Ethos

We focus on creating spaces that support our clients' daily needs.

Every element in a home should work together to support how you live and connect.

Our approach combines carefully chosen materials and fixtures that enhance the space and create comfort. By laying a strong foundation, we build environments that are both beautiful and meaningful for daily life.

We draw inspirations from the mid-century and modernist eras, northern California and the west coast as a whole, natural/ organic materials, and pieces that resonate with your soul.

Our aesthetic can be described as: heritage-inspired, warm modernism, or modern folk. We look to materials that mirror nature and source domestically whenever possible.

As a woman-owned firm, we serve as advocates and allies for equal rights, contributing 5% of all advisory services to organizations supporting women’s rights and the LGBTQIA community.

Schedule an Advisory Session with Kate…

Our scheduling platform offers you the opportunity to book an intro call with Kate to chat through the scope of your project.

Ready to go? Check out our list of service options…

  • Our 1:1 advisory sessions are a great opportunity to explore your project! We also offer a complimentary into call if you’re unsure of what’s right for you.

  • Our Calendly booking offers you the opportunity to schedule an intro call, 60 to 90 minute advisory session, or several of our scope of work services.

  • Our 1:1 and Scope of Work sessions work off a designed roadmap aimed at the key pain-points of new constructions and/ or renovations. These services are client driven through our scheduling portal.

    For those looking for more tailored services, we recommend an advisory session to kick off the project and build out our specific scope of work.

  • Our Advisory and Scope of Work service pricing is listed with the description when scheduling and start at $325.00.

    Custom and full-service projects are tailored to your needs and can be reviewed in an into or advisory call.

Kate Smith | founder + principal designer

I grew up in the outside of Chicago, watching my grandfather and 2 uncles (all architects) push boundaries in their respective practices. From a young age, I had a passion for how spaces were designed and the details and touchpoints involved.

I spent years working on my own homes and helping friends while simultaneously growing a 15-year career in luxury hotels.

In 2020, we pivoted into practicing full-time and the idea of k.smith | x was cemented. And what is the X? It’s our variable… our focus, our partners, our collaborative vision. Since 2017, we’ve completed 15 new construction residences, over a dozen renovations, and countless advisory sessions. I live for a renovation, can’t imagine what things would look like without our advisory client services, and am always on the hunt for the next great tile…

Outside of the studio, you can find me with a coffee, plotting our next road trip, hiking, or searching for the illusive Lamino chair (iykyk).

I reside in the Svart Hus in Door County with my husband Scott and our 9-year-old daughter, Harper.

Awards + Recognition

k.smith | x’s work is featured in numerous print and digital publications.

Recent honors include:

Architectural Digest Pro Directory | 2024, 2025

Builder Magazine GRAND Award | 2023

Architizer A+ Awards Finalist | 2023

k.smith | x is a female founded LLC, licensed dwelling contractor based in WI, operating nationwide.