Alexandra Killion specializes in using color, texture and fine art to tell the stories of her clients. By taking every aspect into consideration — from finishes to fixtures — she carefully curates timeless spaces of livable elegance by putting a contemporary spin on classic design. Immersed in the design world for as long as she can remember, Alexandra loves that she gets to live her passion every day — designing spaces that give people joy when they walk into their homes; Always keeping in mind it’s the details that truly make a home unique. Discover how Alexandra Killion transforms homes into curated works of art in today’s Designer Friday.
Andrew Joseph: How do you approach a new design project?
Alexandra Killion: I love to get to know the client and learn about how they live, their style, and what they are looking for in a home. Then I research images and have a collaboration meeting to make sure the design is headed in the right direction. When my clients share inspiration images I try to look past the details and ascertain the overall vision and mood they are looking to create. Then I can put my own spin with creative touches to bring their vision to life in the most creative and authentic way possible.
This corner comes to life with a simple yet striking touch — a plant on a pedestal that effortlessly ties in with the tones of the wallpaper.
AJ: Can you tell us about a design trend you are excited about?
AK: My team and I are so excited that unique marbles and other natural materials are being embraced right now. People used to be so afraid of the wear and tear and manufactured materials like quartz were so prominent for so long. It is great to see bolder choices being popular which brings an opportunity to show clients that the patina is part of the charm — spots on the marble and worn unlacquered brass add such charm and warmth to a space. Let it age — perfection is boring.
AJ: What is your favorite aspect of your job?
AK: I absolutely love creating a room out of nothing and designing with a real person in mind. Getting in their head and designing the surroundings they inhabit every day is such a cool and intimate part of my work. I truly believe the spaces we live in have the opportunity to create an atmosphere that inspires and brings joy to people on a daily basis — design matters.
The client reveal is, of course, another favorite. I love to see how excited they are for the culmination of a long project — it’s the best feeling to see them light up about all the details and how everything came together with them in mind.
This inviting space layers earthy tones and textures, from the rich green velvet sofa to the natural wood and woven accents, creating a grounded yet elegant atmosphere.
AJ: What is your favorite type of space to design?
AK: Designing living rooms is my favorite because there are so many different directions to take them, they are so versatile. From a moody, formal living room where they can entertain and have cocktail hour to open and bright family rooms. So much life happens in these spaces.
I have a young family myself, so I love incorporating sturdy furnishings and materials that are made to last within high-end design. I enjoy styling bookshelves and coffee tables to reflect the people living there and putting together a space that invites conversation, playtime, movie nights, and everything in between.
AJ: What is your favorite type of furniture to design?
AK: Designing furniture is such a fun facet of my job. I started commissioning custom pieces for projects to get the scale and proportion just right for my projects and ended up launching an entire line specifically to find pieces that could combine historical elements with present-day aesthetics. My favorite things to design are side tables and coffee tables. Great ones with simple lines can be hard to find, you want something functional but also that adds to the overall design. It is a great opportunity to introduce a different material to the space, like burl wood or plaster.
This living room blends textures effortlessly, with cozy shearling chairs, a marble table, and a velvet armchair adding subtle variety to the space.
AJ: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
AK: A mountain house would be a dream right now, so manifesting that into the universe! I love to vacation in the mountains, summer is a ghost town here in Houston as everyone escapes to higher, cooler altitudes. Mountain homes are such a wonderful opportunities to highlight natural material and neutral colors that lean into simplified design to allow the surrounding nature to shine.
AJ: Can you describe a project that you’re particularly proud of?
AK: Launching AK Collective earlier this year is something I am immensely proud of. To have a concept from start to finish that was completely and uniquely derived from the brand I created was such a dream. I look forward to creating and adding new pieces as the collection continues to grow and evolve.
AJ: Can you describe your design philosophy in three words?
AK: Timeless, Fresh & Livable.
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