a sense of comfort and luxury, often complemented by subtle hints of sea-inspired tones. Over the years, my style has evolved to include more personalization—bringing in clients’ unique stories and local influences to create spaces that are both timeless and deeply personal. Fun fact, I personally generally dislike the color blue- however I have an appreciation for good design and it’s the perfect example that no matter the color and style – good design is like a work of art.
RF: Walk us through your process when starting a new project with a client. How do you balance their vision with your expertise?
AK: I begin every project by truly listening. During our initial consultations, I focus on understanding my client’s lifestyle, preferences, and needs. From there, I blend their vision with my expertise by curating a design that enhances their ideas while ensuring functionality, cohesiveness, and timelessness. It’s about collaboration—I guide them with mood boards, samples, and concepts that push boundaries while keeping their core vision intact.
RF: Can you tell us about a recent project that you’re particularly proud of and why it stands out to you?
AK: I recently completed a luxury rental property designed to be both stunning and practical for vacationers. It was a 15-month building project where I worked closely with the homeowners to ensure the space felt luxurious yet welcoming. It stands out because we achieved a seamless blend of high-end finishes with durable, functional design elements, making it both beautiful and resilient for high turnover. Although the home is primarily an investment property, the client didn’t want anything cookie cutter and truly treated it as a custom build home.
RF: What’s your favorite part of the interior design process, from initial consultation to final reveal?
AK: My favorite part begins with space planning and floor plan revisions. I love working closely with the architects and homeowners to fine-tune the flow of a space, ensuring that it’s both functional and beautiful from the ground up. Of course, the final reveal is the most rewarding moment. It’s magical to see all the hard work and collaboration come together and witness the client’s reaction as they walk into a space that feels truly theirs.
RF: How have collaborations with local retailers or builders enhanced your projects? Can you share a specific example?
AK: Absolutely collaborating with local builders and artisans allows me to incorporate unique, high-quality craftsmanship into my projects. For example, on one project, I worked with a local woodworker to create custom cabinetry that not only fit the space perfectly but also added a layer of charm and personality that wouldn’t have been possible with a standard option.
RF: What inspired you to pursue a career in interior design, and how did you get your start in the industry?
AK: As a young child, I was hooked on design shows, captivated by the transformations and how spaces could completely change with creativity and vision. In middle school, my school offered a blueprint class as an elective, and I was immediately enamored. From that point on, I knew design was my passion. At 13 years old, I had the opportunity to redesign my bedroom, and it remains one of the most impactful core moments of my life. Funny enough, my color scheme was yellow and blue, which still makes me laugh because I never remember a time loving the color blue – but that’s a full circle moment again going back to having an appreciation for good design.
RF: How do you stay current with design trends while maintaining a timeless aesthetic in your work?
AK: I keep an eye on trends through industry publications, trade shows, and social media, but I approach them with caution. My goal is always to incorporate trends subtly—through accents or furnishings—while keeping the foundation of a space timeless. This ensures the design stays relevant for years to come.
RF: Can you describe a challenging project you’ve worked on and how you overcame any obstacles?
AK: Generally, the most challenging part of most projects involves tight timelines and managing the client’s habits when it comes to choosing their finishes. To keep things on track, I created a streamlined decision-making process, offering curated options rather than overwhelming them with choices. Regular communication and trust-building were key to overcoming these obstacles and delivering a successful outcome.
RF: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to homeowners looking to refresh their space without a full redesign?
AK: Start with small changes that make a big impact, like updating your lighting, incorporating new textiles, or refreshing paint colors. These elements can instantly elevate a space without requiring a full renovation.
RF: How do you incorporate sustainability and eco-friendly practices into your design projects?
AK: I prioritize sourcing materials and furnishings from local artisans to reduce the carbon footprint. I also focus on selecting eco-friendly finishes, sustainable fabrics, and energy-efficient lighting whenever possible. It’s about making mindful choices that are better for the environment while maintaining a high level of design.
You can learn more about Amy Kelly on Après Sun website and studio’s social media. If you need help with designing your new space or remodeling an outdated home, contact us today or stop by one of our showrooms.
