Next Stop: KMD Antiques & Design Atelier
Author:Lindsey ShookBay Area designer Kari McIntosh is celebrated for her vibrantly hued spaces curated with some of the most unique antiques and artistic rarities. Now, the designer is sharing her skill for the hunt with the opening of the KMD Antiques & Design Atelier, a treasure chest nestled in downtown Burlingame. The Atelier features a rotating installation of antiques, art and accessories set against deep caviar colored walls and gold leafing by local decorative artist, Caroline Lizarraga. The collection features storage, seating and tabletop selections from recent buying trips as well as estate discoveries and treasures assembled over a lifetime. Styling elements include Assouline books, Trudon candles, and marbleized accessories from Shandell’s. We spoke with McIntosh about what inspired the new venture and how it complements her burgeoning design business.
-What defining moment inspired you to open KMD Antiques & Design? Opening my own antiques atelier is an idea that I have kicked around for quite some time. I was also looking for a new studio space for my design firm. I knew that I wanted to be in Burlingame’s charming downtown district and I had my eye open for vacancies all during Covid. After my father passed away in June, I was overwhelmed with the feeling that life is too short and I was feeling restless by putting life “on hold” during the pandemic. Once I saw the space at 275 Primrose in September, I was attracted to the nostalgia of the location, the natural light and the flexibility of the floorpan. That was the moment I knew I couldn’t postpone this natural progression in my life and career any longer.
–How is it a reflection of your design aesthetic? The atelier is very eclectic, moody, mysterious and ever-changing with a mix of special storage pieces, patinated leather seating, unusual/unique accessory items and colorful lighting. All elements that I incorporate into each of my projects.
-In your own words, please describe what separates the atelier apart from other galleries? The atelier is meant to be a curated, evolving collection with a distinct concept to each installation that changes on a quarterly basis. KMD is not your typical antique store that is chock-full to the rafters. Our displays and inventory are discerningly focused. The overall presentation is an edited point of view.
–What should the local design community know about the pieces that they might find at KMD? Each item has a story and is selected through my design lens to blend with today’s modern living. Incorporating antiques is a sustainable, earth-friendly choice for clients and everything I offer is in stock and ready for placement now—a major benefit with the current supply chain issues.
–How does the atelier complement your work? It’s a fulfilling outlet for me. Most design projects are 1-2 years in the making and putting together the atelier’s installations are a much faster turnaround. Ideas for installations flow organically and exercise my creative muscle. Each collection is like a mini showcase released to the universe.
–Can you share anything new that is on the horizon for KMD? We have so many exciting things ahead in 2022. We are planning a “Spring Fling” opening event around Spring Solstice. One of my longest planned projects that was paused during Covid recently broke ground in Mill Valley—a Classic Tudor Remodel with Jeff King & Co and David Armour Architecture. We are also in the early design stages of a Carmel coastal retreat with Forma Construction and Feldman Architecture. It’s an inspiring time to be apart of the design world.
