Kate Deupree Studio is a women-owned and operated business that began in 2021. KDS is a full-service boutique interior design firm, offering residential + commercial design services. Specializing in programming, planning, material + furniture selection, construction drawings, visual imagery, and procurement.
KDS is an intentionally small boutique studio because we love to be involved in every part of the design process. We offer a holistic perspective, from planning, to construction, to completion.
We have an all-in approach, fully engaging with trades, contractors, and architects to ensure the client & team’s vision is carried through to completion. Collaboration is key. Our team is proficient in construction documentation, 3D renderings, furniture procurement + management, and material selection for each project.
kate evans - founder + principal interior designer
I’m Kate, and I founded Kate Deupree Studio in 2021. After spending 15 years in Chicago (going to interior design school + working for a variety of architecture firms), my family and I decided to move back to West Michigan, where I was born and raised. With over 18 years of interior design experience in commercial and residential interiors, it is a dream come true to own my own boutique design firm.
Did you always know you wanted to be a designer?
No! Growing up I had no idea what interior design was. I was very into sports + recieved sports scholarships to play basketball in college, that was always my primary focus. When I graduated with an advertising degree, I moved to Chicago and worked for a magazine publication. While there, I was exposed to art, fashion, and culture, which made me realize I loved being creative. I loved the energy of the big city - I started taking classes after my day job and loved it. Interior design is a balance of creativity, technical + business skills, which felt natural to me. I’m an organized and creative person, so it felt really good to finally go after something I was passionate about. The projects I worked on really exposed me to an array of people, businesses, and trades in which I formed a wonderful network. I’m very grateful to have had the opprotunity to go after something that at the time seemed unfocused, spontaneous, and different that what I was exposed to growing up. It ended up being the best choice for me.
Besides design, what sparks joy in your life?
I have a really cool family and that sparks a lot of joy. My kids are hilarious and I love being their mom. My favorite place on earth is our family cottage. I love to travel - experiencing new/old places brings a lot of inspiration into my life. Skiing, tennis, swimming in Lake Michigan are my faves
Why hire an interior designer?
Renovations and building a new home / space are enormous investments. Making sure that you have an experienced designer to help you navigate that process is worth it. It’s much more than selecting pretty materials. There is a critical process that needs to be worked through + having a designer to help you with that process, in my opinion, will save you time and money in the end. At KDS, our team is professionally trained with the resources to help you through each phase of the project, from start to finish.
payton novotny - interior designer
Hi, I’m Payton. I grew up in Northern Michigan in a small town called Charlevoix. I always loved all things art related when I was younger. My passion for creating lead me to Kendall College of Art and design where I graduated with a BFA in Interior Design. Through my internships and studio courses, I have gained a handful of valuable experience.
Where do you find your inspiration in design?
Mostly from magazine subscriptions and Instagram reels
What are three things you can’t live without?
My hydro jug water bottle, Carmex Chapstick, and my kindle.
If you aren’t in the studio, where can we find you?
The beach, on a long walk, or at a vintage shop.
If you had to design with on color or texture for the rest of your life, what would you choose?
Polished Nickel
Best place you have ever traveled?
Jamacia
kate kuiper - interior designer
Hi there, I’m Kate. I am a Grand Rapids native and love everything Michigan has to offer. I attended Kendall College of Art and Design, and graduated with a BFA in Interior Design, and a minor in Printmaking. After working at a handful of corporate & architecture and design firms, I love to collaborate and be hands-on with every project possible. I thrive off the creativity and the problem-solving aspect behind each design + love to push the boundaries to think outside the box.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
I really enjoy the beginning stages of understanding what the client wishes for their space and then dreaming up ideas. I love the excitement of what’s to come and experimenting with different colors, textures, and shapes within the space. I love to quickly sketch ideas out on paper with ink, a medium that helps me connect further to the design.
Where do you find your inspiration as a designer?
I beleive that designers + creatives can often have a special eye for finding inspiration in every part of your life. Whether it be outdoors, fashion, artwork, film, or a built environment in a new city, there are always hints of new concepts and spaces that are waiting to be created. I also am building a collection of interior design coffee table books that are refreshing to flip through. Following my inspirations online, whether designers or artists, always shows me new ideas.
Besides design, what sparks joy in your life?
You will find me either at hot yoga, trying a new restaurant around Grand Rapids, or seeing a new exhibit at the GRAM. A Madcap iced mocha with whole milk is a necessity to get me through the week. I have an affinity to be near Lake Michigan once the sun comes out, + am always scheming up the next art project or printmaking concept to start.
Best place you have ever traveled?
Barcelona, Spain + Historic San Juan, Puerto Rico are closely tied as my favorite spots I have experienced so far. Next on the bucket list is Portugal, Tulum, and Copenhagen.