Unveiling the Creative Visionary: Katherine, Head of Interior Design at Barker/Nestor

At Barker/Nestor, creativity knows no bounds, and our team is a testament to that ethos. We sat down with the extraordinary Katherine, the Head of Interior Design at our esteemed firm, to delve into her remarkable journey that has shaped her into the visionary designer she is today.

Katherine’s path into the world of interior design is as unique as her creative flair. Harking back to the early ’90s, she embarked on her professional voyage in downtown Chicago, crafting captivating window displays for the iconic Marshall Fields. Little did she know that this seemingly unrelated role would sow the seeds for her flourishing career in interior design.

Drawing parallels between the art of window displays and the ambiance restaurants sought to create, Katherine identified a niche waiting to be explored. She recognized the power of art, plants, artifacts, upholstery, and more in elevating spaces to offer guests an unparalleled experience—an insight that would become the cornerstone of her design philosophy.

Venturing into the realm of interior design as a freelancer, Katherine honed her craft through years of diverse projects, each imbued with her distinctive touch. Her charisma, individuality, and keen eye for design shone through in every endeavor, earning her a reputation as a maven in the industry.

It was fate that brought Katherine together with Ryan Nestor, a kindred spirit with a shared passion for pushing boundaries and redefining the conventional. Their partnership blossomed organically, culminating in Katherine joining the Barker/Nestor family full-time—a union that continues to inspire and invigorate our creative pursuits.

Katherine’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of following one’s intuition and embracing the unexpected. Her unconventional path has not only shaped her design sensibilities but has also enriched our designs at Barker/Nestor, infusing our projects with a unique blend of innovation and artistry.

As we look to the future, inspired by Katherine’s unwavering spirit and creative vision, we are reminded that true brilliance knows no bounds. With her at the helm, the possibilities are endless, and the landscapes of design are ours to reimagine.

Join us in celebrating Katherine, the heart and soul of our design ethos, as we continue to chart new horizons and redefine the boundaries of creativity at Barker/Nestor. Check out her interviews on our socials @barkernestor.