Bringing a fresh perspective to the design industry, Kayley Jane Olson and Stephanie Ang are the dynamic duo behind Kayley Jane Design. They strive to gain a clear understanding of clients' lifestyles and interests and use that information to create an inspiring yet functional interior. Their work is fueled by the belief that your home should be a reflection of who you are and what you love. Recently, we caught up with Kayley and Stephanie to learn more about their approach to design!

Last month Kayley Jane Design turned 2! How did you get started in the industry and what inspired you to become an interior designer?

I’ve been intrigued by interior design & art from a very young age. I love how the way a space is designed can dictate the way you feel and behave in that space. I decided to shift gears from my psychology degree and go back to school for interior design because design is fun for me, and I wanted a career that I knew I would enjoy. I was lucky enough to meet a few developers early on that helped kick-start my business.

How would you describe your design aesthetic and where do you find inspiration?

Our design aesthetic is transitional – we like to mix more modern elements with the occasional vintage piece to create a timeless look. I also try to use the surrounding elements of a site to draw inspiration. Often my colour schemes will be earthy and inspired by nature.

"Collaboration is an essential part of the work that we do, not only amongst interior designers but with our architects, builders & suppliers."

Where do you look for inspiration?

Nature mostly I would say! I almost always look for the palate that you look out at from my clients’ homes, and I build my designs based on that. If I am in an urban environment, sometimes I’ll turn to fashion trends. I find the colours, prints, and layers in fashion have an undeniable relationship with interior design.

You are known to have said, “the best ideas come about when you put a few minds together.” How does collaboration play a role in your design process?

Collaboration is an essential part of the work that we do, not only amongst interior designers but with our architects, builders & suppliers. Stephanie and I bounce ideas back and forth all day, and I definitely couldn’t do half of what I do without her! Gathering ideas from a few different perspectives allows us to be sure we’ve come to the right design decision aesthetically, and functionally.

Your designs are so warm and inviting, what do you feel are the essential elements that turn a house into a home?

A home breathes comfort and livability but personal touches are what transform a house into a home. We like to get to know our clients on a personal level so we can incorporate the things they love into their designs. Whether that be an artwork that resembles their lifestyle, or artifacts from places that mean something to them.

"We like to get to know our clients on a personal level so we can incorporate the things they love into their designs."

When you first meet with new clients, what types of conversations do you like to have before diving into the design work?

Our initial meetings are spent getting to know our clients’ lifestyles: the way they live, what their day-to-day routines look like, and what they love to do most. Then we dive into their personal style and mesh the two together.

What’s your favourite thing about being part of the new design community in Vancouver?

There are so many talented designers in this city, and I’m so glad to have met other young designers that have quickly become my friends. It’s inspiring to see so many other designers flourishing in this city, and as one of the most sought-after places to live in the world, there’s room for all of us to succeed here!

"...It’s inspiring to see so many other designers flourishing in this city, and as one of the most sought-after places to live in the world, there’s room for all of us to succeed here!"

Is there anything you’re really excited about in the industry right now? What can we look forward to seeing from Kayley Jane Design?

I get excited when suppliers release new products - lighting being my favourite! I’m seeing a lot of light fixtures in plaster and other textured materials right now and I can’t wait to incorporate those into a project. We have a number of new builds starting in 2023, and although most of our work is residential, we also have a few commercial projects in the works. The one I’m most excited to share is the restaurant we’ve been working on! Having worked in hospitality for over a decade before getting into interior design, it has always been a dream of mine to design a restaurant. This one is vibrant and eye-catching. In the commercial design industry, you can get playful and utilize bold materials that may not suit a residential application, so it’s been a fun one.

What are a few of your favourite pieces at CF Interiors right now?

Lately, I’ve been loving everything Palecek! The organic look of their pieces gives off such a relaxing feel. The Camilla coffee table is like a piece of art. My go-to for lighting at the moment has to be Generation, they just released some new fixtures and my favourite is the Cornet Chandelier - stunning use of plaster. And we can’t forget Four Hands, they always have the best selection of chairs - the Lyla looks so cozy!