Christy Dillard Kratzer, Principal Designer and President of CDK Interior Design, doesn’t like to box her style into categories. While she incorporates traditional, transitional, and modern elements, she believes such labels can limit creativity. “My approach is best described as edited, uncluttered, and airy,” she explains. “I take cues from the house itself, blending the homeowners’ goals with what works for the house to achieve maximum functionality.”
With more than 20 years of experience in Atlanta, Christy’s work spans from full home renovations to smaller refreshes of select spaces. She recently designed two custom-built homes simultaneously for the same client who wanted a completely different aesthetic for each home. Christy embraced this challenge with great success, which is a testament to her adaptability and creativity.
Christy’s design process starts with a thorough introduction, where she gets to know her clients’ needs, timelines, and goals. From there, she develops a cohesive vision for the entire project, from architecture to finishes. “I aim to create spaces that reflect my clients’ lives while blending aesthetics and function,” she says.
She also emphasizes flexibility in the design process, noting that it may take unexpected turns. “Everything comes together when the last layers are applied, resulting in an ‘ah-ha” moment,” she says. Christy draws inspiration from the art of creating memorable experiences, comparing her designs to well-planned meals, where every detail comes together for a perfect balance.
Her designs often feature antiques and vintage pieces, combining eco-consciousness with timeless elegance. Inspired by neoclassical and classical revival architecture, she incorporates natural materials with refined simplicity in her work.
Looking ahead, Christy sees a future where high-tech storage and advanced appliances redefine spaces such as laundry rooms, and outdoor living areas become more elaborate with year-round kitchens and four-season fabrics. Her favorite design space? The powder bathroom, where bold statement pieces can shine without overwhelming the budget.
Christy’s strategic, thoughtful approach ensures that every project is unique, functional, and memorable.
