Easton, Md. — Business Owner and Principal Designer Krista Shugars, of Pasadena, MD, was named Designer of the Year, the highest design award presented by Decorating Den Interiors, North America’s largest interior design and home furnishings franchise company. Shugars operates KD Designs Custom Interiors serving the Anne Arundel, Howard and Baltimore County areas.
Her transformation of a living room in an historic home built circa 1880 was judged best in category and the overall best of 298 entries in 12 categories by interior design journalists from throughout the U.S. and Canada. The resulting space “seamlessly blends historic charm with modern, eclectic flair. Vibrant elements, from a colorful wool area rug to custom upholstery and a sparkling crystal chandelier, create a breathtaking atmosphere with multiple seating areas. Ten-foot windows are adorned with fuchsia silk taffeta panels, while a baby-grand Steinway piano and captivating artwork add elegance and cohesion,” Shugars explains.
“I am thrilled to win this honor,” said Shugars, “Being Designer of the Year and also winning four other design awards is beyond gratifying. This is a wonderful way to celebrate our hard work and dedication to doing what we love while serving our amazing clients.”
The media judges also selected Shugars for these other awards:
Kitchen First Place for a “vibrant kitchen remodel with historical elements blended in a modern, elegant way. Soft teal walls and cabinets provide a fresh backdrop, enhanced by botanical and paisley patterns in blues and greens. Brass accents highlight the farmhouse sink and exposed hinges, while a mother-of-pearl backsplash adds a shimmering touch to this updated culinary space.”
Bedroom Second Place: “Soft pinks and teal create a charming backdrop for this feminine bedroom transformation. The bed alcove becomes ample storage with a built-in closet system. The custom upholstered bed features a scalloped headboard in an embroidered floral fabric. Additional seating includes a fun, furry bench, and curvy swivel chair. Pink and ivory hues adorn the textures in the soft area rug and textured window coverings.”
Living Room, Third Place: “The seamless blend of historic charm, modern, eclectic elements, a Grecian motif and the vibrant peacock-inspired palette creates a uniquely inviting haven of comfort. From a pair of rich teal curved sofas to animal print seating and whimsical side tables, every detail resonates with the client’s love for color. It’s a room that captivates, providing a perfect blend of heritage and contemporary allure.”
Shugars’ first place living room also won the Donayre Award, which is voted on by company franchisees and is named for Carol Donayre Bugg, ASID, retired company vice president and director of design. Shugars was also selected this year to join the group of franchisees that form the company’s advisory Leadership Council.
This was the company’s 40th International Dream Room awards presentation. It was held at the company’s recent TUNE IN TO SUCCESS 2024 annual conference in Nashville.
KD Designs Custom Interiors proudly serves Anne Arundel County, Howard County, Baltimore County and surrounding areas.
