Profile: Katie Stassi

Last week I had the pleasure of meeting fellow Houstonian Katie Stassi. We meet at Starbucks for coffee and soon one hour turned into two. Talented, amazing, beautiful, driven and kindhearted are only but a few words to describe this wonderful woman. I truly felt as though I had known her forever. Katie began her design business less than three years ago and this year was named one of domino’s top 10 designers for 2008. Yeah Houston!

Katie says that she knew from an early age that she had a gift, “I could visualize and see things that most other people could not. My bedroom, which should have been filled with dolls and teen beat posters, turned into what my family called my apartment.”


Katie is a minimalist with a discerning eye for the finer things in life but used sparingly in a traditional yet modern way that is light hearted, sophisticated, youthful and fun. “In my opinion, a house is more than just a home. It is a sanctuary. A place you can call your own. An extension of your personality. An escape that takes you away from life’s unexpected twists and turns. A friend that you care for, share memories with and relish all of the days in your life.”

She is currently working on projects in Houston, TX, Aspen, CO and New Orleans, La.


How would you describe your personal style?
The best of both worlds! Antiques and modern furnishings! Highs and low's! I am always caught in the middle! My feet are always positioned in different doors! I love fine antiques that are old, crusty and dilapidated. Why repair or restore? Displaying it's age and history is where true beauty is revealed!

I also love classic, modern furnishings and bright, colorful art. It adds life and
character to a home. I feel as though my job is that of an explorer. Hunting and discovering the treasures of many talented and brilliant minds! I consider my days "field trips"! There is always something new to be learned and someone new and interesting to meet.

What is the one thing in life you can not live without?
God.

What books are currently on your bedside table?
There are too many to name, but a few are:Bible; City Chic by Nina Willdorf; The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell; A Quick Word with Beth Moore by Beth Moore


What inspires your designs and creativity?
The simple things in life! Sunshine, water, flowers, words, symbols, books, magazines, headlines, churches, music and, of course, God!

Who would you most like to meet and how would you spend the day?
Oprah! She makes a difference in the world and she defies the odds. She exudes confidence and power but in a positive and constructive way. I would love to spend the day with her in a casual relaxing way. Just as a friend would...talking about life, curled up in a chair, drinking coffee, taking a walk with the sun shining down upon us and being surrounded by nature.


What is your favorite luxury in life?
Down time! Relaxing outside by a pool or open water with a stack of books and magazines next to me, sun shining, breeze blowing and music playing!

What is your most prized possession?
My family!

Who are your style icons?
Gwynth Paltrow - naturally classic and beautiful, yet in a modern way
Katie Holmes, classic and innocent
Cameron Diez - bright and fun!

What is your idea of earthly happiness?
The world living as ONE, LOVING not hating, having FAITH and HOPE for a better life, BELIEVING and being intimate with the HIGHER POWER who created this beautiful world, being THANKFUL, being UNITED as we should be, as it was DESIGNED to be......UNITED STATES!

Profile by Ronda Carman