Business Details
Luxury Residential Interior Design Services in Mercer Island
Colleen Knowles Interior Design has been redefining luxury residential spaces in the Pacific Northwest for over three decades. Founded on the principle that exceptional design should harmonize aesthetics with functionality, our firm specializes in crafting bespoke interiors for primary residences, secondary homes, and comprehensive remodels. With a client retention rate exceeding 90% through referrals, we pride ourselves on our deep technical expertise that bridges architecture, design, and construction to preempt challenges before they arise. Our process begins with understanding your unique lifestyle needs and culminates in delivering meticulously documented designs executed by our curated network of regional and national professionals. Recognized as Mercer Island's top-rated design firm, we bring the same rigor and creativity honed through decades of commercial projects for Fortune 500 companies to every private residence we transform.Our NCIDQ-certified team ensures every detailfrom spatial planning to accessory placementis executed with precision while maintaining the warmth and personal touch that has defined our practice since 1993. By combining cutting-edge 3D visualization technology with traditional craftsmanship, we empower clients to make informed decisions while preserving the joy of the design journey. Our commitment to transparency extends to budget management, with clear documentation that prevents cost overruns and guarantees satisfaction at every project phase.
Services
Space Planning
Kitchen Design
Bathroom Remodels
Furniture Selection
Project Management
Lighting Design
Window Treatments
Interior Styling
Architect Coordination
Construction Documentation
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of luxury residential design experience with Fortune 500 project expertise
- NCIDQ-certified lead designer with proven technical and creative capabilities
- 90%+ referral rate from satisfied clients across multiple generations
- Comprehensive 3D visualization and documentation process prevents execution issues
- Curated network of regional contractors and national suppliers ensures quality
Associations and certifications
- National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ)
What people say
Exceptionally organized
Amazing to work with
Impeccable taste
Budget-conscious
Timely execution
Services
Comprehensive Interior Design
Our end-to-end interior design service transforms luxury residences through personalized space planning, material selection, and project execution. With expertise in new construction and remodels, we create cohesive environments that reflect client lifestyles while maintaining architectural integrity. Our process includes detailed documentation, vendor coordination, and on-site oversight to ensure flawless implementation.
Space Planning
We optimize spatial functionality through strategic furniture arrangement and architectural detailing. Our approach considers traffic flow, natural light, and ergonomic principles to create spaces that balance beauty with practicality. This service includes scaled floor plans and 3D visualizations to help clients visualize the transformed environment before implementation.
Kitchen and Bath Design
Specializing in high-end kitchen and bathroom transformations, we combine aesthetic vision with technical expertise to create functional masterpieces. Our service includes cabinetry layout, fixture selection, and material specification, with detailed construction documents ensuring precise execution of complex plumbing and electrical requirements.
Furniture Selection
We curate furniture selections that balance style, durability, and client preferences. This service includes sourcing custom pieces, specifying finishes, and coordinating delivery schedules. Our extensive vendor network provides access to exclusive materials while maintaining strict budget controls throughout the selection process.
Project Management
Our comprehensive project management ensures seamless execution from concept to completion. We coordinate contractors, monitor timelines, and conduct quality control inspections while maintaining open communication with clients. This service includes budget tracking, change order management, and final space styling to guarantee project success.
People
Colleen Knowles
Principal Designer
NCIDQ-certified interior designer with 30+ years of luxury residential experience. Former commercial design director for Fortune 500 companies, now specializing in bespoke home transformations. Recognized as Mercer Island's top-rated designer with 90% referral-based business.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Mercer Island, Seattle, and the San Juan Islands, with past projects in California and Washington State.
What design styles do you specialize in?
Our expertise spans traditional to contemporary styles, with particular strength in blending historic elements with modern functionality for timeless results.
How are design fees structured?
We offer hourly consultations ($600) and project-based pricing depending on scope, with transparent documentation of all material and labor costs.
Do you work with existing architects?
Yes, we frequently collaborate with client-selected architects and can recommend specialists for specific project needs.
What makes your firm different?
Our unique combination of commercial project experience, technical precision, and personalized service ensures both beautiful and functional outcomes.
How long do typical projects take?
Project timelines vary by scope but average 6-12 months for full remodels, with clear milestones established during initial planning.
Reviews (2)
Gigi Buchanan
Oct 27, 2020
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We hired Colleen to do a refresh of our home and it turned out gorgeous. Not only is Colleen a delight to work with, she has an innate ability to take an "ordinary space" and transform it into a work of art. I told her once that "she could read my mind". Colleen was organized and respectful of our budget. I only wish there were more stars to give her. I would hire Colleen to do any type of design project for us in the future!
Andrea Hegarty
Aug 22, 2020
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Colleen is the epitome of both professionalism and amazing talent! In 2017 She helped us turn an awkward space into the master bedroom of our dreams, and our master bathroom remodel is beyond amazing with a spa shower and tub, beautiful tile all coordinated with the master bedroom seamlessly. She helped with every decision from planning, contractor selection, interior design, furnishings and accessories, and gave us the space to weigh in and add our own touches as well. In 2019, we embarked on a full scale Kitchen remodel, and her designs led to a beautiful and functional space that we were able
