The Design Behind The Studio at K|D

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The Design Behind The Studio at K|D

The driving force behind The Studio at K|D is founder and owner, Julia Kirkendall of Kirkendall Design. Since design is the backbone of our company, it was an exciting endeavor for Julia and the K|D design team to transform our commercial building into a high-end, versatile event space. Follow along as we take you behind the scenes of the transformation and design choices that brought The Studio at K|D to life.

Lighting Design

One of the design goals was to transition the space, with its functional 8’ fluorescent commercial lights, to a more warm, inviting atmosphere. Julia drew inspiration from her travels, particularly boutique hotels that used lighting in unique ways. We added lighting in unexpected ways and places, such as above windows and flanking office walls. Many of the selections act as a showroom for the lighting Kirkendall Design uses in clients’ spaces.

Our favorite feature, however, is the reclaimed pendant lighting sourced from a church that was being remodeled. This lighting, with its cathedral-like grandeur, subtly nods to Kirkendall Design’s core values while also illuminating the high ceilings of The Studio.

 

Kitchen lighting at The Studio at K|D, interactive event space designed by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa OK
Commercial office design atThe Studio at K|D, interactive event space designed by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa OK

The Fireplace

We wanted to bring a touch of home into the space without resorting to traditional brick fireplaces. So, the plain wall with the previous owner’s checkout counter was transformed with a simple yet striking fireplace design. It serves as a welcoming focal point, and its Roman clay face and black leather granite hearth are designed to withstand high commercial traffic. It also serves as a beautiful backdrop for our signature events and photographer shoots.

Roman clay fireplace in The Studio at K|D, interactive event space designed by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa OK
Roman clay fireplace in The Studio at K|D, interactive event space designed by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa OK

Custom Shelves and Multi-Purpose Design

To elevate our corridor’s visual appeal, we added large-scale custom shelves that feature Kirkendall Design’s signature trim detail. A nod to their 30 years of timeless design, the geometric designed shelves also serve as a dynamic display for lamps, vases, and accessories. Furthermore, The Studio at K|D photographer members can use them as backdrops for high-end product photography.

Custom built in shelves at The Studio at K|D, interactive event space designed by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa OK
Custom built in shelves at The Studio at K|D, interactive event space designed by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa OK

Kitchen & Bar Transformation

The existing kitchen and bar underwent a major transformation to merge form and function seamlessly. Visible appliances were concealed with a cleverly designed wing wall, and residential elements like a sink, quartz countertops, and a chic tile backsplash breathed new life into the space. Now it’s a beautiful area that serves our signature events and workshop clients well by providing a full prep kitchen and bar for a variety of needs.

Prep kitchen and bar The Studio at K|D, interactive event space designed by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa OK
Prep kitchen and bar The Studio at K|D, interactive event space designed by Kirkendall Design in Tulsa OK

Additional Design Touches

The Studio at K|D is brimming with thoughtful details. One of the bathrooms was re-located to make space for an additional office.  The footprint upstairs was expanded to create a design loft, now housing Kirkendall’s designers and their extensive materials library.

To counterbalance the predominantly white walls, a touch of warmth was added to the space by covering two feature walls with maple paneling. The accent wall not only discreetly conceals the rear exit entry but also provides an additional canvas for photo shoots.

Lastly, the existing tunnel-like staircase received a modern makeover, featuring a sleek glass railing and white oak wood treads.

The Essence of The Studio at K|D

In essence, The Studio at K|D isn’t just an event space; it’s a beautiful reflection of Kirkendall Design and their unwavering commitment to deliver luxury commercial and residential interior design. A once-industrial setting has been transformed into a high-end, versatile space equipped to inspire people to live fuller, well-designed lives.

If you’re a business owner seeking a unique and inspiring environment for your corporate events or functions in 2024, email us at hello@thestudioatkd.com for more information.

If you’re a business owner in need of commercial design services, we would love to connect you with Kirkendall Design. You can submit a design request here.